Greyhound vs Irish Terrier

Hound · Large vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Greyhound is the larger breed at 65–70 lbs (males) vs 27 lbs for the Irish Terrier.
  • The Irish Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The Irish Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Irish Terrier sheds less.
  • The Irish Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitGreyhoundIrish Terrier
Group
HoundTerrier
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
EgyptIreland
Height (male)
28–30"18"
Height (female)
27–28"18"
Weight (male)
65–70 lbs27 lbs
Weight (female)
60–65 lbs25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–13 years13–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Low (2/5)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.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Greyhound

The Greyhound is a gentle, independent, noble sighthound — the fastest dog (45 mph) and biggest couch potato off-track. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 65–70 lbs and lives 10–13 years. Breeders describe them as gentle, independent, noble.

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

Greyhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Bone cancer
  • Anesthesia sensitivity

Irish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hyperkeratosis
  • Eye disorders