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Irish terrier

The Irish Terrier is one of the oldest terrier breeds, standardised in Ireland in the nineteenth century, and it is always solid red — wheaten, golden or bright red.

It served as a messenger and sentry dog in the First World War, where it was noted for its steadiness under fire.

It stands 46 to 48 centimetres, weighs 11 to 12 kilograms and lives thirteen to fifteen years, with a harsh wiry coat. Its nickname is the daredevil, which captures it: bold, reckless, affectionate with people and famously willing to fight other dogs. It carries two breed-specific conditions with DNA tests, which is unusual and useful.

Origin
Ireland; one of the oldest terrier breeds
Size
46–48 cm; 11–12 kg
Lifespan
13–15 years
Coat
Harsh and wiry, always solid red; hand-stripped
Temperament
Bold and affectionate with people; often dog-aggressive
Health
Footpad hyperkeratosis and cystinuria — both DNA testable

Related: Airedale terrier · American hairless terrier · American pit bull terrier · American Staffordshire terrier · Australian terrier

2 irish terrier photos, newest first

Irish terrier feed
  • Barley, a irish terrier

    Barley

    Barley was promoted to botanist studying an absurdly large houseplant; unfortunately, one toy suitcase circles endlessly.

    FrostyOtter · 1 week ago

  • Barley, a irish terrier

    Barley

    This is Barley pretending not to have been on the sofa.

    SunnyHeron · 2 weeks ago

Living with a irish terrier

Ask for the footpad hyperkeratosis DNA test. Affected dogs develop hard, cracked, painful pads from a few months old; it is recessive, breed-specific and testable. Ask about cystinuria too, which causes bladder stones and also has a test.

Dog aggression is real in this breed. They are good with people and frequently intolerant of other dogs, particularly of the same sex, and that needs managing rather than wishing away.

The wiry coat needs hand-stripping two or three times a year plus weekly brushing; clipping softens and fades it.

They need real exercise and are excellent at dog sports.

Prey drive is high. Secure fencing and reliable lead work.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. Individual dogs vary, and anything about a specific animal is a question for a vet who has seen it.

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