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Irish Terrier Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Irish Terrier so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Hunting Dogs
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Irish Terrier dog profile picture
OriginIreland flagIreland
Other Names
What other names does the Irish Terrier have?
DaredevilIrish Red Terrier
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Irish Terrier Size and Weight

Size
Is an Irish Terrier small, medium or large dog?

How big do Irish Terrier get?

What is the average size of an Irish Terrier?

Medium
Weight
How much does the Irish Terrier weigh? How much should an Irish Terrier weight? What is the normal weight of an Irish Terrier? How much does a full-grown Irish Terrier weight?
25-27 pounds (11-12 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of an Irish Terrier?
26 pounds (11.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Irish Terrier? Irish Terrier height:
18 inches (43 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of an Irish Terrier?
18 inches (43 cm)

Irish Terrier Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Irish Terrier puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of an Irish Terrier in the United States? How much money is an Irish Terrier?

Where to buy an Irish Terrier with a good pedigree?

$600-$800
If you choose to purchase the Irish Terrier, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Irish Terrier for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Irish Terrier gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Irish Terrier? How many Irish Terrier are there in the world?
Frequent: The Irish Terrier is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed.

Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision.

Irish Terrier Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Irish Terrier? Is the Irish Terrier breed dumb or smart?
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Irish Terrier ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Irish Terrier dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train an Irish Terrier?
Irish Terrier dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Irish Terrier good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Irish Terrier dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Irish Terrier dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Irish Terrier dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Irish Terrier dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Irish Terrier can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Irish Terrier will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Irish Terrier Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Irish Terrier have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
ProtectiveIntelligentDominantLivelyTrainableRespectful
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Irish Terrier sensitivity:
Irish Terrier dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is an Irish Terrier a good family dog?
High: Irish Terrier dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Daredevil need? Irish Terrier social needs:
Irish Terrier dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Irish Terrier to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Irish Terrier roam?
Irish Terrier dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Irish Terrier have high prey drive?
Irish Terrier dogs have low to an average impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals.

Irish Terrier Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Irish Terrier is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Irish Terrier dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Daredevil bark?
Average: The Irish Terrier barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Irish Terrier good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have an Irish Terrier in an apartment?
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Irish Terrier indoors.

Irish Terrier Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Irish Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can an Irish Terrier be left alone? How long can you leave an Irish Terrier alone?
Irish Terrier dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Irish Terrier Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Irish Terrier has a hard bite? What is the bite force of an Irish Terrier? How much bite force does an Irish Terrier have? How strong is an Irish Terrier bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Irish Terrier bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Irish Terrier measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of an Irish Terrier is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Irish Terrier bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Irish Terrier bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train an Irish Terrier puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Irish Terrier, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Irish Terrier bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, an Irish Terrier can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Irish Terrier bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Daredevil? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Irish Terrier? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Irish Terrier has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Irish Terrier do?
Irish Terrier dogs have a low tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Irish Terrier dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Irish Terrier Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Irish Terrier dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Irish Terriers tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Irish Terrier breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Irish Terrier see the vet?
Frequent
The Irish Terrier should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Irish Terrier dogs live? How old can a Irish Terrier be? What is the age limit of the Irish Terrier? How many years can the oldest Irish Terrier live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of an Irish Terrier?

How long is the lifespan of an Irish Terrier?

11-15 years
The average lifespan of Irish Terrier: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Irish Terrier can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.

Irish Terrier Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Irish Terrier have? What is the activity level of the Irish Terrier?
Irish Terrier dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does an Irish Terrier need? How much exercise do Irish Terrier dogs require per day?

Do Irish Terrier dogs need a lot of exercises?

Irish Terrier dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Irish Terrier breed need?
Irish Terrier dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Irish Terrier Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does an Irish Terrier need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does an Irish Terrier breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Irish Terrier? How much food should I feed my Irish Terrier?
1 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Irish Terrier risk for obesity:
Average: The Irish Terrier has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Irish Terrier weight regularly.

Irish Terrier Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Irish Terrier have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
WiryStraight
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Irish Terrier coats?
Red Wheaten
Grooming
How to groom the Irish Terrier and how often? How often should I take my Irish Terrier to the groomer?
Advanced: The Irish Terrier requires a lot of grooming. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer can be helpful sometimes.

Regular brushed dog's coat is less likely to shed. Ears and eyes should be cleaned often to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Occasional dog nail trimming and dog baths are important.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and to give your Irish Terrier a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Irish Terrier, search for the best dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.
Shedding Level
How much do Irish Terrier dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Daredevil? Do Irish Terrier dogs shed a lot?
Irish Terrier dogs shed none to minimal. Having a puppy from this breed you don't have to be afraid of your couch or car being covered by dog hair. Irish Terrier dogs could be the best choice if you don't tolerate dog hair.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Irish Terrier need a bath? How often should you give an Irish Terrier a bath? Can I bathe my Irish Terrier every day?
8-12 weeks
Very rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

For example, short-haired dog breeds can go a very long time in between baths. These short-haired breeds shed regularly and that shedding works to naturally remove excess dirt and oil. So unless your weenie dog got into the garbage can, you can probably hold off on a bath for a while.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Irish Terrier breed hypoallergenic?
Yes
Irish Terrier dogs do well with allergy sufferers by causing fewer allergic reaction. However there are no 100% hypoallergenic dogs in the world, there are a variety of breeds that are considered to reduce or minimize the possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Irish Terrier has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Irish Terrier drool?
The Irish Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Irish Terrier could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Irish Terrier.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Irish Terrier Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Irish Terrier dogs get along with other pets? Are Irish Terrier dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Irish Terrier dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Irish Terrier temperament with other people:
Irish Terrier dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Irish Terrier dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Irish Terrier temperament with children:
Irish Terrier dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Irish Terrier dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Irish Terrier breed live with a cat?
Irish Terrier dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Irish Terrier good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Irish Terrier dogs get along with other dogs?
Irish Terrier dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Irish Terrier is not a good choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Irish Terrier breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Irish Terrier breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Irish Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Irish Terrier dogs good office canines? Do Irish Terrier dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Irish Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Irish Terrier dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Daredevil temperament with senior people? Are Irish Terrier dogs good for elderly owners?
Irish Terriers are usually recommended for elderly people.

Irish Terrier As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Irish Terrier be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Irish Terrier is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Irish Terrier be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Irish Terrier be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Irish Terrier is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Irish Terrier be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Irish Terrier is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Irish Terrier be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Irish Terrier is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Irish Terrier be a boat dog?

Not really

Irish Terrier breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Irish Terrier be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Irish Terrier is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Irish Terrier dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Irish Terrier Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is an Irish Terrier pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Irish Terrier breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Irish Terrier: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Irish Terrier have in a litter? How many puppies can the Irish Terrier breed have for the first time? How many puppies does an Irish Terrier have? How many puppies can an Irish Terrier give birth to?
4-6 puppies

Irish Terrier Recognition

AKC Group
Is Irish Terrier recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885 as a Terrier breed.
FCI Group
Is Irish Terrier recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Terriers group, in the Large and medium sized Terriers section.

Irish Terrier Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Hypoallergenic: Irish Terrier dogs do well with allergy sufferers by causing fewer allergic reaction.
  • Shedding Level: Irish Terrier dogs shed none to minimal.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Irish Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Ability: Irish Terrier dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Mouthiness: Irish Terrier dogs have a low tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
  • Adaptability: Irish Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Irish Terrier dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Irish Terriers are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Irish Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Health Issues: Irish Terriers tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Grooming: Advanced: The Irish Terrier requires a lot of grooming.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Irish Terrier dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Cat Friendly: Irish Terrier dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Irish Terrier dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Irish Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Rate The Irish Terrier Breed

Irish Terrier Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Finnegan

    Feb 23, 2021, 1:32:33 AM:

    Good Boy