German Shorthaired Pointer vs Irish Terrier
Sporting · Large vs Terrier · Medium
German Shorthaired PointerLarge
A friendly, smart, willing-to-please all-around hunting and family dog with a liver-spotted coat.
Weight: 55–70 lbsLifespan: 10–12 years
Irish TerrierMedium
A bold, dashing, tenderhearted Irish 'daredevil' — fiery red-coated farm dog and WWI message-runner.
Weight: 27 lbsLifespan: 13–15 years
Quick take
- • German Shorthaired Pointer is the larger breed at 55–70 lbs (males) vs 27 lbs for the Irish Terrier.
- • The Irish Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
- • The German Shorthaired Pointer has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Irish Terrier sheds less.
- • The German Shorthaired Pointer is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | German Shorthaired Pointer | Irish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Terrier |
Size | Large | Medium |
Origin | Germany | Ireland |
Height (male) | 23–25" | 18" |
Height (female) | 21–23" | 18" |
Weight (male) | 55–70 lbs | 27 lbs |
Weight (female) | 45–60 lbs | 25 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–12 years | 13–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very Low (1/5) | 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. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | short | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
Ad slot · compare-mid
About the German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a friendly, smart, willing-to-please all-around hunting and family dog with a liver-spotted coat. Originally from Germany, this large sporting breed typically weighs 55–70 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, smart, willing to please.
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.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
German Shorthaired Pointer health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Eye conditions
- • Lymphedema
Irish Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Hyperkeratosis
- • Eye disorders