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Irish Terrier Facts
- Group
- Terrier
- Affiliations
- AKC, CKC, UKC
- Height
- 18" tall
- Weight
- 25-27 lbs.
- Lifespan
- 14 years | Add yours
- Exercise Requirement
- Training Requirement
- Grooming Requirement
- Colors
- Breed Characteristics
Alternate Names
Irish red terrier, daredevil,
Origin
The Irish terrier originated in Ireland.
Date Of Origin
This breed developed in the 1700's.
History
This is probably the oldest, native terrier in Ireland. Bred for small game and to control vermin, it is also a good retriever and will retrieve both from water and land. It has been used to hunt big game and has served as a military dog in World War I.
Description
This is a medium sized dog that is powerful and agile. Its head is long and the skull is flat and narrow and free of wrinkles. The skull and muzzle is equal in length and the jaw is strong. The small, dark brown eyes are often described as fiery. There is a black nose and small, v-shaped ears that are semi-erect, folding forward. The tail is docked at about a quarter of its length and held high. There is a soft undercoat and a wiry, broken, medium-short outer coat that fits close to the body. The face has a beard and whiskers. The coat can be bright red, red wheaten, or wheaten.
Temperament
This is a good tempered dog that is affectionate and loyal to its family but fiery and courageous in the field. It is very protective, sometimes overprotective, making an excellent guard. It is somewhat difficult to train as it can be mischievous.
Uses
It has been used to penetrate the dens of small animals, as a retriever, as a hunter in water of otters and water rats, and as a messenger in times of war. A medal was conferred on the breed in 1918 for, among other things, "its boldness and complete scorn for danger". Today the Irish terrier is much appreciated as a companion dog. It lives well in the city and in any climate.
Health Concerns
Bladder stones
Additional Information
This dog requires hand stripping by a professional groomer.
Sources
The Howell Book Of Dogs
Publisher: Wiley Publishing Inc, 2007
Website: http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/
Author: Liz Palika
Dog Bible
Publisher: BowTie Press, 2005
Website: http://www.bowtiepress.com/bowtie/
Authors: Kristin Meuh-Roe, Jarelle S. Stein
Simon & Schusters Guide to Dogs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster inc, 1980
Website: http://www.simonandschuster.com
Author: Elizabeth Meriwether Schuler
The New Encyclopedia of the Dog
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Publishing, 2000
Website: http://www.dk.com
Author: Bruce Fogle
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