Description
Once called the Irish Red Terrier to distinguish the breed from other terriers in Ireland, the Irish Terrier may well be the oldest of them all. The breed was first shown in Ireland in 1875, when there was still variation in size and type, and was also the first of all the native Irish terriers to receive recognition by the Kennel Club in England, back in the nineteenth century.
Daredevil at heart, reckless and sometimes foolhardy where canine opponents are concerned, the Irish Terrier nevertheless has the softest, most gentle and loving dispositions, coupled with a delightful sense of humour. He is totally reliable with youngsters and has a sympathetic attitude to the moods and foibles of adults.
This long-legged terrier is good-looking too, with a harsh red coat and a graceful racy outline.
The Terrier Breed Group
Dogs originally bred and used for hunting vermin. 'Terrier' comes from the Latin word Terra, meaning earth. This hardy collection of dogs were selectively bred to be extremely brave and tough, and to pursue fox, badger, rat and otter (to name but a few) above and below ground. Dogs of terrier type have been known here since ancient times, and as early as the Middle Ages, these game breeds were portrayed by writers and painters.