Irish Terrier Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Irish Terrier
The Irish Terrier is a fiery, red-coated terrier from Ireland, one of the oldest terrier breeds, bred as an all-purpose farm dog to hunt vermin, guard the home, and keep the family company. Nicknamed the 'Daredevil,' it is bold, spirited, and fearless, yet deeply devoted and tender with its own people, earning a reputation as a loyal, loving companion. It has a dense, wiry red coat that sheds little and a lean, racy build. Courageous to a fault and often scrappy with other dogs, it needs early socialization, consistent training, and an owner who appreciates its independent, comical, big-hearted character.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
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Browse all puppiesWhere this breed shines
- Devoted, affectionate, and protective family companion
- Low-shedding wiry coat suited to allergy-sensitive homes
- Bold, hardy, and long-lived with few serious health issues
Things to consider
- Can be scrappy and aggressive toward other dogs
- Strong prey drive and fearless nature require secure containment
- Wiry coat needs regular hand-stripping or trimming to keep texture
History
The Irish Terrier is among the oldest terrier breeds, developed in Ireland as a versatile working farm dog and recorded at shows from the 1870s. It served with distinction as a messenger and sentry dog in World War I, praised for courage and loyalty. It was recognized by the AKC in 1885 and remains a beloved, if less common, companion terrier.
Temperament
Irish Terriers are bold, energetic, and devoted, forming intense bonds with their families and being notably good with children they are raised with. They are courageous and can be reckless, with a strong prey drive and a tendency toward dog aggression. Intelligent but independent, they need firm, positive, consistent training.
Questions to ask a Irish Terrier breeder
- How are the parents with other dogs and with children?
- Have the breeding dogs been tested for hyperkeratosis (corny feet) and DFSP?
- What socialization has the litter had, especially around other animals?
Health considerations to discuss
Hyperkeratosis (corny feet). A hereditary footpad condition; a DNA test exists, so ask about parents' status.
Hypothyroidism. Occurs in the breed; ask about thyroid testing.
Urinary stones (cystinuria). Reported occasionally; discuss family history with the breeder.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club · The Kennel Club (UK) — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Irish Terrier litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Irish Terrier puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Irish Terrier listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Irish Terrier breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.