Ireland has produced some of the most amazing breeds of dogs on the planet. Ranging from small to the tallest dog of them all, the canines of the “Emerald Isle,” are a unique bunch. And this Irish dog breeds list will give you the basics of each.
Glen Of Imaal Terrier
The Glen of Imaal Terrier was developed as a fox and badger hunting dog. It’s a small and compact dog that was bred to work. In fact, it’s often considered to be a big dog in a small dog’s body. The Glen is known for its intelligence and like other Irish terrier dog breeds also its cocky attitude.
While it is an old breed it did not make its first appearance in the show ring until 1933. As its name suggests it originated in the Glen of Imaal in County Wicklow.
Irish Terrier
The Irish Terrier is a native of County Cork in southern Ireland. This is a very confident breed and therefore has earned the nickname the “ Daredevil.” It’s also known as the Irish Red Terrier because of its eye-catching red coat.
The Irish Terrier’s coat is coarse and hard in texture. Living up to its nickname this breed actually served the allies as a war messenger. Similar to many other terriers, this is one that does not typically get along well with other dogs.
Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier is actually the national dog of Ireland. And it’s named after County Kerry in the southwestern corner of the country. It’s also known as the Irish Blue Terrier. This dog is actually born black however its coat gets lighter over the first two years of its life.
The breed is an all-around farm dog that was used as a rat catcher and guard dog. It’s believed that it was originally developed from crossing the Dandie Dinmont Terrier and the Irish Terrier. The breed’s curly coat does not shed, and therefore needs regular clipping.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is the oldest of the four Irish terrier dog breeds. It gets its name from its soft coat that is wheaten in color. Because it doesn’t shed and the coat itself is so soft, it doesn’t usually cause symptoms for allergy sufferers. In fact, the Wheaten is one of the most popular hypoallergenic dog breeds.
While it was developed to herd, hunt, and guard, today it is typically used as a companion. This is a people-loving breed that is known for its enthusiastic way of greeting guests by excitedly jumping up onto them. Like the Kerry Blue, the Wheaten needs regular grooming.
Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound has been around since ancient times. It was used by the Irish Celts as a hunting dog and guardian for their homes and flocks. Later on, it specialized in hunting wolves. The breed was therefore vital for protecting the country’s flocks of sheep from being decimated by these predators.
This is the tallest dog breed in the world however it typically has the personality of a gentle giant that is unless its family is threatened. Unfortunately, the Irish Wolfhound is prone to many types of cancer and has a very short lifespan when compared to other breeds.
Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is famous for its stunning solid chestnut-colored coat. Because of this it was actually first named the Irish Red Setter, however, the name was later changed. It was developed as a bird hunting dog. And like all setters, it would crouch near a bird’s location to show the hunter where it was hiding.
This breed could also be used to retrieve and point as well. The Irish Setter is a gentle dog that’s also highly energetic and athletic. It does mature a bit more slowly than other breeds and because it was bred to think on its own when hunting, it can sometimes be a little stubborn.
Irish Red And White Setter
Most people aren’t aware that there are actually two Irish Setter dog breeds. And the Irish Red And White Setter is believed to be the older of the two. Originally the red and white-colored dogs were preferred since when hunting their contrasting coat made them easier to spot in the field.
However because the appearance of the solid red coat of the Irish Setter became so popular both in the ring and society, the Irish Red And White Setter almost became extinct. Luckily there was a successful effort in the 1920s to revive the breed and ensure its survival until this day.
Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is a water dog with a curly coat. And it’s this curly coat that often causes it to be confused for the Poodle. The coat is naturally oily and dense which helps to make it essentially waterproof.
A trait that sets the Irish Water Spaniel apart from all other breeds is its totally bare tail. It actually looks quite similar to the tail of a rat. This breed is known for having endless energy, and therefore best-suited for highly active owners.
Kerry Beagle
Along with the Irish Wolfhound, the Kerry Beagle is considered to be one of the oldest native Irish dog breeds. It’s believed to have been developed in the sixteenth century. Despite its name, the breed doesn’t actually have too many similarities to the standard Beagle.
It’s larger in size and was originally used for hunting stags as opposed to small game. Today it’s used for hunting fox and hare. The Kerry Beagles brought to the United States by Irish immigrants are actually believed to be one of the foundation breeds used to create the various Coonhounds.
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Dogs That Look Like Sheep
Through artificial selection, dog breeders have created hundreds of unique breeds with a range of different physical characteristics. Some even look similar to other animals including sheep. So here are seven dogs that look like sheep, and what you’ll want to know...
Black And White Dog Breeds
Dogs’ coats can be many different colors; however black and white coats are always one of the most popular. The contrast created by these two opposite colors can really make for an eye-catching canine. So here are some of the top black and white dog breeds you’ll want...
Austrian Dog Breeds
People all over the world have bred dogs to do a variety of different tasks, such as herding, guarding, hunting, and even just laying on someone's lap! As a result, there are hundreds of breeds that hail from countless different countries. Austria has created several...
Dogs That Look Like A Carpet
The best part about dogs is that there's a breed out there for every kind of person. If you're searching for dogs that look like a carpet, you'll be surprised to find that there are quite a few breeds that fit the bill. So here are nine different carpet-looking dogs!...
Hungarian Dog Breeds
When looking to adopt a dog, you might be overwhelmed by all of the choices. After all, there are hundreds of different breeds to choose one, and each is just as adorable as the next! Not only do dogs come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, but each dog also...
Dogs That Look Like Dingoes
Black Panther Looking Dogs
One of the many wonderful things about dogs is that they come in all kinds of colors, sizes, and personalities. If you want a dog that looks a certain way, you have hundreds of breeds to choose from! If you are searching for a dog that looks as sleek and powerful as a...
Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Dogs are the most popular pets in the entire world, with an estimated 33% of the earth's population owning at least one adorable pooch. Unfortunately, no matter how much you love dogs, there is one thing that can get in the way of you enjoying a canine of your own;...
American Dog Breeds
While dogs, as we know them today, are all ancestors of the wolf, different countries have carefully selected certain traits to create numerous different breeds. Just because some breeds were created in the same country, however, does not necessarily mean they will...
Tricolor Dogs
Part of what makes dogs so charming is that no two dogs look exactly alike! They come in so many different sizes, shapes, and of course, colors. One popular trait that many owners adore is tricolor dogs. Tricolor dogs have a coat that comes in three colors. The dog's...
Dogs That Look Like A Mop
With so many breeds on the planet, it’s no surprise that canines come in a wide variety of different coat types. However, seeing a dog that looks like a mop isn’t an everyday occurrence. So for those who love dogs with coats that are totally unique, here are the top...
Dogs That Look Like Wolves
Humans have been breeding dogs for centuries. With such adorable breeds as pugs and Pomeranians, it can be easy to forget where all of these dogs are descended from. Many modern dog breeds don't look anything like their ancient ancestors; wolves. However, there are...
Fox Looking Dogs
There are so many dog breeds in the world today that it can be overwhelming to choose one to take home with you. Different breeds come in a variety of different shapes, sizes, and colors, but those differences don't make any one breed less adorable than the other! Of...
Dogs That Look Like Lions
The lion is considered to be the king of the jungle. Yet while they may appear regal, lions are at the same time powerful and fearsome predators. Having a lion at home isn’t an option however there are many lion-like dogs that make fantastic pets. Therefore, lion fans...
Chinese Dog Breeds
All dogs are descended from the same breed: Canis lupus familiaris. However, over time, humans were able to domesticate dogs to have different physical features and temperaments. Today, there are around 360 officially recognized dog breeds, which come from all over...
African Dog Breeds
Dogs are undoubtedly the most popular pets in the entire world. With over 360 recognized breeds today, it's no wonder different breeds have origins from every country imaginable. The continent of Africa has contributed many different dog breeds, as well. So here are...
The Cleanest Dog Breeds
Are you considering getting a dog, but don't want to deal with too much mess? Then you've come to the right place! Dogs make wonderful pets because no matter what you want in a furry companion, you're sure to find a breed that works for you. Today, we're going to take...
Dogs That Look Like Bears
When it comes to comparing canines to other animals, most people automatically think of examples such as wolves, and foxes. However, there are actually many dogs that look like bears. From those that look similar to black bears, grizzlies, polar bears, and even teddy...
Dogs That Look Like Polar Bears
Many dog breeds look similar to other types of animals. For example, there are breeds that remind us of lions, foxes, wolves, and even bears. And a few special canines closely resemble polar bears. So here are the top dogs that look like polar bears and what you’ll...
Dogs With Purple Tongues
Most canines have pink tongues. Amazingly, however, there are actually a few different types of dogs with purple tongues. This is a highly unusual trait. So here are the only dog breeds with purple tongues on the planet, along with what you’ll want to know about them....