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Irish Terrier Dog Breed Facts
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Breed: Irish Terrier
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Also Called: Irish Red Terrier
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Height: The Irish Terrier is about 18 inches tall.
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Weight: The Irish Terrier weighs between 25-27 lbs.
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Colors: The Irish Terrier can be solid bright red, golden red, red wheaten, or wheaten.
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Physical Appearance: The Irish Terrier must be a balanced picture of symmetry, proportion and harmony. He also must convey character. This terrier must be active, lithe and wiry in movement, with great animation, sturdy and strong in substance and bone structure, but at the same time free from clumsiness, for speed, power and endurance are most essential. The Irish Terrier must be neither "cobby" nor "cloddy," but should be built on lines of speed with a graceful, racing outline.
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Temperament/Personality: The Irish Terrier 's temperament reflects his early background: he was family pet, guard dog, and hunter. He is good tempered, spirited and game. It is of the utmost importance that the Irish Terrier show fire and animation. There is a heedless, reckless pluck about the Irish Terrier which is characteristic, and which, coupled with the headlong dash, blind to all consequences, with which he rushes at his adversary, has earned for the breed the proud epithet of "Daredevil." He is of good temper, most affectionate, and absolutely loyal to mankind. Tender and forebearing with those he loves, this rugged, stout-hearted terrier will guard his master, his mistress and children with utter contempt for danger or hurt. His life is one continuous and eager offering of loyal and faithful companionship and devotion. He is ever on guard, and stands between his home and all that threatens.
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Care: The Irish Terrier needs regular brushing and combing will keep his coat in top shape. The more they are groomed, the more beautiful the coat will be. Hand strip the coat twice a year. This will maintain the texture and color of their coat. Bathe only when necessary. Check ears, teeth and nails regularly.
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Health Concerns/Problems: The Irish Terrier dog breed has been known to have experienced the following health conditions: Hyperthyroidism and Cataracts.
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Training: The Irish Terriers respond well to training, but require firm handling that is both consistent and tactful.
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Activity: The Irish Terriers exercise should consist of games with human contact, long walks on a leash and free run in a fenced yard.
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Life Span: The Irish Terrier lives an average life of 13-16 years.
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Litter Size: The Irish Terrier has an average litter of 4-6 puppies.
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Country of Origin: The Irish Terrier originated in Ireland.
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Brief History: The Irish Terrier may be the oldest terrier breed native to Ireland. To aid in differentiating it from other native terriers it was originally called the Irish Red Terrier. As with most terrier breeds, it was a dog of the common, working people and had to earn its keep by controlling vermin, such as rats.
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