Irish Terrier
Also known as Terrier Irlandais · Irischer Terrier · Terrier Irlandés
Ireland, Large and medium sized Terriers
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 44–48 cm
- Weight
- 11–13 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Bold
- Loyal
- Spirited
- Energetic
- Determined
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Irish Terrier
The Irish Terrier is one of the older terrier breeds of Ireland, used as a farm dog, vermin hunter and guard. It is a medium-sized, wiry, athletic dog with a dense rough coat in a solid red to wheaten shade and a long head with a bearded muzzle. It is slightly racy in outline compared with many other terriers.
Temperament
Bold, loyal and spirited, with plenty of courage. Devoted to its family but can be dominant or scrappy with other dogs, particularly of the same sex. It needs firm, patient, reward-based training and early socialisation.
Exercise
Needs about an hour or more of daily exercise, with games and mental challenge. Keep it on a lead or in secure areas as it may chase small animals.
Grooming
Harsh, wiry coat that benefits from regular brushing and periodic hand-stripping or professional grooming to keep its texture and shape.
Care & wellbeing
Secure fencing matters, as this terrier is a capable digger and escape artist. Keep up dental care, nail trims and routine vet checks.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 12 kg adult- Water
- 480 ml–720 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 720 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Irish Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
One of the older Irish terrier types, used as a versatile farm and sporting dog for vermin, as a messenger and as a guard. Its dense wiry red coat and bold, spirited nature were fixed as the breed was formalised in Ireland.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Cystinuria
- Hyperkeratosis of the footpads
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- DNA test for cystinuria
- Eye tests
Not every Irish Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Irish Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Irish Terrier get?
Adult Irish Terriers typically stand about 44–48 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 11–13 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Irish Terriers live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Irish Terrier need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Irish Terrier need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Irish Terriers easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Irish Terriers shed?
Very little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Irish Terriers good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Irish Terrier live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Irish Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to cystinuria, hyperkeratosis of the footpads. Not every Irish Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Ireland
- Type
- Large and medium sized Terriers
- Internationally recognised
- 1955