Australian Terrier vs Irish Wolfhound
Terrier · Small vs Hound · Giant
Australian TerrierSmall
A spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under.
Weight: 15–20 lbsLifespan: 11–15 years
Irish WolfhoundGiant
A courageous, dignified, calm gentle giant — the tallest of all dogs, ancient Celtic war and hunting hound.
Weight: 120 lbsLifespan: 6–8 years
Quick take
- • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 15–20 lbs for the Australian Terrier.
- • The Australian Terrier typically lives longer (11–15 years).
- • The Australian Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Australian Terrier sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Australian Terrier | Irish Wolfhound |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Hound |
Size | Small | Giant |
Origin | Australia | Ireland |
Height (male) | 10–11" | 32–34" |
Height (female) | 10–11" | 30–32" |
Weight (male) | 15–20 lbs | 120 lbs |
Weight (female) | 15–20 lbs | 105 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 11–15 years | 6–8 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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About the Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under. Originally from Australia, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, alert, courageous.
About the Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is a courageous, dignified, calm gentle giant — the tallest of all dogs, ancient Celtic war and hunting hound. Originally from Ireland, this giant hound breed typically weighs 120 lbs and lives 6–8 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, dignified, calm.
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Australian Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Diabetes
- • Allergies
Irish Wolfhound health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Bone cancer
- • Heart disease
- • Bloat
- • Hip dysplasia