Irish Terrier
Complete Breed Guide
"I'm a daredevil!"
Quick Facts About Irish Terriers
Terrier
25–27 lbs
18–20"
Yes
Based on current listing prices on Puppies.com. Results may vary.
Overview
With a long head, folded ears, and a strong jawline, the Irish Terrier may look sweet on the outside, but their fierce and brave inside. These daring dogs love to chase animals, watch over their families, and go on adventures—especially sniffing out those sneaky squirrels in the backyard.
Irish Terriers are outgoing pups with an affinity for the mysterious. Their inquisitive instincts lead them to be curious explorers, but they also have a stubborn and bossy side. To keep them in check, Irish Terriers need an owner that is loving yet assertive. They’ll bond with their families (especially the children), but once in a while, their independence and destructiveness may take over. These high energy pups are far from calm lap dogs, but they’ll love you unconditionally and always keep you guessing.
Temperament and Behavior
Irish Terriers are high-energy and tenacious dogs. Their keen curiosity often takes them on exciting adventures and keeps them busy. The breed’s strong senses make these pups ideal watchdogs but also contribute to their hard-headed nature. However, with training, daily activities, and consistent routines, you can keep your Irish Terrier energized yet under control.
Coat & Grooming
Irish Terrier coats are typical of the terrier breeds. Their outer coat is tough, wiry, and thick, while their undercoats are soft and warm. Irish Terriers come in golden red, red wheaten, bright red, and plain wheaten, often with a small white patch on the chest. Their color may change throughout their lifetime, so it’s not uncommon to have a black puppy that turns red as it gets older.
Lifestyle & Living Conditions
Irish Terriers are not the easiest dogs to care for. They tend to take charge, so in order to prevent aggression, it’s important for their families to override that instinct with training and socialization. Irish Terriers don’t co-exist well with other animals, especially those that are smaller than them. They can get along well with kids as long as they’ve been trained, but keep an eye on them around strangers. Being a true member of the family is especially important for Irish Terriers and will make them easier to live with in the long run.
Exercise & Activity
Irish Terriers are high maintenance when it comes to activity. As a working breed, they need to be busy to stay out of trouble. Long walks, outside playtime, and training will help keep them calm and well behaved. Being assertive and identifying yourself as the pack leader is particularly helpful when training Irish Terriers to be obedient, loving dogs.
Characteristics at-a-glance
Ratings are on a scale of 1–10, based on breed standards and typical temperament.
Irish Terrier FAQs
Common questions about the Irish Terrier breed, answered by our editorial team.
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