HomeDogIrish Terrier Dog: The Most Ancient Terrier Dog Breed of Ireland

Irish Terrier Dog: The Most Ancient Terrier Dog Breed of Ireland

The Irish Terrier is one of the ancient terrier breeds of dogs that originated in Ireland. The dog was first displayed in an Irish dog show in 1873 and became one of the fourth most popular dog breeds in Britain and Ireland by 1980. The dog is a very active, intelligent, and compact body. The dense coat of the dog breed protects the dog from any harsh climate.

History and Origin of Irish Terrier Dog


This is probably the oldest local terrier dog in Ireland. Bred to work small game retriever and will retrieve from both water and land. Iris Terriers was used for hunting big games, and it served as a military dog during World War 1. A dog of the working class, it was only at the turn of the twentieth century that the breed was standardized.

Origin of Irish Terrier

They are purebred dogs; some may still end up in the care of shelters or rescues. The dogs are super affectionate toward the humans in their lives in the home. The alternative name of the dogs is Iris Red Terrier and the country of origin of the breeds in Ireland.

Physical Description of Irish Terrier


Iris Terrier is a medium-sized dog that is powerful but agile. Its head is long, and the skull is flat and narrow and free of wrinkles. The skull and muzzle of the dogs are equal in length, and the jaw is strong. The small, dark brown eyes are often described as fierce. It has a black nose and small, V-shaped ears that are semi-erect, folding forward.

Physical Features of Irish Terrier

The tail is docked by about a quarter of its length and held high. The dog has a soft, fine undercoat and a wiry, broken, medium-short outer coat that fits close to the body. The face has a beard and whiskers. The coat can be bright red, golden red, red wheaten, or wheaten.

Height and Weight of Irish Terrier

Height and Weight and Life Span of Terrier of Ireland


Irish Terrier is a stylish dog breed, and his other nickname is Daredevil, a nod to his utter contempt for danger. The average height of 18 inches at the shoulder and weight is 25 to 27 pounds. The average life span of an Irish Terrier dog is 12 to 16 years.

Temperament of Ireland Terrier

Temperament and Behavior of Dog


This is a good-tempered, spirited dog that is affectionate and loyal to its family but fiery and courageous in the field. The dog is very protective, sometimes overprotective, making an excellent guard. It is somewhat challenging to train as it can be mischievous.

Terrier Dog of Ireland

Living and Special Needs of Irish Terrier Dog


  • The breeds as an early background was a family pet, hunter, and guardian
  • It needs to exercise for their physical and mental health. 
  • The dog’s unique needs to fenced yard, grooming, leash, socialization, and training.

Activity of Terrier of Ireland

Care and Nutrition of Irish Terrier Dog


Part of taking good care of Irish Terrier understands how his body works and what can go wrong. The skin and coat, ears, eyes, paws, and all the other components that make up a dog have a role in health and activity. 

Nutrition of Dog

To maintain good health, dogs need little more than just regular veterinary care and management. They also need to be groomed daily and provided with adequate nutrition. Grooming keeps your dog’s skin healthy, allows you to monitor your dog’s physical condition, health, and reduces the occurrence of external insects.

Good nutrition keeps dogs’ bodies in motion, reduces disease risk, and maintains a dog’s vital organs. Whether you use professional groomers, feed an organic or raw food diet, or maintain healthy daily grooming and nutritional regimens, you’re contributing to your dog’s health and well-being. 

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