Irish Terrier

Since Irish Terriers were bred for active work, these dogs need plenty of regular exercise. They need at least a daily long, brisk walk, where the dog is made to heel beside or behind the human holding the lead. Do not let this terrier walk in front, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human.

High Maintenance: The Irish Terrier is a fairly low-maintenance breed that requires regular brushing with a stiff bristled brush. A fine tooth comb should be used to remove the dead hairs after brushing. Hand-plucking of the hairs of the Irish Terrier is necessary twice a year. Excessive hair around the pads of the feet must be trimmed and the ears must be kept clean.

The Irish Terrier has a graceful, racy outline, with a moderately long body. It should not have the short back characteristic of so many of the long legged terriers. It is sturdy and strong in substance, but it is also active and lithe in movement. This is an all-round terrier that must combine speed, endurance, agility and power to perform a great variety of jobs. Its broken coat is dense and wiry, never so long as to obscure the body shape. Its expression, like its nature, is intense.

Called the daredevil of dogdom, the Irish terrier is brash, bold, assertive, playful, inquisitive, independent, strong-willed and ever ready for action and adventure. It is usually aggressive toward other dogs and small animals and tends to be reserved with strangers. It likes to chase and run and hunt and explore; it needs daily physical and mental exercise in a safe area. Given sufficient exercise, it is surprisingly well-mannered and dignified indoors. It is a loyal and entertaining companion.

The Irish Terrier is one of four terrier breeds developed in Ireland, and it may be the oldest. He was a dog of the common, used as an all around farm dog and hunter. Originally, there were black and tan and brindle, as well as red, Irish Terriers, but by the 20th Century, the breed was only red in color. The Irish Terrier was the first breed to be recognized by the English Kennel Club as a native Irish breed. During the First World War, they were used as messenger dogs during trench warfare, proving their intelligence and usefulness. The Irish Terrier was recognized by the AKC in 1885 and a United States' breed club was started in 1896. Some of the Irish Terrier's talents include: hunting, tracking, retrieving, ratter, watchdog, guarding, police work and military work.