Irish Dog BreedsHounds, gundogs and terriers from Ireland
Irish dog breeds were developed in Ireland, from the towering Irish Wolfhound to the red Irish Setter and a trio of tough farm terriers. Despite the island's size, they cover hounds, gundogs and terriers with very different needs. This guide helps you compare them and find the Irish breed that suits your home.
All Irish Dog Breeds
Irish Hounds
The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest breed recognized by the American Kennel Club, originally used to hunt wolves and other large game. Despite its size, it is typically gentle and calm indoors, though it needs room to stretch out and run. Like many giant breeds it has a short lifespan and is prone to heart disease and bloat, so careful breeder selection matters.
The Kerry Beagle is a rare scent hound from southwest Ireland. It is not recognized by the AKC but has a long history as a pack hound in its home region.
Both hounds have the drive to chase, so off-leash running belongs in securely fenced areas.
Irish Gundogs
Ireland has given the world several distinctive gundogs. The Irish Setter, with its glossy mahogany coat, is an exuberant, friendly bird dog that needs plenty of running. The Irish Red and White Setter is generally considered the older of the two setters, with a white base coat and red patches. The Irish Water Spaniel, often called the tallest spaniel, has a tight curly coat, a smooth rat-like tail and a love of water.
All three gundogs mature slowly and stay playful for years, so patient training pays off.
Irish Terriers
- Irish Terrier: a red, wire-coated, leggy terrier known for courage and loyalty.
- Kerry Blue Terrier: born dark, its soft, wavy coat gradually clears to blue-grey as the dog matures.
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: a cheerful, people-loving terrier with a silky, low-shedding coat.
- Glen of Imaal Terrier: a low-slung, sturdy and quieter terrier from County Wicklow.
All were all-purpose farm dogs, hunting vermin and guarding homes, so expect a confident and sometimes feisty attitude toward other animals.
Coat care differs within the terrier trio: the Irish Terrier and Glen of Imaal have wiry coats that benefit from hand-stripping, while the Kerry Blue and Wheaten have soft coats that need regular brushing and trimming.
Choosing an Irish Breed
If you want a low-shedding coat, look at the Wheaten, Kerry Blue and Irish Water Spaniel, but plan for regular grooming and trimming. For an active outdoor partner, the setters are a great match, as long as you can give them daily off-leash running in safe areas. If you want a gentle giant and can accept a short lifespan, the Irish Wolfhound is unforgettable. Terrier fans who prefer a calmer dog often like the Glen of Imaal.
Several of these breeds are uncommon outside Ireland and the UK, so expect waiting lists and take time to find a breeder who health-tests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the national dog of Ireland?
The Irish Wolfhound is widely regarded as Ireland's national dog and appears often in Irish history and symbolism.
Which Irish dog breeds are good with kids?
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and Irish Setter are known for being friendly and playful, and the Irish Wolfhound is typically gentle, though its size calls for supervision.
Are there hypoallergenic Irish dog breeds?
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Kerry Blue Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel shed little, though no dog is fully allergen-free.
How long do Irish Wolfhounds live?
Irish Wolfhounds have a short lifespan compared with smaller breeds, commonly around 6 to 8 years.
What is the rarest Irish dog breed?
The Kerry Beagle and the Glen of Imaal Terrier are among the rarest Irish breeds, with small populations even in Ireland.
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