Irish Terrier vs Manchester Terrier

Terrier · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Irish Terrier is the larger breed at 27 lbs (males) vs 12–22 lbs for the Manchester Terrier.
  • The Manchester Terrier typically lives longer (15–17 years).
  • The Irish Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish TerrierManchester Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
IrelandEngland
Height (male)
18"15–16"
Height (female)
18"15–16"
Weight (male)
27 lbs12–22 lbs
Weight (female)
25 lbs12–22 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–15 years15–17 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)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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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 Manchester Terrier

The Manchester Terrier is a keen, devoted, observant English ratter — sleek black-and-tan terrier, gentleman's rat-pit champion. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 12–22 lbs and lives 15–17 years. Breeders describe them as keen, devoted, observant.

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Irish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hyperkeratosis
  • Eye disorders

Manchester Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Von Willebrand's disease
  • Heart problems
  • Eye disorders