Irish Terrier

One of the oldest terrier breeds, it was established in Ireland well before formal dog shows began, working as a general-purpose vermin hunter and watchdog on farms across the country. It was first shown as a distinct breed in Dublin in 1875 and quickly gained a reputation for fearlessness, serving as a messenger dog in the trenches of the First World War, a role that cost many of the breed's dogs their lives and earned it the nickname "the poor man's sentinel and the rich man's playfellow".

In the home the Irish Terrier is game, loyal and often described by owners as having more personality than its modest size would suggest; it forms close bonds with its family and can be reserved or assertive with unfamiliar dogs, a legacy of its terrier heritage. It needs daily exercise and enjoys having a task, whether that is a long walk, scentwork or simply supervising the household, and does not do well left alone for long stretches. The wiry coat needs hand-stripping two or three times a year to keep its harsh texture, a job most owners hand to a groomer.

The breed today is a companion first and a working terrier second, though it retains the confidence and terrier stubbornness of its farm-dog ancestors. It suits owners who want a characterful, sturdy dog and are prepared for firm, consistent training rather than a dog that defers easily.