Irish Terrier vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Terrier · Medium vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • Pembroke Welsh Corgi is the larger breed at 24–30 lbs (males) vs 27 lbs for the Irish Terrier.
  • The Irish Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The Irish Terrier sheds less.
  • The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish TerrierPembroke Welsh Corgi
Group
TerrierHerding
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
IrelandWales
Height (male)
18"10–12"
Height (female)
18"10–12"
Weight (male)
27 lbs24–30 lbs
Weight (female)
25 lbs24–28 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–15 years12–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
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)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)High (4/5)
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
wirehairedmedium
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 Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a smart, alert, affectionate herder on stumpy legs — the favorite breed of Queen Elizabeth II. Originally from Wales, this small herding breed typically weighs 24–30 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as smart, alert, affectionate.

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Irish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hyperkeratosis
  • Eye disorders

Pembroke Welsh Corgi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • IVDD
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Degenerative myelopathy
  • Obesity