Country of origin: | Ireland |
Registries: | AKC, UKC, CKC |
Occupation: | Farm dog, hunter, watchdog |
Size: | 18 in tall; 25 to 27 lbs |
Longevity: | 14 to 15 years |
Exercise: | Active |
Training: | Challenge |
Grooming: | Hand-stripping |
Colors: | Yellow, wheaten, red, sometimes with small white markings |
Also called Irish Red Terriers, but aptly nicknamed “Daredevils” by their fans, Irish Terriers are reckless, animated dogs that both work hard and play hard. Bred around Cork in the far south of Ireland as a superb vermin hunter and water dog, they have an elegant, racy build and a striding gait that covers plenty of ground. They make entertaining and loyal family companions, but are inclined to take the mere presence of another dog as a challenge. Thorough training is vital, as exercising on a lead can be the best way to tire them out.