Irish Terrier

Description: The Irish Terrier, or Irish Red Terrier, is sturdy, strong in substance and bone structure, and free from clumsiness. Speed, power, endurance are essential. They are neither cobby, nor cloddy, and should be built on lines of speed with a graceful, racing outline. Irish Terriers make excellent companions whether they are playmates, hikers, watchdogs or just footwarmers. Loyal to every member of the family, they are a top-notch terrier known for their fighting spirit.

Other Names: Irish Red Terrier

Type: Terrier

Height: 18 – 19 inches Weight: 25 – 27 lbs.

Colors: Whole-colored, preferably red, red wheaten, or yellow-red; small amount of white on chest acceptable; white on feet or any black shading highly undesirable. Coat: Harsh and wiry.

Temperament: Irish Terriers are determined, friendly With Children: Yes, loves to play with children. With Pets: Yes, but will not stand for other pets to dominate them. Special Skills: Hunting dog, watchdog and family pet.

Watch-dog: Very High Guard-dog: High

Care and Exercise: Regular brushing and combing will keep the coat of the Irish Terrier in top notch condition. The more they are groomed, the more beautiful the coat will be. Hand strip the coat twice a year. This will maintain the texture and color of their coat. Bathe only when necessary. Check ears, teeth and nails regularly. Exercise should consist of games with human contact, long walks on a leash and free run in a fenced yard. Training: Irish Terriers respond well to training, but require firm handling with consistent, tactful training. Learning Rate: High, Obedience – Low, Problem Solving – High

Activity: Indoors – Medium, Outdoors – High Living Environment: An apartment is adequate if sufficient exercise is given. Irish Terriers should not be left alone for long periods of time as they may bark incessantly or try to dig their way out of the yard. An owner of an Irish Terrier needs to be a confident leader who is willing to train this active breed who is both obstinate and sensitive.

Health Issues: Kidney or bladder stones, corns on the feet, hereditary urinary problems.

Life Span: 13 – 16 years Litter Size: 4 – 6

Country of Origin: Ireland History: Irish Terriers are possible the oldest of the terrier breeds to have come from Ireland. Not much has been documented of their past, but they were used as a working farm dog and guard dog in Ireland for centuries. During World War I, the Irish Terrier was used as a messenger dog in the trenches and acquired a reputation for being fearless and intelligent.

First Registered by the AKC: 1885 AKC Group: Terrier Group Class: Terrier Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 3), KC (GB), UKC