Irish Terrier

Irish Terriers are energetic, intelligent, and alert dogs. They have been said to be the daredevils of the dog world. They are known for their hunting ability, as with other dogs in the Terrier group, which means they can put their keen sense of smell at work in earthdog trials.

Irish Terriers have often been described as stubborn, however they will respond well to motivational tools such as treats and favourite toys in reward-based obedience training.

They have been known to also enjoy dog sports such as agility, hunting, retrieving, Frisbee, tracking, flyball, and even water sports, all of which can provide physical and mental activity while promoting family bonding.

Irish Terrier History:

Irish Terriers were originally created during the 1870's in Cork, Ireland. “Erin” and “Killney Boy” are the names of the founding pair of Irish Terriers, and the breed was the first to be recognised by the Kennel Club as one native to Ireland.During 1880’s the Irish Terrier was the fourth most popular breed in England.

The exact origin of the breed is unknown, they are commonly thought to have been descended from the Black-and-Tan Irish Terriers, as were the Kerry Blue Terriers and the Soft-Haired Wheaten Terriers.

They were used as couriers during World War I to carry messages to the front line, they also received commendations during the war for locating wounded soldiers. F. M. Jowett, an English writer, described them as “the poor man’s sentinel, the farmer’s friend and the gentleman’s favourite.”