Temperament and care ratings
The American Kennel Club rates every breed from 1 to 5 on the traits below. They describe how the breed tends to be, not a promise about one dog.
Coat: Wiry coat, medium.
A Irish Terrier suits
- A family with young children (rated 5 of 5 with kids)
- A home that changes often, or apartment life (adaptability 4 of 5)
- People who hate dog hair on the sofa (shedding 2 of 5)
- Anyone who wants a natural watchdog (protective nature 5 of 5)
Think twice if
- You can't offer daily training or puzzle games (mental stimulation needs 4 of 5)
- You have other dogs: rated 1 of 5 with other dogs
What the ratings mean day to day
An energy score of 3 and mental stimulation needs of 4 mean a good daily walk and some play. With barking at 3 of 5 and a watchdog score of 5, expect some barking at the door. Grooming at 1 of 5 means an occasional brush.
Popularity
In 2020 it ranked 120.
Breeds with a similar profile
Closest matches across all 14 trait ratings:
Rhodesian RidgebackKidsEnergyShedding
Curly-Coated RetrieverKidsEnergyShedding
LöwchenKidsEnergySheddingCompare: Irish Terrier vs Rhodesian Ridgeback · Irish Terrier vs Curly-Coated Retriever · Irish Terrier vs Löwchen
Frequently asked questions
Are Irish Terriers good with kids?
The AKC rates the Irish Terrier 5 out of 5 for being good with young children. That is the top score.
Do Irish Terriers shed a lot?
Shedding is rated 2 out of 5 (low), and coat grooming 1 out of 5.
Are Irish Terriers easy to train?
Trainability is rated 3 out of 5 and mental stimulation needs 4 out of 5.
How much energy does a Irish Terrier have?
Energy is rated 3 out of 5 and playfulness 3 out of 5.
Ratings: American Kennel Club breed pages, compiled February 2022 (AKC Irish Terrier page). 2025 ranking: AKC, published August 2026. How we check.