Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Overview
The Irish Terrier is one of the oldest terrier breeds, developed in Ireland and known since the 18th century. It descended from ancient working terriers used for hunting foxes, otters, and rats, as well as for guarding homes and livestock. The breed quickly gained popularity due to its versatility—endurance, courage, and loyalty to humans. In the 1870s, the Irish Terrier became the first Irish breed officially recognized in Great Britain and soon earned recognition throughout Europe. During World War I, it served as a messenger and service dog. Today, the Irish Terrier preserves its innate bravery, liveliness, and devotion, remaining a faithful companion and symbol of Irish spirit.
General Appearance
The Irish Terrier is a graceful, elegant, yet muscular medium-sized dog with noble lines and a lively expression. It has a strong build without heaviness, showing a perfect balance of power and agility. The head is long and dry, with a keen expression and dark, intelligent eyes. The ears are small, V-shaped, and folded forward. The body is firm, straight, with a deep chest and a slightly tucked-up belly. The coat is harsh, dense, and straight, with a soft undercoat. Movement is free, light, and energetic. The Irish Terrier gives an impression of confidence, courage, and nobility, combined with an even temperament and strong character.
Important Proportions
The Irish Terrier displays balanced proportions that reflect the harmony of strength and elegance. The height at the withers is approximately equal to the body length, giving a nearly square outline. The head is long and narrow but proportional to the body; the muzzle is nearly equal in length to the skull. The chest is deep but not broad, reaching the elbows. The back is short, strong, and straight; the loin is muscular and slightly arched. Limbs are straight and strong, with well-angled joints ensuring freedom of movement. The tail is set high, continuing the topline. All proportions convey endurance, mobility, and balance.
Behavior and Temperament
The Irish Terrier is a courageous, energetic, and loyal dog, combining sharp intelligence with a kind and determined spirit. It is affectionate toward its family but brave and fearless when needed. The breed embodies the essence of the working terrier—alert, confident, and always ready for action. Despite its fiery temperament, it remains even-tempered, devoted, and easy to train. The Irish Terrier is a true blend of loyalty, nobility, and vitality, making it both an excellent companion and a capable working dog.
Head
The head is long, dry, and in proportion to the body, expressing determination and intelligence. The skull is flat and narrow, with a smooth stop. The muzzle is strong, straight, and nearly equal in length to the skull, tapering slightly toward the black nose. Cheeks are flat, lips are tight and thin. Jaws are powerful, with a correct scissor bite and strong, white teeth. Eyes are dark, small, and keen, showing confidence and alertness. The head overall conveys nobility, energy, and courage without coarseness.
Foreface
The foreface is strong yet refined, showing expression and resolve. The muzzle is long, straight, deep, and powerful, nearly equal in length to the skull. The nose is large and always black, with open nostrils. Lips are thin and tight; jaws are firm, with a full set of even teeth and a scissor bite. The chin is defined but not coarse. Cheeks are dry, with tight skin. The muzzle is covered with wiry hair forming the characteristic “mustache” and “beard,” giving the dog a bold, masculine look.
Eyes
The eyes are small, dark, almond-shaped, and set straight, not deep. The expression is lively, intelligent, and brave. Light, round, or protruding eyes are faults. Eyelids are tight and dark, enhancing expressiveness. The eyes must reflect the terrier’s temperament—attentive, determined, and kind—giving the breed its characteristic charm.
Ears
The ears are small, V-shaped, set moderately high, and fine in texture. When relaxed, they lie close to the cheeks; when alert, they fold slightly forward toward the eyes, giving an attentive expression. Oversized, heavy, or erect ears are faults, as are too low or too high set ears. The inner side is covered with fine, soft hair, the outer with harsh coat. Correct ear carriage emphasizes the breed’s intelligence and alertness.
Neck
The neck is of medium length, dry, muscular, and slightly arched, blending smoothly into the shoulders. It gives the dog a proud posture and underlines its noble outline. The skin is tight, without wrinkles or dewlap. The topline is smooth and elegant, contributing to balance and grace. The neck should be long enough to allow free movement and head carriage during work.
Body
The body is strong, compact, and well-proportioned, combining power and agility. The back is straight, short, and firm, without dips or arches. The withers are pronounced, the loin short and muscular. The chest is deep but not broad; ribs are moderately sprung. The belly is slightly tucked up, creating a sporty silhouette. The croup is slightly sloping, strong, and muscular. All lines are harmonious, expressing endurance and liveliness.
Tail
The tail is set high, strong at the base, straight, and carried proudly without curl or bend. Traditionally docked to moderate length, though natural tails are acceptable if balanced. At rest, the tail may hang; when alert, it is held erect, showing confidence. Low-set, curved, or long tails are faults. Covered with dense, harsh coat.
Forequarters
The forelegs are straight, strong, and well-boned with good musculature. Shoulders are long and sloping, lying close to the ribcage, forming the correct angle with the upper arm. Elbows point straight back, not turned in or out. Pasterns are short, slightly sloping. Feet are compact and round, with thick pads and strong nails.
Hindquarters
The hindquarters are powerful, muscular, and balanced, giving the dog drive and stability. Thighs are long and strong, stifles well-bent, hocks low and firm. Metatarsi are short and vertical. Feet are compact and round. Correct construction ensures efficient movement, endurance, and power.
Gait and Movement
The gait is free, light, and confident, with strong rear drive and good front reach. Movement is straight, rhythmic, and smooth, without stiffness or sway. The back remains firm, and the tail is carried high, emphasizing alertness and confidence. The Irish Terrier’s gait demonstrates energy, coordination, and stamina, reflecting its working nature.
Coat
The coat consists of a dense, harsh outer layer and a soft, thick undercoat. The topcoat is straight, close-fitting, and weather-resistant. The texture is rough, never soft or wavy. The muzzle carries a distinctive “beard” and “mustache,” giving a masculine expression. Soft, curly, or sparse coats, and lack of undercoat are faults. Regular hand-stripping is essential to maintain correct texture and density.
Permitted Colors
The color is solid and rich, ranging from bright red to golden red or wheaten red. The shade must be uniform throughout the body. A small white patch on the chest is permissible but not desirable. Black, brindle, liver, or multicolored coats are disqualifying. The coat should be shiny, dense, and highlight the breed’s elegance.
Size
The Irish Terrier is a medium-sized, well-proportioned dog. Height at the withers is 45–48 cm. Weight is about 11–12 kg for females and up to 13 kg for males. The build is strong but not heavy, with firm muscles and solid bone. The overall impression should be one of strength, agility, and balance.
Faults
Faults include any deviations from the standard that disturb balance or type: weak bone, soft or wavy coat, sparse undercoat, pale or uneven color, light or round eyes, large or erect ears, short or coarse muzzle, shallow chest, weak back, or narrow limbs. In temperament—aggressiveness, shyness, or apathy are faults.
Disqualifications
Disqualifying faults include incorrect bite (overshot or undershot), jaw deformities, nose depigmentation, blue or heterochromatic eyes, albinism, and serious hearing or vision defects. Disallowed colors—black, brindle, liver, spotted, or with large white patches—lead to disqualification. Dogs showing fearfulness, uncontrolled aggression, or abnormal behavior are also excluded. Only ICCF-registered dogs with verified pedigrees may be shown or bred.
Important Notes
When evaluating the Irish Terrier, emphasis is placed on body harmony, harsh coat texture, uniform color, and confident demeanor. The dog must be active, brave, and even-tempered, without aggression or timidity. Correct head expression and body proportions are essential. The breed should remain functional and not overly decorative. Endurance, flexibility, and temperament are highly valued.
Conclusion
The Irish Terrier is a noble, courageous, and energetic breed that combines the endurance of a working terrier with the loyalty of a devoted companion. It is healthy, balanced, and self-assured, with a strong personality and deep attachment to its family. With proper upbringing, the Irish Terrier becomes a reliable partner and faithful protector. Only ICCF-registered dogs with verified pedigrees that meet the international standard are eligible for breeding and exhibition.
