Irish Terrier vs Labrador Retriever
Terrier · Medium vs Sporting · Large
Irish TerrierMedium
A bold, dashing, tenderhearted Irish 'daredevil' — fiery red-coated farm dog and WWI message-runner.
Weight: 27 lbsLifespan: 13–15 years
Labrador RetrieverLarge
America's most popular dog — a friendly, outgoing, athletic retriever bred to fetch waterfowl.
Weight: 65–80 lbsLifespan: 11–13 years
Quick take
- • Labrador Retriever is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 27 lbs for the Irish Terrier.
- • The Irish Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
- • The Labrador Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Irish Terrier sheds less.
- • The Labrador Retriever is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Irish Terrier | Labrador Retriever |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Sporting |
Size | Medium | Large |
Origin | Ireland | Canada |
Height (male) | 18" | 22.5–24.5" |
Height (female) | 18" | 21.5–23.5" |
Weight (male) | 27 lbs | 65–80 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25 lbs | 55–70 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 13–15 years | 11–13 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | High (4/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Low (2/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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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.
About the Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is america's most popular dog — a friendly, outgoing, athletic retriever bred to fetch waterfowl. Originally from Canada, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, active, outgoing, even-tempered.
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Irish Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Hyperkeratosis
- • Eye disorders
Labrador Retriever health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Elbow dysplasia
- • Obesity
- • Progressive retinal atrophy