Irish Terrier - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) Origin
It is believed, that this is one of the oldest of all Terriers. The certain origin is unknown, but we know for sure, that these dogs were used as vermin hunters in Ireland in the 17th century and in the 18th century they gained a lot of popularity in English and Scottish show ring. They were described as poor man's sentinel, the farmer's friend, and the gentleman's favourite.


2) Temperament
This is pretty calm breed when they are indoors, but when they are outside they are full of energy, they want to explore everything and they want to play all the time. Outdoors, they are pretty mischevious, but definitely fun to be around. They are also very sweet, loyal and friendly towards their family, but on the other hand, alert and suspicious towards strangers. We can say, that this is protective breed which makes both, good watchdog and loyal family companion.


3) High energy
The Irish Terrier is very energetic, active dog breed who loves exploring. They need a lot of daily exercise to be happy, otherwise, they might dig their way out of your yard and go for its own adventure. They will enjoy almost any activity with you and daily longer walks or jogs are a must with this breed.


4) Nicknames
This is a fearless dog and that is why they are sometimes nicknamed Daredevil and their motto is no fear. Their second nickname is the d’Artagnan of the show ring, because of their high confidence and often winning in show ring competitions.


5) Size
This is long legged and athletic dog breed with average height between 18-20 inches which is 45-50 cms and weight between 23-27 pounds which is 10-12 kgs. The females are naturally little bit smaller than males.


6) Other pets
This dog breed is pretty dominant and most importantly, they have high prey drive. That is why they are a bad choice for homes with other smaller pets, like hamsters for example. They do okay around other dogs and they love to be around kids, who are no problem at all.


7) Appearance
The Irish Terrier has a typical long terrier head with V shaped ears and strong jaws. Their dense wiry coat can be in bright red, golden red, red wheaten or wheaten color and they have spirited and intelligent look in their dark brown eyes.


8) Bad behaviour
Irish Terriers have the typical terrier problematic behaviours. It is because they are very energetic, and especially, if their energy needs are not met, they can bark, they can be desctructive and they love digging. But you can minimize this bad behaviour with a lot of exercise. Tired dog is a good dog.


9) Health
This is relatively very healthy dog breed without any common serious health issues and good lifespan between 13-15 years. Of course, they can still sometimes suffer from some health issues, for example hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy or Hypothyroidism


10) Easy Maintenance
This breed is pretty easy to maintain. It might not look like it, but the dense coat is not shedding a lot and they require only weekly brushing to keep the coat in a good shape. Ocassional stripping is benefical as well. Just like with other breeds you should regularly check the dogs ears, eyes and nails and clean it or clip it if needed.