Irish dog breeds were used for the pursuit of game and to protect flocks from wolves. So, today I present the nine native dog breeds of Ireland.
#1 Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is one of the largest of all breeds of dog, and it makes for an effective and imposing guardian. They are classified as sight hounds, meaning that they hunt by sight.
They are not always good with other animals, especially smaller ones.
You should know that they are the ideal pet for families who have experience with the breed.
These dogs also need room to stretch out and be comfortable.
The pure Irish wolfhound comes in various colors, from cream to black.
#2 Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is a swift-moving hunter that is known for having a friendly temperament.
As far as I know, the Irish Setter was developed from the Gordon Setter, the English Setter, and the Pointer. The breed’s early bloodlines are probably to have included an assortment of gundogs.
Many Irish setters compete in dog sports, and they do pretty well in hunt andobedience tests. The Irish Setter is outgoing and most definitely not shy.
#3 Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is the tallest of the spaniels and is referred to as the clown of the Spaniel family. According to Irish folklore, the Irish Water Spaniel is a descendant of the Dobhar-chú, an enormous half-fish, half-dog that terrorises murky waters.
The IWS was traditionally used as a hunting and retrieving dog, especially for waterfowl.
Irish Water Spaniel is a real one-of-a-kind with a distinctive curly coat and hairless “rat tail.” The breed has lots of stamina and enthusiasm for outdoor activities.
#4 Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier was originally bred to control vermin. They are loyal and affectionate towards their owners. Kerry Blue Terriers have a lot of energy and want to play all the time.
In 1924, the breed was officially recognized.
In 2025, a nine-year-old Kerry Blue Terrier named Betty and her owner, Shona Marshall, completed all of Scotland’s summits and the highest peaks in Wales, Ireland, and England. “Because she is so prey-driven, she’s always on a lead in the hills,” said Marshall about Betty.
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American Dog Breeds (Native, North, South)
#5 Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a sound, medium-sized breed that wants to be included in everything you do. The Wheaten is an intelligent breed that requires consistent positive training.
Fun fact: You won’t need to bribe this dog to come out and play.
They are also called the “Poor Man’s Wolfhound.” Irish peasants owned Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers since they were not permitted to own hounds. Wheatens tolerate other dogs and cats well, especially if raised with them.
#6 Irish Terrier
The Irish Terrier is one of the oldest terrier breeds. It has served as a popular gun dog in Ireland since the early 1800s.
The Irish Setter was recognized by the AKC at its inception in 1878. The breed is known for its wiry and dense red coat, which needs combing one or two times weekly.
Most exemplaries of this breed love children and tolerate rough-housing to a certain extent. You must know that Irish Terriers don’t always get on well with other animals you have around your home. Irish Terriers have the inconvenient trait of repeatedly challenging the pack leader’s authority, aka you, the owner.
They can excel in all sorts of canine competitions, and live an average of 13 to 15 years.
#7 Glen of Imaal Terrier
Glen of Imaal Terriers were developed in Ireland during the reign of Elizabeth I to hunt fox and badger, and to keep homes free of rodents.
The breed gets its name from a valley in the Wicklow Mountains of Ireland. The Glen of Imaal Terrier was not established in America until the 1980s.
Glens are very rare today, with possibly only a couple of thousand left in the world.
They have wiry double coats that come in just two colors: blue brindle and wheaten.
#8 Irish Red and White Setter
The Irish Red and White Setter is the less famous relative of the Irish Setter. It reached near extinction (classified as a “vulnerable” breed) until the breed was revived in the 1920s.
In early 2020, the population of Irish Red and White Setters was boosted by the arrival of 10 new puppies to a breeder with more than two decades of experience.
Their white coat in particular makes them stand out and consequently. Their exercise needs make them unsuitable for apartment living. Irish Red and White Setters also have the great ability to naturally adjust to new hunting conditions and terrain.
#9 Kerry Beagle
The Kerry Beagle is a small hound with pedigrees dating back to the late 19th century. Kerry Beagles have an amazing sense of smell to follow trails and require a lot of exercise.
I recommend taking your Kerry Beagle for regular 2 to 3 daily walks and free runs.
This is the only scenthound that is found in Ireland.
Currently, Kerry Beagles are used to take part in drag hunting and hunt fox and hare.