Irish Terrier

Dog Breed Profile

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Irish Terrier History

The Irish Terrier is a breed of small terrier that originated in Ireland. The ancestors of the Irish Terrier include the Scottish, English, and Continental shorthaired terriers. The Irish were the first people to selectively develop the Irish Terrier for show. The first recorded Irish Terrier was exhibited at the Royal Dublin Society Show in 1870. The Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1878. The coat colouring is black and tan, and the nickname “tanner” is a reference to the traditional practice of using an Irish terrier as a rabbit hunter.

Time of Origin

1700s

Country of Origin

Ireland

Ancestry

English White Terrier, Irish Wolfhound

Irish Terrier Physical Characteristics

The Irish Terrier is a small, long-haired breed of terrier that is typically between 12 and 16 inches at the shoulders and weights between 15 and 25 pounds. They have a thick, deep, fine, and harsh coat of any color and a dense, bushy tail. They have a large, round head with a prominent nose and wide eyes.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 17 – 18 inches

Female Height Range: 16 – 18 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 25 – 27 lbs

Female Weight Range: 24 – 26 lbs

Irish Terrier Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

12-15 yrs

Irish Terrier Health Concerns

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Urolithiasis Irish Terrier, Hypothyroidism, Degenerative Myelopathy, Hyperkeratosis

Irish Terrier Temperament and Behaviour

The Irish Terrier is a bold, spirited, lively, and energetic terrier. They are playful, curious, and outgoing, but are also brave and protective. They are loving and devoted with their owners, but can be a bit aggressive with other dogs. They also tend to be vocal, with some barking and whining.

Irish Terrier Activity Requirements

Irish Terriers are small, sturdy, and athletic. They are intelligent, fun-loving, and energetic, and they love to play. They are great with older children and are highly trainable. This small, compact dog will need regular exercise. They will do well in homes with yards, but they can also live in apartments and condos. Because Irish Terriers are so smart, they can even be trained to walk on a leash. If you are looking to adopt an Irish Terrier, be sure you are ready to meet their exercise requirements. They love to be active and will be happiest with a family that enjoys playing games and taking them on walks.

Miles Per Day

Unknown

Activity Per Day

Unknown

Daily Food

2.5 cups

Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club

Recognized by the American Kennel Club

Irish Terrier is part of the Terrier group.

Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club

Recognized by The Kennel Club

Irish Terrier is part of the Terrier group.

Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council

Recognized by the Australian National Kennel Council

Irish Terrier is part of the Terrier group.

Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club

Recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club

Irish Terrier is part of the Terrier group.

Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.