Irish Terrier vs Toy Poodle

Terrier · Medium vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Irish Terrier is the larger breed at 27 lbs (males) vs 4–6 lbs for the Toy Poodle.
  • The Toy Poodle is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish TerrierToy Poodle
Group
TerrierToy
Size
MediumToy
Origin
IrelandGermany
Height (male)
18"9–10"
Height (female)
18"9–10"
Weight (male)
27 lbs4–6 lbs
Weight (female)
25 lbs4–6 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–15 years10–18 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)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)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 Toy Poodle

The Toy Poodle is an active, intelligent, lively toy version of the Poodle — apartment-friendly hypoallergenic charmer. Originally from Germany, this toy toy breed typically weighs 4–6 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, intelligent, lively.

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Irish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hyperkeratosis
  • Eye disorders

Toy Poodle health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Eye disorders
  • Dental issues