It may be a small nation, but Ireland has a lot to be proud of. From St Patrick’s day, over music (U2, the Cranberries, Sinéad O’Connor, etc.) to breathtaking landscapes and literature (Samuel Beckett, Oscar Wilde) the Irishmen (and women) are popular all around the world. But, their four-legged creations are well-known as well. They may not have shepherd dogs, but they have some of the best sporting dogs and terriers. Unique as the Emerald Isle itself, here are 9 native dog breeds of Ireland. Let tús.

1. Irish Setter

The Sotar Rua – Irish for the Red Setter, or the Irish Red Setter is a friendly, energetic dog with great affection to its family. They are always up for a game and are known to go well with other dogs too. While being perfect as family dogs and sporting dogs, they do not go well with small animals because of their high prey drive.

The Irish Setter is a medium-sized dog with a mahogany red or reddish-brown coat color. That’s where they got their name from – the Red Irish Setter. The length of the coat is medium and the texture is silky. A beautiful dog full of energy and affection that needs a loving and active family too.

2. Irish Red and White Setter

Besides the coat color, the Irish Setter and the Irish Red and White Setter also differ in size. The Irish Red and White Setter is stockier and a bit shorter. However, their personalities are very similar. The Irish Red and White Setter also needs a lot of daily activities and is very connected to their owners. So, don’t leave them alone for too long with nothing to do. 

3. Irish Water Spaniel

This is the tallest of the Spaniels. They are also one of the most recognizable because of their curly coats and rat-like tails. These are strong dogs with a compact build. Just like the name suggests, they were bred to swim. To be precise, the Spáinnéar Uisce (Irish for Water Spaniel) was bred to flush out waterfowl.

There is a slight size difference between males and females. Male dogs are a bit taller and heavier than females, with the usual height of up to 23 inches. Females are around 22 inches. The Irish Water Spaniel can appear aloof, but they make strong bonds with their owners and are very affectionate.

4. Irish Wolfhound

The giant among the Irish dog breeds, and a lot of worldwide breeds, the Irish Wolfhound has been around for more than 2000 years. And, as you’ve already guessed, they were originally bred to hunt wolves and other big game. However, even though they were bred for such a serious job, these dogs are very laid back and calm. 

If you are looking for a gentle giant, the Irish Wolfhound is a great choice. They are taller than 30 inches and can weigh from 105 to 120 pounds. However, they are also known for their short lifespan – only 6 to 10 years. 

5. Kerry Beagle

This dog breed from Éire is a scent hound. They were bred to help hunt larger game, such as deer. These dogs have great stamina and love to work. This means you’ll have to be ready to give them enough mental and physical stimulation every day. Otherwise, a bored dog exchanges boredom for misbehavior and even aggression.

They can be from 22 to 24 inches tall and weigh up to 60 pounds. Kerry Beagle will adapt to wherever you live, but they are suitable for country, not city living. They need to explore, sniff, and dig.

6. Irish Terrier

The trait that suits the Irish Terriers the best is bold. They might be small (up to 18 inches tall) but they are, just like other Terrier dogs, very brave and energetic. The Irish Terrier does not go well with other dogs, unless we socialize them from an early age and continue to do so as long as they are with us. Even then, they will have a certain aloofness toward strange dogs (and people). But, they are very loyal and affectionate to their owners, especially to the youngest members of the family. Playful, energetic, and loyal – perfect friend for the children.

7. Irish Glen of Imaal Terrier

This is one of the rarest dog breeds in the world. There are approximately 1000 dogs left in the world! They are short (up to 14 inches) but quite heavy (from 30 to 40 pounds). These dogs are hard-working dogs. If you do come across some of them, you will notice they are not as energetic as some other Terriers. But that doesn’t mean they don’t need to be active. Just like other dogs, they too require mental and physical stimulation every day through walks, games, and playtime.

8. Kerry Blue Terrier

Another Kerry, but this one is a Terrier – the Kerry Blue Terrier is a beautiful dog with a silky and wavy coat. They are usually up to 19 inches tall and weigh from 30 to 40 pounds. The Kerry Blue Terrier is a smart dog. They are also very loyal and friendly, always looking for something to do with their owners. That means they are not suitable for families who have a very busy lifestyle. These dogs need to be a part of everyday activities and they love to be active!

9. Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The last on our list is the fourth Terrier dog native to Ireland. The Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a smart and energetic dog, with a dose of stubbornness in its nature. This can be a problem when training them. However, they are lovely family pets, interesting, fun, loyal, and loving. Not to mention, these dogs are beautiful! They are suitable for country and city living with their smaller size – up to 19 inches tall and weigh from 30 to 40 pounds. 

Final Thoughts

There are nine Irish dog breeds. All of them have that special charm (lucky charm?) and high spirits. Even the big Irish Wolfhound can’t be said to be a lazy dog. These are all hard-working dog breeds that share one other trait – loyalty. All of them are bred to work close to people. Because of that, they make strong bonds with the whole family. Loyal, brave, and a bit stubborn – the Irish dog breeds are perfect dogs for active families with lots of time to explore nature with their dogs. From hikes to walks, they love to be a part (an active part) of your life.

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Cover photo by Jason Murphy