Irish dog breeds include some of the most fascinating, fun and adorable dogs out there.
From its rolling hillsides to its enchanting history, Ireland is a lush island country famous for a number of things.
Including Saint Patrick, mythical legends, and of course beer!
But did you know there are only nine dog breeds native to this beautiful green paradise?
Irish Dog Breeds
There are just a handful of native Irish dogs, and yet they manage to include some real icons.
From the massive Irish Wolfhound, to the hair Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is a big Irish dog, famous not only for his size but also for his fascinating history.
This massive breed was created by crossing large British dogs with Middle Eastern coursing hounds.
There was also a time that the Irish Wolfhound was considered a ferocious war dog.
Their large size and fearless nature made them ideal for the battlefield.
However, the Irish Wolfhound got his name due to his wolf-hunting duties during the 15th century.
The Irish Wolfhound did the job so well that by the time the 1970s rolled around, wolves and many other game animals had been sadly hunted to extinction.
Unfortunately for the Irish Wolfhound, extinction of wolves and other big game on the island led to the near extinction of the breed as well.
They no longer had a job so continued breeding was not a priority.
Luckily, George Augustus Graham, a British army captain, made it his mission to save and promote the surviving Wolfhounds of Ireland.
Characteristics
The Irish Wolfhound of today may be considered the tallest dog breed around, but that hasn’t deterred dog lovers.
They typically enjoy life as a tranquil, laid-back family pet.
A very large Irish dog, the Irish Wolfhound stands up to 32 inches tall and can weigh a whopping 120 pounds!
He has a coarse coat that is wiry to the touch.
His short, shaggy coat comes in five colors:
- Black
- White
- Brindle
- Fawn
- Tan
He may look fierce, but the Irish Wolfhound is said to be a gentle, calm companion dog with a kind heart and very friendly disposition.
This is a breed who, despite being slow to mature in puppyhood, grows up to be sweet-tempered and does well with children and other household pets.
Still, Irish Wolfhound puppies are slow-growing.
They are quite destructive, meaning they are prone to chewing, digging and chasing.
They will need early socialization and obedience training to ensure they grow up to be well behaved and well rounded.
Health Issues and Life Expectancy
Like other large dog breeds, the massive Irish Wolfhound has a short lifespan of only 6–8 years.
Furthermore, he is prone to a number of genetic health issues a prospective owner should be aware of.
These health issues include
- von Willebrand’s Disease
- progressive retinal atrophy
- megaesophagus
- cardiomyopathy
- hip dysplasia
- osteochondritis dissecans
- Osteosarcoma
Glen of Imaal Terrier
The Glen Terrier is a sturdy little breed known for their incredible work ethic.
He was highly valued by hard-working Irish farmers, who used the breed for a number of tough jobs in the Imaal Mountains.
Originally developed for badger hunting, the Glen’s resume expanded to include a number of different jobs on the old farmstead.
There they used their unique size and build to complete a number of tasks for the family.
One such task had them running in wheels in kitchens to turn meat over an open flame!
Thus, many Glens became known as Turnspit Dogs.
It is believed that the Glen of Imaal migrated to the United States around the 1930s.
Although they did not become well known in America until much later.
In the 1980s, American breeders who were fond of the Glen took it upon themselves to import foundation stock dogs from Ireland that they used to build the modern-day Glen.
And while he is still a dog star in the rising, the Glen of today is said to make a wonderful pet for the right person.
Characteristics
The Glen Terrier is a smaller dog with uniquely bowed legs, coarse fur and an intelligent, expressive face.
They stand 12.5–14 inches tall and weigh 32–40 pounds.
Their coat comes in two colors:
- Blue Brindle
- Wheaton
Of the terrier types, the Glen of Imaal is perhaps the least well known, although their temperament is said to be the most desirable.
This breed is well mannered and sensitive, easy to train, highly intelligent, and pretty laid back.
His compact size makes him the ideal companion for those living in smaller apartments or homes.
However, his origins had him living the farm life, so he is not overwhelmed by larger homesteads either.
While this is a dog who gets on famously with family members and even other household pets, prospective owners should remember that this is a breed who was first created to hunt badger and fox.
He is a tough little guy who will hold his own with other dogs.
He should be well socialized at an early age, and experts recommend obedience training.
Health Issues and Life Expectancy
While the Glen Terrier is, for the most part, a healthy dog, he is still susceptible to a few genetic issues a potential owner should be aware of.
These health issues include
- progressive retinal atrophy
- rod-cone dystrophy
- hip dysplasia
Irish Red and White Setter
As far as Irish hunting dogs go, the Irish Red and White Setter is perhaps one of the most utilized.
With a story that goes as far back as the 1600s, the Irish Red and White Setter is said to have been a staple of Ireland for centuries, prized most of all by small game hunters.
An Irish pointer dog at heart, this breed would track game by creeping up on them on his belly.
Once the prey was spotted, the Irish Red and White Setter would freeze and point.
The breed is said to make a great pet for the person willing to take time to train and exercise this intelligent and active dog.
Characteristics
As you might expect, due to his name, the Irish Red and White Setter comes in two basic color combinations:
- Red
- White
The Irish Red and White Setter is also famous for his long ears, long tail, white body, and reddish patches around his back, ears, and eyes.
They stand up to 26 inches tall and can weigh up to 60 pounds.
While the Irish Red and White Setter is one of the many good-natured Irish dog breeds that gets on well with children and other household pets.
He is very intelligent and is in the working category of canines.
This means the Irish Red and White Setter is going to need lots of training and exercise to keep him both mentally and physically healthy.
He will do best in active households with owners who understand dog behaviors and who appreciate the wit and drive this determined Irish dog breed has!
Health Issues and Life Expectancy
The Irish Red and White Setter has a long lifespan of 11–15 years.
Still, like all of the Irish dog breeds on this list, he can be prone to a number of health issues.
The health concerns a prospective Irish Red and White Setter owner should be aware of are
- hip dysplasia
- cataracts
- progressive retinal atrophy
- hypothyroidism
- canine leukocyte adhesion deficiency
Irish Terrier
The Irish terrier dog, while not necessarily considered an Irish sheepdog, is a dog with a number of tricks up his sleeve.
Despite being originally bred as a ratting dog, the Irish Terrier’s job has largely moved on.
His intelligence and spunk led many of his owners to utilize him in the pastures guarding livestock and property, as well as using him for hunting.
The breed has long since been a staple of Ireland’s rural countryside and is considered the epitome of the perfect all-around farm dog.
Characteristics
Today, the feisty yet compassionate Irish Terrier is most often used as a pet and companion dog
The Irish Setter is renowned for being one of the oldest terrier types, as well as the only terrier dog that is all red in color.
Beautiful and intelligent, the modern day Irish Terrier also makes a wonderful and successful show dog.
Larger and longer than most other terrier breeds, the Irish Terrier stands at 18 inches and can weigh up to 27 pounds.
He is a sight to behold, with his dashing red coat, keen, alert eyes, floppy ears, and dignified mustache.
Health Issues and Life Expectancy
Living approximately 13–15 years, the Irish Terrier is one of the most robust of the Irish dog breeds.
But while rare, he can be prone to hyperkeratosis, which is a hardening and cracking of the paw, and cystinuria, which can lead to bladder stones.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is perhaps a favorite when it comes to the Irish shepherd dog.
These versatile farm dogs were bred for their hard-working yet sweet nature.
This makes them useful workers as well as desirable companions.
Closely related to the Kerry Blue Terrier and the Irish Terrier, the Wheaten was bred to perform a variety of jobs on the farm.
Ranging from exterminating rats to herding and guarding.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier may have come from working roots.
But today he is the epitome of what it means to be a family companion dog.
Whether he is snuggled up with you on the couch or stealing the spotlight at dog shows.
Characteristics
The Wheaten has a long, silky coat that is either pale beige or dark gold.
With his cute face and happy-go-lucky expression, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is as cuddly looking as they come.
He can grow to be 19 inches tall and can weigh up to 40 pounds, and has short, floppy ears, and (oftentimes) a docked tail.
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He is a true treasure, with his loyal, friendly demeanor and his ability to get on so well with just about everyone.
However, this is one of our Irish dog breeds who, although very smart, can be somewhat stubborn.
He will need early socialization and obedience training to ensure he grows up happy and well rounded.
Be patient with this breed, as he is sensitive and profoundly devoted to his people.
He will not respond well to harsh punishments when he has made a mistake.
Health Issues and Life Expectancy
The Wheaten can live between 10 and 12 years and can be prone to
- protein-losing nephropathy
- Addison’s disease
- renal dysplasia
Irish Water Spaniel
A type like the Irish Water Spaniel may have existed since the Renaissance days, as ancient writings depict a breed matching his general appearance.
However, most historians agree that the true Irish Water Spaniel came about during the 1930s.
A man by the name of Justin McCarthy wowed enthusiasts with his Irish Water Spaniel called Boatswain.
Boatswain set the standard for the breed, and thus the Irish Water Spaniel became a favorite for show.
As well as retrieving ducks and other birds of the water for small game hunters.
The Irish Water Spaniel still utilizes his unique skill to retrieve prey from the water.
However, he also makes a beloved pet.
With his beautiful curly coat and intelligent demeanor, the Irish Water Spaniel continues to do very well in show!
Characteristics
Did you know the Irish Water Spaniel is considered the tallest of the spaniel types?
Standing 24 inches tall and weighing up to 68 pounds, this large Irish dog breed is a breathtaking sight.
His body is covered in tight black curls from forehead to buttock, however, his rat tail is relatively bald.
The Irish Water Spaniel is an active, intelligent dog who is eager to please and always ready to play!
He does best in homes with older children.
While he does get on well with other household dogs he was raised with, he may see outside animals who are smaller than him as prey.
And be prone to chase after them due to his hunting background.
As we do with all of the Irish dog breeds on this list, we recommend early socialization and obedience training with the Irish Water Spaniel.
Health Issues and Life Expectancy
This Irish dog breed has a lifespan of 12–13 years.
Prospective owners should note that he can be especially sensitive to certain medications, including sulfa antibiotics and deworming medicines.
Furthermore, the Irish Water Spaniel can be prone to
- hip and elbow dysplasia
- thyroid disease
- allergies
Kerry Blue Terrier
Mostly used on Irish farms, the Kerry Blue Terrier was a jack of all trades.
Including ratting and herding, as well as guarding and hunting.
The breed’s resilient spirit and keen enthusiasm also made him the perfect mascot for patriots fighting for Irish liberation.
The beautiful Kerry Blue Terrier is a top dog when it comes to show, winning consistently since the 20th century!
They also make for a wonderful family pet due to their love of people and intelligent disposition.
Characteristics
This is one of our Irish dog breeds who is as unique looking as he is intelligent!
Standing up to 19.5 inches tall and weighing around 40 pounds, the Kerry Blue Terrier is renowned for his eye-catching blue coat, which is thick and curly.
However, this famous Irish blue dog can come in a number of other colors, including:
- Black
- Silver
- Blue & Black
He also has short yet floppy ears, a docked tail, and a long muzzle.
The Kerry Blue Terrier makes for an excellent family dog with kiddos of all ages.
However, he does not get on so well with other household pets.
In fact, this scrappy little terrier could be prone to picking fights with other dogs.
He would be happiest as the only dog in his home.
This is one of our Irish dog breeds who is very people-oriented and wants to be around his family, so owners should be able to spend lots of time with him.
Of course, we recommend early socialization and obedience training for your Kerry Blue Terrier.
Health Issues and Life Expectancy
A healthy Kerry Blue Terrier can live anywhere from 12 to 15 years.
His genetic health problems could include:
- entropion
- cataracts
- keratoconjunctivitis sicca
- hip dysplasia
- otitis externa
- spiculosis
- hair follicle tumors
- cerebellar abiotrophy
Irish Setter
Also known as Red Setters, these Irish dog breeds were originally created to be a hunter’s companion.
Much like the Irish Red and White Setter, the Red Irish Setter got his name by “setting” down on his belly to alert his master that a game bird was in his sights.
Built to run quickly over Ireland’s flat, green landscape, the Irish Setter became a favorite amongst hunters.
The Irish Setter is a good choice when it comes to crossbreeding.
Perhaps you have heard of the Golden Irish dog?
This is a crossbreed between the Golden Retriever and the Irish Setter.
Due to his beautiful exterior and clever mind, the purebred Irish Setter today excels in show and also makes a wonderful family pet.
Characteristics
Weighing up to 70 pounds and standing about 27 inches tall, the Irish Setter is best known for his beautiful red coat.
He has long, floppy ears, flowing fur, and a long tail.
For the most part, the Irish Setter is a friendly, outgoing dog.
He loves to play and enjoys families of all ages.
However, prospective owners with very small children may want to wait until their kids are a bit older.
The Irish Setter could be a bit too playful for the littlest youngsters.
The Irish Setter is one of those Irish dog breeds who gets on well with other household pets.
However, he does have a tendency to become shy.
Early socialization and obedience training will be key to making sure your Irish Setter is happy and adaptable.
Health Issues and Life Expectancy
With a lifespan of 12–15 years, the Irish Setter can be predisposed to:
- progressive retinal atrophy
- hip dysplasia
- hypertrophic osteodystrophy
- hypothyroidism
- osteosarcoma
- epilepsy
Kerry Beagle
The Kerry Beagle is said to be one of the oldest hound breeds.
In fact, he is believed to be the only hound type native to Ireland.
Originally bred as a staghound, the Kerry Beagle is believed to have existed since at least the 16th century.
While the Kerry Beagle once hunted stag, today he is mostly used to hunt fox and hare.
He also partakes in drag hunting.
However, despite his work ethic and hunting skills, the Kerry Beagle also enjoys a life full of love from those who call him their own.
Characteristics
The Kerry Beagle stands 22–24 inches tall and weighs up to 60 pounds.
He is larger than the typical Beagle.
The Kerry Beagle has long, floppy ears, a long tail, and a sleek coat that lies flat.
His coat comes in a number of color combinations:
- Black & Tan
- Black & White
- Tan & White
- Blue Mottled
- Tan, Black, & White
Health Issues and Life Expectancy
As far as Irish dog breeds go, the Kerry Beagle is rather healthy.
With no documented health concerns specific to the breed, the Kerry Beagle has a lifespan of 10–14 years.
Picking one of the Irish Dog Breeds!
Are Irish dog breeds calling your name?
But how on earth do you choose?
We can’t tell you which of the above nine Irish dog breeds to choose from.
However, we can give you some advice on how to pick the healthiest Irish dog breed puppy!
Always make sure you do your research, regardless of whether you are going through a breeder or you plan to rescue.
Getting your Irish dog breed from a reputable source could make all the difference when it comes to important aspects such as health and temperament down the road.
Breeder
Keep in mind that most breeders of Irish dog breeds will charge anywhere from $500 to over $1000.
The price will typically be higher if the puppy’s parents are show quality.
Luckily, most reputable breeders will have health screened their puppies.
They should offer you certificates to prove it, so you will be able to leave with your Irish dog pup, confident that he is good to go.
Rescue
While rescuing is much cheaper than going through a breeder, there will still be fees.
Typically, adoption fees are $50 to $100.
So are you truly ready for a new dog?
To find out whether you are, visit us here.
Do you share your life with an Irish dog?
Which of these canine charmers won your heart?
Tell us about them in the comments box!
References
- B Gallagher, et al. Geographical, Clinical, Clinicopathological and Radiographic Features of Canine Angiostrongylosis in Irish Dogs: A Retrospective Study. Irish Veterinary Journal.
- ML Suber, et al. Irish Setter Dogs Affected with Rod/Cone Dysplasia Contain a Nonsense Mutation in the Rod cGMP Phosphodiesterase Bega-Subunit Gene. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America.
- C Vila, et al. Phylogenetic Relationships, Evolution, and Genetic Diversity of the Domestic Dog. Journal of Heredity, 1999.
- L Ackerman. The Genetic Connection; a Guide to Health Problems in Purebred Dogs, 2011.
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