Irish Terrier

  • Dog Breed Group: Terrier Dogs

  • Recommended for: Families, Singles

  • Maintenance Level: Low-Medium

  • Life Span: 12-15 years

  • Height: 40-46 cm

  • Weight: 10-12 kg

  • Temperament: Lively, Gentle

  • Hypoallergenic: Yes

  • Colors: Bright red, golden red, red wheaten, solid wheaten
Adaptability
Friendliness
General Health
Trainability
Exercise Needs

Irish Terrier Breed Overview

The Irish terrier is a medium sized dog and considered as one of the oldest breeds of terrier. They have a handsome beard and in the same time, they are adaptable and active, suitable for both lives in the city or in the country.

Irish Terriers have small ears and medium tail. The outer coat is dense, short and wiry, while the undercoat is lighter and softer. This particular double coat protects them from harsh weather and water. You can easily groom it because it sheds only a little. There are different colours available such as golden red, bright red, solid red and much more.

They are born with white chest patch but change colour when they age.

Irish terrier can reach up to 46 cm in height and 12 kg in weight.

The life expectancy is approximately 15 years.

  • Suitability for Children –Medium
  • Tendency to Bark – High
  • Energy – High
  • Suitability as a Guard Dog – High
  • Grooming Requirements –  Once a Week
  • Amount of hair shed –  Little
  • Food Cost –  $10 to $15
  • Average Monthly Pet insurance Premium – $58
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Origins of Irish terrier

Irish terrier is one of the oldest terriers that descended from Black and Tan Terrier and larger wheat terriers. They were recognized as a breed in the end of 19th century. Irish terrier was the one that changed the ear cropping routine in Britain.

During the World War I, they were used as guard dogs and messengers, achieving numerous awards for courage.

Irish Terrier Temperament

Irish Terriers are brave, intelligent and lively dogs that enjoy training with authoritative and firm pack leader. They are also entertaining and gentle when with families. There are some legends that say that Irish Terriers were made only for children because of energy and size that is suited for children. However, they don’t get well with stranger dogs, especially of the same sex. You have to socialize them early, in order to prevent further aggression.

Common Irish terrier Conditions and Diseases

Bladder Stones – Irish terrier can experience bladder stones that could cause bloody urine, painful urination, and foul-smelling urine. They can pass smaller stones by themselves, but you should still see a vet in order to determine the level of problem. Don’t forget to get Pet Insurance for your Irish terrier because that way you can rest assured for additional expenses to vet.

Interesting Facts

  • Irish Terriers enjoy digging holes in search for rodents and moles, so you have to watch them closely
  • The Irish terrier was the most popular dog breed in the United States between two world wars.

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