Irish Terrier

Description

The Irish Terrier, also known as the Irish Red Terrier, is an admired breed of medium-sized dog that originated in Ireland. It belongs to the terrier breed family which is remarkable for their distinct personality and excellent hunting skills. Irish Terriers have been bred to become vermin killers. Their thick, rough-looking double coat is wiry outside and soft underneath. Coat colors usually include solid red, red wheaten, golden red, or wheaten.

Height and Weight

Both the male and female members of the Irish Terrier breed normally stand a height of about 18 in at the withers, and weigh between 25 to 27 lbs.

Temperament

Irish Terriers, in general, are energetic, adventurous, and courageous dogs. They are loyal, affectionate, and sweet toward their family owners. The breed also makes very entertaining companions. Irish Terriers are bold, inquisitive, and intelligent. They are easy to train and are very playful. Because of their strong protective instincts, the breed requires an owner who is dominant, firm yet gentle in their leadership approach. Early socialization is also necessary to keep them stable-minded. Irish Terriers tend to be quite difficult to housebreak, and are rarely trusted around small, non-canine animals. Additionally, the breed has the tendency to explore and chase anything that seems to move, so handlers have keep them from running off-leash in an open, unsafe place.

Grooming

Irish Terriers have moderate grooming needs. Their wiry coat does not shed but needs to be stripped out at least twice a year to get rid of their dead hair. Clipping their coat is not adisable since it could ruin its coarse texture that protects them from dirt. Bathe sessions may also only be done not too frequently to preserve its sheen.

Health Concerns

Members of the Irish Terrier breed are generally healthy. In fact, they have an average life span of 13 to 14 years. Nevertheless, like any other canine, they are also known to be plagued by a few health issues. These include cataracts, hip dysplasia, hyperkeratosis, and hypothyroidism.

Best Environment

Irish Terriers typically make excellent apartment dogs. They are relatively active indoors, though can be readily relaxes if given ample exercise every day. The breed is equally adaptable to country-living. Because they like to chase small pets, handlers are advised not to let the dogs to exercise off-leash or explore in an open area. Irish Terriers have exercise requirements that could be met through daily long walks, at the very least.