Irish Terrier vs Morkie

Terrier · Medium vs Miscellaneous · Toy

Quick take
  • Irish Terrier is the larger breed at 27 lbs (males) vs 4–8 lbs for the Morkie.
  • The Irish Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The Irish Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish TerrierMorkie
Group
TerrierMiscellaneous
Size
MediumToy
Origin
IrelandUSA
Height (male)
18"4–8"
Height (female)
18"4–8"
Weight (male)
27 lbs4–8 lbs
Weight (female)
25 lbs4–8 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–15 years10–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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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 Morkie

The Morkie is a spunky, affectionate, confident Maltese × Yorkie hybrid — pint-size companion with big personality. Originally from USA, this toy miscellaneous breed typically weighs 4–8 lbs and lives 10–13 years. Breeders describe them as spunky, affectionate, confident.

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Irish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hyperkeratosis
  • Eye disorders

Morkie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Hypoglycemia