Terrier group · Ireland
Irish Terrier
Also called Red Devil, Irish Red Terrier.
What makes them remarkable
Irish Terriers carried messages and stood watch during the First World War.
- Bold
- Dashing
- Tenderhearted
- Loyal
- Fearless
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 11 to 12 kg25 to 27 lb
- Lives
- 13 to 15 years
- Energy
- High
- Trains
- Moderate
- Barks
- Moderate
Training
Training an Irish Terrier
Terrier breeds. Impulse control and a rock-solid leave it. Short, high-value sessions; they bore fast.
Early Dog Socialisation
Start here
Irish Terriers can be aggressive with other dogs if not properly socialised. Start young and continue throughout life.
Respect Their Intelligence
Highly intelligent but independent. They may understand commands but choose not to obey, stay patient.
Channel Their Courage
Fearless to a fault. Teach self-control (waiting when they would rather go) and a reliable recall to keep them safe.
The app turns this into five to fifteen minutes a day.
Add your Irish Terrier and it builds the plan around their age, where they came from and what they already know, one step at a time.
Free to start. iPhone. No card needed.
At home
Living with one
Bred to go to ground after vermin. Fearless, quick, and not built to back down.
Gets on with
- ChildrenHigh
- Other dogsLow
- StrangersModerate
- CatsLow
Breed averages. Early socialisation and the individual dog matter more.
- Exercise
- 1-2 hours daily. Vigorous exercise including running, hiking, and active play.
- Grooming
- Hand-stripping 2-3 times yearly. Regular brushing to maintain coat texture.
- Drool
- Low
- Coat
- Wiry, Dense, BrokenRed, Golden Red, Red Wheaten
- In a flat
- Needs more space than a flat gives.
Health
Things to ask a breeder or vet about
Cystinuria
Moderate
Metabolic disorder causing bladder stones. DNA test available
Hyperkeratosis
Mild
Footpad condition causing thickened, cracked pads. DNA test available
Cataracts
Moderate
Eye condition that can impair vision
Where they come from
History
One of the oldest terrier breeds, originating in Ireland. Served as messenger and sentinel dogs during WWI, known for their bravery. Originally came in various colours but red became the standard by the 1880s.
- Ch. Doubletime · Irish Terriers gained fame during WWI as messenger dogs, with many receiving commendations for bravery under fire
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