It’s time to celebrate our Irish Dog Breeds!
Blog
March 15, 2022
You may be well aware that St Patrick’s Day falls on the 17th March, and we thought what better opportunity to celebrate our Irish dog breeds than on this date!
Did you know that there are 8 Irish dog breeds recognised by the UK Kennel Club in total? Why not put your knowledge to the test and see how much you know about them – perhaps you’re even the proud owner of one already…
1. Irish Setter
You may have heard this breed also being referred to as a “Red Setter”. This fun-loving dog is a gentle giant! Whilst they have been bred to retrieve game when out in the field, they also make fantastic family companions; just be prepared for their seemingly endless amounts of energy!
Breed Category: Gundog
Breed Standard Colour(s): Red
Size: Large
Coat Length: Medium
Exercise needed: Over 2 hours per day
2. Irish Red & White Setter
Originally known as the Irish Setter, they were traditionally used by falconers. Unfortunately, their popularity began to dwindle in the early 2000s due to the rising reputation of the red variety; however, in recent years there has been an increase again.
They have a gentle, happy and affectionate nature. However, are highly intelligent and require plenty of exercise, which makes them great workers.
Breed Category: Gundog
Breed Standard Colour(s): Red & White
Size: Large
Coat Length: Medium
Exercise needed: Over 2 hours per day
3. Irish Terrier
These dogs were selectively bred to bring about their striking red coats, and with the colour came their fiery nature!
They are brave, lively little dogs who are particularly good with humans; although they can have tendencies to struggle more with other dogs.
Breed Category: Terrier
Breed Standard Colour(s): Red, Red Wheaten, Rust, Wheaten, Wheaten Red
Size: Small
Coat Length: Medium
Exercise needed: Up to 1 hour per day
4. Irish Wolfhound
It is believed that these dogs were originally bred to see off wolves, which were a big threat to livestock in Ireland. However, once wolves became extinct in the late 1800s, this breed began to dwindle.
They are the tallest of hounds, and the biggest of all breeds! Despite their giant size, speed, courage and power, their nature is gentle and calm.
Breed Category: Hound
Breed Standard Colour(s): Black, Black Brindle, Brindle, Cream, Dark Brindle, Fawn, Grey, Grey Brindle, Red, Red Brindle, Wheaten, Wheaten Brindle
Size: Large
Coat Length: Medium
Exercise needed: Over 2 hours per day
5. Irish Water Spaniel
In case you hadn’t already guessed from the name, this breed’s speciality is retrieving from water; although that doesn’t mean they’re not a versatile gundog!
They are easy to recognise by their curly coat, thin tail and strong build. Loyal and obedient, they are usually devoted to their family.
Breed Category: Gundog
Breed Standard Colour(s): Liver, Liver Puce
Size: Medium
Coat Length: Medium
Exercise needed: Over 2 hours per day
6. Kerry Blue Terrier
This feisty litter terrier was originally bred to cull rats, which evolved to hunting in rivers for otter.
They are born black, however their coat changes colour to blue as they get older. Powerful and compact, this determined breed can also come across as rather graceful!
Breed Category: Terrier
Breed Standard Colour(s): Black, Black & Blue, Black Turning Blue, Blue
Size: Medium
Coat Length: Medium
Exercise needed: Up to 1 hour per day
7. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
This breed was originally used for hunting otter and badgers. Some even say that it is an ancestor of the Irish Terrier and Kerry Blue Terrier. Their nature is affectionate, good tempered and intelligent, but they have strong sporting instincts, full of confidence!
Breed Category: Terrier
Breed Standard Colour(s): Blonde, Brown, Wheaten
Size: Medium
Coat Length: Medium
Exercise needed: Up to 1 hour per day
8. Glen Of Imaal Terrier
This fearless little dog was originally bred to hunt badgers. With great strength and agility, they make fantastic workers! They are gentle and reasonably docile; but it is advised not to get one if you have younger children.
Breed Category: Terrier
Breed Standard Colour(s): Blue, Blue Brindle, Brindle, Wheaten
Size: Small
Coat Length: Medium
Exercise needed: Up to 1 hour per day
Do you own an Irish dog breed?
Could you spot your breed? If so, we’d love to see your photos! Simply tag us on social media and use #borntobeoutdoors
We wish you all a very happy St Patrick’s Day and hope you will join us in celebrating our Irish breeds!
