Irish dog breeds weren’t originally bred just to look beautiful—they were created with purpose. Across Ireland, often called the Emerald Isle, these dogs worked closely with humans, taking on roles that ranged from hunting and guarding to retrieving game in tough terrain.
From terriers and setters to hounds and spaniels, each breed developed specific skills suited to Ireland’s environment and lifestyle. Today, these breeds are generally categorized into groups like Terrier, Sporting, and Hound by the American Kennel Club.
While many of these dogs still retain their working instincts, they’ve also become beloved pets around the world. Below, we’ll take a closer look at nine native Irish dog breeds—their origins, personalities, and what makes each one unique. 
01. Glen of Imaal Terrier
The Glen of Imaal Terrier was originally bred to hunt badgers in the harsh, rocky landscape of County Wicklow in Ireland. Compared to many other terriers, this breed is noticeably calmer and less intense, making it a great fit for owners who want a more easygoing companion.
Its rough, wiry coat needs regular care—brushing once or twice a week helps prevent tangles and matting. The good news is that it sheds very little, which means some people with allergies may tolerate this breed well. That said, the Glen of Imaal Terrier is still considered quite rare, especially outside Ireland.
Breed Overview
- Group: Terrier
- Height: 12.5 to 14 inches
- Weight: 32 to 40 pounds
- Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, bold
- Coat and Color: Medium-length, wiry; blue brindle or wheaten
- Energy Level: Moderate
- Life Span: 10 to 15 years
02. Irish Red and White Setter
The Irish Red and White Setter shares a close history with the better-known Irish Setter. In fact, historical evidence suggests the red-and-white variety came first and was already used for bird hunting as early as the 1600s.
Over time, the solid-red Irish Setter became more fashionable among hunters, causing the red-and-white variety to decline sharply—nearly to extinction. Fortunately, dedicated Irish breeders began reviving the breed in the 1920s. After decades of careful work, the breed was successfully restored and officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2009.
Breed Overview
- Group: Sporting
- Height: 22.5 to 26 inches
- Weight: 35 to 60 pounds
- Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, energetic, eager to please
- Coat and Color: Medium-length with feathering; red or copper with white
- Energy Level: High
- Life Span: 11 to 15 years
03. Irish Setter
The Irish Setter has been a favorite hunting companion in Ireland since the early 19th century. It is widely believed that selective breeding of Irish Red and White Setters eventually produced dogs with more solid red coats, leading to the modern Irish Setter we know today.
Traditionally used as a gun dog, this breed excels at locating and retrieving birds for hunters. Even today, its natural athleticism and sharp instincts make it highly capable in the field.
Breed Overview
- Group: Sporting
- Height: 25 to 27 inches
- Weight: 60 to 70 pounds
- Temperament: Affectionate, intelligent, athletic, gentle, sweet-tempered
- Coat and Color: Medium-length with feathering; red or copper
- Energy Level: High
- Life Span: 12 to 15 years
04. Irish Terrier
The Irish Terrier is considered one of the oldest terrier breeds. Historically, it played an important role on farms, helping control vermin populations while also acting as a reliable guard dog.
Although it’s not as commonly seen today, the breed was once extremely popular. Its dense, wiry coat sheds very little, which can make it a suitable option for people who are sensitive to pet dander.
Breed Overview
- Group: Terrier
- Height: 18 to 20 inches
- Weight: 25 to 28 pounds
- Temperament: Intelligent, lively, protective, trainable, dominant, respectful
- Coat: Dense, wiry outer coat with soft undercoat
- Coat Color: Bright red, golden red, red wheaten, or wheaten
- Life Span: 13 to 15 years
05. Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel was developed in Dublin during the 1860s by a sportsman named Justin McCarthy. One of his dogs, Boatswain, is considered the foundation of the modern breed.
Although it’s relatively rare today, the Irish Water Spaniel was once widely popular and was among the first nine breeds officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1884.
Breed Overview
- Group: Sporting
- Height: 21 to 24 inches
- Weight: 45 to 68 pounds
- Temperament: Alert, curious, playful, affectionate, active
- Energy Level: High
- Coat and Color: Dense, tight curls; solid liver (brown)
- Life Span: 12 to 13 years
06. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is not only the tallest dog breed in the world but also one of the most historically significant. References to its ancestors can be traced back to Ireland as early as the 5th century.
In ancient times, ownership of these dogs was limited to nobility and royalty. They were used to hunt large and dangerous game, including elk, wild boar, and wolves.
Breed Overview
- Group: Hound
- Height: At least 30 inches (female), 32 inches or more (male)
- Weight: 105 pounds (female), 120 pounds (male)
- Temperament: Courageous, calm, even-tempered
- Energy Level: Low
- Coat and Color: Medium-length, wiry; various colors
- Life Span: 6 to 8 years
07. Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier originated in County Kerry over a century ago. One popular theory suggests that because only nobles were allowed to hunt with Irish Wolfhounds, common people developed their own versatile hunting dogs—leading to the creation of this breed.
Known for its intelligence and loyalty, the Kerry Blue Terrier is easily recognized by its distinctive blue-gray coat, which becomes more pronounced as the dog matures.
Breed Overview
- Group: Terrier
- Height: 17 to 19 inches
- Weight: 30 to 40 pounds
- Temperament: Loyal, alert, attentive, bright
- Coat and Color: Soft, wavy, blue-gray coat
- Life Span: 12 to 15 years
08. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier was originally bred as a multi-purpose farm dog in Ireland. It handled tasks like catching rodents, guarding property, and protecting livestock.
Today, this breed is far more likely to be found as a devoted family companion. Unlike most terriers, its coat is soft and silky instead of wiry. While it sheds very little, it does require daily brushing and regular grooming to keep it in good condition.
Breed Overview
- Group: Terrier
- Height: 17 to 19 inches
- Weight: 30 to 40 pounds
- Temperament: Friendly, lively, affectionate
- Coat and Color: Silky, wavy coat in wheaten
- Energy Level: Medium to high
- Life Span: 12 to 14 years
09. Kerry Beagle
The Kerry Beagle is one of Ireland’s oldest native breeds and may date back to early Celtic settlements. Traditionally, these dogs were used for hunting large game such as deer.
Although not widely seen outside Ireland and not officially recognized by the American Kennel Club, the Kerry Beagle is believed to share ancestry with other hounds like the English Foxhound and the Black and Tan Coonhound. While it isn’t directly related to the Beagle, they may have distant common ancestors.
Breed Overview
- Group: Hound
- Height: 22 to 24 inches
- Weight: 50 to 60 pounds
- Temperament: Courageous, calm, even-tempered
- Energy Level: Low
- Coat and Color: Short, smooth; multiple color variations
- Life Span: 10 to 14 years
