Airedale Terrier vs Irish Terrier

Terrier · Large vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Airedale Terrier is the larger breed at 50–70 lbs (males) vs 27 lbs for the Irish Terrier.
  • The Irish Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).

Side-by-side traits

TraitAiredale TerrierIrish Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
EnglandIreland
Height (male)
23"18"
Height (female)
22"18"
Weight (male)
50–70 lbs27 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–14 years13–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is a friendly, clever, courageous 'King of Terriers' — the largest of the terrier clan from Yorkshire. Originally from England, this large terrier breed typically weighs 50–70 lbs and lives 11–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, clever, courageous.

About the Irish Terrier

The Irish Terrier is a bold, dashing, tenderhearted Irish 'daredevil' — fiery red-coated farm dog and WWI message-runner. Originally from Ireland, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 27 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as bold, dashing, tenderhearted.

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Airedale Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Skin issues

Irish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hyperkeratosis
  • Eye disorders