Irish Terrier vs Poodle
Discover the differences between Irish Terrier and Poodle to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Irish Terrier
Bold, spirited, and affectionate, this breed thrives on adventure and close bonds with its family. Quick-witted and loyal, it brings lively energy to any home.
Poodle
Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.
Quick comparison
Medium
12–14 kg
Dense, wiry
13–15 years
11–13 kg
High energy
Medium
20–32 kg
Curly, dense
12–15 years
18–27 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Irish Terrier
Outgoing with family, may be wary of strangers
Quick learner, responds well to training
Very energetic, needs daily exercise
Enjoys games and interactive playtime
Can adjust but prefers stable environments
Poodle
Warm and sociable with family and guests
Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands
Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise
Loves games and interactive playtime
Easily adjusts to new environments and routines
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Irish Terrier
Hypothyroidism, cataracts
Poodle
Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Irish Terrier
Moderately challenging
Needs confident, consistent training and early socialization
Manageable with effort
Can adapt to apartments if exercised daily
Excellent fit
Thrives with active owners and regular exercise
Good with guidance
Generally tolerant but supervision with small children is needed
Can be difficult
May show aggression toward other dogs and small pets
Not recommended
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may become destructive
Poodle
Great choice
Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.
Highly suitable
Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Perfect fit
Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.
Very friendly
Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.
Gets along well
Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.
Prone to anxiety
Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Irish Terrier
- Loyal to family and children
- Alert and makes a good watchdog
- Athletic and enjoys vigorous exercise
- Low grooming needs with wiry coat
- Intelligent and learns commands quickly
Poodle
- Highly intelligent and easy to train
- Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
- Strong bond with family members
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Excellent performance in canine sports
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Irish Terrier
- Can be aggressive toward other dogs
- Needs consistent mental and physical stimulation
- Prone to chasing small animals instinctively
- May be stubborn during training sessions
- Sensitive to harsh correction or shouting
Poodle
- Requires regular professional grooming
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
- Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
- Susceptible to certain genetic health issues
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