The 11 Most Popular Irish Dog Breeds

The Irish are proud people and the same can be said about Irish dogs too! The canines native to the Emerald Isle all share a common homeland, but they couldn’t be more unique. From terriers to hounds, these proud pooches come from humble beginnings and have made their mark far beyond Ireland’s borders. So get ready ladies and lads, it’s time to discover the most popular Irish dog breeds. Sláinte!

11. Irish Lurcher

While the lurcher is not recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) — it’s a cross between a few different breeds — it’s still considered one of the oldest dogs in Ireland. Back in the 1600s, these sighthounds were used to hunt small game like rabbits and hares. Now, this Irish dog is a companion animal perfectly content to curl up on the couch with you and your family. Just make sure they get a good walk in each day to keep them healthy and stimulated.

10. Irish Collie

Another unrecognized AKC breed, the Irish collie is a lively, intelligent, and hard-working dog. Often seen helping sheep farmers herd their flock, this breed is thought to have originated from the Emerald Isle before being brought to Scotland. Iris Combe, a well-renowned show judge and founder of two collie clubs, presented this argument in her book. Fun fact: The Irish word “coileán” translates to puppy and “collie” is a Gaelic term for anything useful.

9. Kerry Beagle

Another one of the oldest Irish hound breeds, the Kerry beagle, is also not recognized by the AKC. However, it is still a popular dog in Ireland. You might notice some similarities between a beagle and a Kerry beagle, but they are not the same. Kerry beagles stand taller — around 2 feet — and weigh around 60 pounds. This makes them nearly double the size of a beagle!

8. Irish Water Spaniel

The Irish water spaniel goes by a few other names such as the “whiptail spaniel” and “rat tail spaniel.” It’s for good reason! This Irish dog has a smooth face with a distinctive curly coat that tapers off at the end of its rat-like tail. Looks aside, this is a working breed best suited for water sports or fieldwork. Irish water spaniels are protective of their family but are otherwise friendly canines for companionship.

7. Glen of Imaal Terrier

Also called the Wicklow terrier, the Glen of Imaal Terrier gets its name from a valley in the Wicklow Mountains of Ireland. This is a working dog with a courageous spirit, bred to hunt badgers. However, its docile nature also makes it an excellent family pet. If you want a rugged yet ridiculously adorable pup, this Irish dog is the answer.

6. Irish Red and White Setter

Bred to be a bird dog, the Irish red and white setter is as athletic as it is easy to spot from a distance. Though they may look similar to the Irish setter, they are shorter and stockier canines. The Irish setter also became more popular, almost bringing the red and white setter to extinction. Luckily that didn’t happen and the breed became recognized by the AKC in 2009.

5. Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry blue terrier was developed as an Irish farm dog, but quickly made its way inside the home as a people-oriented companion animal. A prized small game hunter, retriever, and watchdog breed, Kerries are wonderful all-around canines. Popular sports to compete in with your Kerry blue terrier include herding, barn hunting, obedience, and dock diving. Their smart and adaptable nature is a complement to the beauty of this breed.

4. Irish Terrier

With the Irish terrier, you get the best of both worlds. They are fantastic working dogs with a courageous spirit as bold as their coat and also have a soft spot for their humans. This breed was famously used as messengers in World War I but is mainly a rat hunter, watchdog, or companion animal today.

3. Irish Wolfhound

Dignified, strong, and even-tempered, the Irish wolfhound is a beloved dog around the world. Since they stand almost 3 feet tall and can weigh up to 180 pounds, you might think they make excellent guard dogs. Think again! Irish wolfhounds were bred as sighthounds to hunt wolves, but now their incredibly agreeable and patient nature makes them wonderful family dogs. Just be cautious with small children around them because of their large size.

2. Irish Setter

Of the 201 AKC breeds, the Irish setter ranks as the 71st most popular dog (as of 2022). It’s easy to see why just by looking at this beautiful breed. Their flashy coat, bold nature, and playful spirit make them a popular choice for hunters and families alike. An Irish setter named King Timahoe even lived in the White House during Nixon’s presidency!

1. Soft-Coated Wheaton Terrier

The most popular Irish dog breed? The wheaten terrier! The hallmark traits of this cheery canine include utter devotion to its owner, quick wit when working as a rat or bird dog, and a stubborn yet willing attitude. They’re terriers after all! As the most loved of all Irish dog breeds, the best way to sum up the soft-coated wheaten terrier is how many others do: This breed is “an iron fist in a velvet glove.

Summary of the 11 Most Popular Irish Dog Breeds

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