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"Small Dog Breed Catalog"
Small Dog Breed Catalog: Page 21
of 56
Irish Terrier Dog Breed
The Irish Terrier has a strong, leggy body, and a short, dense, wiry
coat that sheds a little and resembles a small Airedale. He is alert,
courageous, curious, spirited, active, a bit sensitive, a great
ratter, and not as snappy as most terriers. He is a good watchdog, a
loyal protector, and a wonderful family pet. Because of his sensitive
nature, puppy training should not be rushed or overbearing.
Consistent and patient training method along with early socialization
is important. An adult Irish Terrier is more confident and slightly
stubborn, therefore requiring a firmer training attitude. He may be
suspicious of strangers and may show aggression toward other dogs. He
is good with children if he was raised with children from puppy hood.
This breed is an outstanding performer in obedience competitions.
Size: The Irish Terrier stands 17-18in at the shoulder and weighs
between 25-30lb.
History and origin: This ancient Irish breed was used as a ratter and
hunter of small game. He also worked as a retriever on land and in
water. During wartime, this breed was used as a messenger dog. Irish
sources claimed that this breed was established in the country even
before the arrival of their patron saint St. Patrick. Some say that
the Irish Terrier is a smaller version of another one of their
national dogs, the Irish Wolfhound, though the relationship seems
somewhat remote. The breed is more likely a descendant of the Black
and Tan Wire-haired Terriers whose purpose was to hunt fox and destroy
vermin in Britain some 200 years ago. However, the standard breeding
of the Irish Terriers did not start until 1879. It was also in that
year when a specialist Breed Club was formed.
Feeding: Recommended feeding for the Irish Terrier is 1-1 ' cans of
high-quality meat product (13.3oz size) with biscuit added in equal
amount or 3 cupfuls of a complete, dry food.
Exercise: The Irish Terrier is a small, sporty dog which has been
successfully trained to the gun and is excellent at destroying vermin.
He is suitable for apartment living as long as he gets his daily
exercise in order to stay healthy and well behaved. A bored and
restless Irish Terrier may bark and dig incessantly. Given his trim
and athletic body, this is a good dog to jog with.
Grooming: The Irish Terrier requires only periodic brushing and an
occasional clipping. However, show dogs must be hand-stripped several
times a year and is best when done professionally. Hand stripping is
a time-consuming hair-plucking procedure that preserves the texture
and luster of the coat.
Copyright 2006 by Jay Jennings. All rights reserved.
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