Scottish Terrier
VS
Irish Terrier
Scottish Terrier vs Irish Terrier
Compare Scottish Terrier and Irish Terrier side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Scottish Terrier
Irish Terrier
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
25 – 28 cm
44 – 50 cm
Weight
8 – 11 kg
11 – 15 kg
Life expectancy
13 – 14 years
13 – 15 years
Child friendly
4/5
5/5
Energy level
3/5
4/5
Intelligence
5/5
4/5
Trainability
2/5
2/5
Health
2/5
4/5
Grooming needs
4/5
3/5
Shedding
2/5
1/5
Barking level
4/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
3/5
Characteristics
Scottish Terrier
Great with kids
Super smart
Stubborn
Small
Irish Terrier
Great with kids
High energy
Super smart
Stubborn
Medium
Summary
About Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers are small, sturdy, low‑slung dogs originally bred in Scotland to hunt vermin. Recognizable by their long head, prick ears, and wiry double coat, they are loyal, independent, and reserved with strangers. They need regular grooming, moderate exercise, and patient, positive training.
About Irish Terrier
Medium, athletic terrier with a wiry red coat, low shedding when properly groomed. Intelligent, energetic, and independent, needing daily exercise and mental stimulation. Deeply loyal and people‑oriented, a keen watchdog, with strong prey drive and sometimes challenging with other dogs.
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