Irish Terrier

The Irish Terrier is a medium sized dog from the terrier breed. They have all the fun and playfulness of the terrier temperament, but are not quite as willful and stubborn as some terriers.

The Irish Terrier a a very active dog, and will need longer walks than the smaller terriers. This terrier is often described as 'racy', meaning powerful without being sturdy or heavy. They love to be challenged mentally and physically, and may enjoy some obedience and agility training. They have a good nose and can be trained to track blood or animal scents.

The Irish Terrier has a short, rough, wiry coat designed to keep out bad weather. The coat is generally a rusty, tan colour, although the coat may be wheaten, or have the odd patch of white. As the terrier gets older grey hairs appear too. Their tail is usually docked by the breeder in early puppyhood. They have dark brown eyes, and the fur above the eye gives the illusion of eyebrows.

The Irish Terrier grows to approx 50cm and weighs 11-15kg.

Often the Irish Terrier likes to be the dominant dog, which can cause problems with other dogs of the same sex. But they are generally friendly towards people and will even tolerate some rough handling from children.

Irish Terriers are excellent guard dogs with strong protective instincts. They generally need a good reason to bark.

History of Irish Terriers

Irish Terriers are from Ireland. They share a common family tree with the Wheaten terriers, Kerry Blue Terrier, Lakeland and Scottish Terrier. They were used by farmers to kill vermin.

Care of Irish Terriers

The wiry coat of the Irish Terrier needs minimal care. the owner needs to brush the coat weekly to remove dead hairs and dirt. The coat is not shed or molted as with some dog breeds. A trip to the groomers will be necessary every 3-4months to keep the coat tidy; the groomer will probably trim the toenails too.

Show dogs are often hand stripped.

Health of Irish Terriers

Irish Terriers are generally healthy and can live for about 14 years with proper care.

They may be prone to:-

• hip dysplasia
• hypothyroidism
• cataracts

The Irish Terrier makes an ideal dog for a pet, with average walks and minimal grooming required. Generally good tempered and fun to be around. It may take longer to master the training of a terrier, using wit rather than punishment, but its well worth the rewards.

'The farmer's friend and the gentleman's favourite.'