Irish Terrier

History

Irish Setter puppy

Courtesy of IrishDogs.ie

Irish Setter puppy
Courtesy of IrishDogs.ie

Irish Setter puppy

Courtesy of IrishDogs.ie

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Believed to be the oldest of the terrier breeds, there have been references to the Irish Terrier in manuscripts that are centuries old. One of the earliest references can be found in the archive of Dublin Museum and the author calls the Irish Terrier a “poor man’s sentinel, farmer’s friend, and the gentleman’s favourite”. It earned a reputation as a brave, loyal breed during World War I when it was used to take messages between troops in the front lines.

Irish Setter

Courtesy of IrishDogs.ie

Irish Setter
Courtesy of IrishDogs.ie

Irish Setter

Courtesy of IrishDogs.ie

Enlarge image

Description & function

The Irish Terrier is a useful farm dog and, like the other Irish terrier was bred for its hunting and working ability. Most Irish Terriers have a distinctive thick, wiry red coat of hair, although some dogs may also have a red-wheaten or golden-wheaten coloured coat. Its main characteristics are endurance, speed, bravery, and strong loyalty.