Mary Allen
The Irish Terrier is one of the four terrier breeds that originated in Ireland and is thought to be the oldest of them. Find out everything about the behavior, character, activity and exercise needs, training, and care of the Irish Terrier dog breed in the profile.
The dogs have been kept as guard and family dogs for centuries and initially came in a variety of colors. It was only at the end of the 19th century that a breed standard was agreed upon and attempts were made – quite successfully – to eliminate all colors except red.
General Appearance
The Irish Terrier is active, lively, lithe, and wiry according to the breed standard. The coat should be either bright red, wheaten red, or yellowish red in color. A white chest patch is allowed.
Behavior and temperament
For his fans, he is “a dog made of gold, inside and out”. And indeed: Its absolute adaptability makes the Irish Terrier a great all-rounder. Full of joie de vivre, he’s always ready to have fun and, with his charm, even softens people who don’t really like dogs. On the other hand, he is a real terrier that you have to know how to take. And even those who think they can, regularly fall for his innocent glance. Always loyal to its master, the red terrier is absolutely adaptable and reliable. He is very intelligent, attentive, and affectionate.
Need for employment and physical activity
They either slouch around on the sofa without restraint or run as if their lives were at stake. Terriers like extremes, so are prepared. As a rule, the breed is extremely active outdoors and particularly lazy indoors. However, you should already plan several kilometers of exercise every day.
Upbringing
Raise your terrier lovingly and with absolute consistency. He does not “forgive” mistakes and exploits every weakness of his owner to the utmost.
Maintenance
Regular trimming (twice a year) of their coat is important, as is ear and eye care.
Disease Susceptibility / Common Diseases
In rare cases, Irish terriers can suffer from hereditary metabolic disorders, which primarily have a negative effect on kidney and bladder function.
Did you know?
For decades, Irish Terriers have enjoyed a reputation for being particularly brave and fearless. The fact that they are said to have these qualities is “owed” to the fact that they were often used as messenger dogs during the First World War and successfully mastered their tasks even under the most intense fire.