Irish Terrier — breed guide
The "daredevil" — a red Irish terrier with an old reputation for reckless courage and a complete lack of patience for other dogs.
At a glance
- Group
- terrier
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 11–12 kg (24–26 lb)
- Life span
- 13–15 years
- Coat
- Hard, wiry red jacket
Living with a Irish Terrier
- High energy — needs real exercise every day, not a stroll.
- Regular grooming — brushing a few times a week.
- Barely sheds.
- Quick to learn.
- Barks readily.
- Good with children.
- Not always easy with other dogs — introduce carefully.
- Not a safe bet with cats — this is prey drive rather than a training problem.
- Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
- Better with previous experience behind you.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Handles cold well.
Temperament
Daring · Loyal · Hot-headed · Tender with family
Health to watch
- Hyperkeratosis
- Cystinuria
- Hypothyroidism
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Irish Terrier good with kids?
Generally yes. Irish Terriers are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Irish Terrier good with cats?
Usually not. This is prey drive rather than a training problem — a cat that runs can trigger it in a dog that is otherwise impeccably behaved.
How much exercise does a Irish Terrier need?
An hour or more of proper exercise every day.
Can a Irish Terrier handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a Irish Terrier's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.