Dog Breeds from Ireland
6 breeds originated in Ireland. Explore them all below, ranked by AKC popularity.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
A happy, friendly terrier with a distinctive silky wheaten coat. Wheatens are exuberant greeters known for their 'Wheaten welcome' โ jumping up to say hello with boundless enthusiasm.
Irish Setter
A stunning, flame-coated sporting dog known for grace and boundless enthusiasm. Irish Setters are outgoing, sweet-natured family dogs that love long runs and outdoor adventures.
Irish Wolfhound
The tallest of all dog breeds, this gentle giant was originally bred to hunt wolves. Irish Wolfhounds are serene, courageous, and deeply devoted, combining imposing size with a sweet temperament.
Kerry Blue Terrier
An all-purpose Irish farm dog with a distinctive soft, wavy blue-gray coat that doesn't shed. Kerry Blues are spirited, people-oriented terriers that excel at everything from herding to companionship.
Irish Water Spaniel
The tallest of all spaniels, with a distinctive curly liver coat and a rat-like tail. Irish Water Spaniels are hardworking retrievers with a clownish sense of humor and a natural love of water.
Glen of Imaal Terrier
A sturdy, dwarf-legged terrier from a remote Irish valley, bred for silent, tenacious badger hunting. Glens are gentler and quieter than most terriers, with a strong work ethic and a calm home presence.