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Irish Terrier grooming: brushing, bathing and shedding

A practical grooming routine for the Irish Terrier: coat care, baths, nails and ears.

Traditionally the Irish Terrier's harsh coat is hand stripped two to three times a year, with light tidying in between, which keeps the texture wiry and the color rich. Many pet owners choose clipping instead. It is quicker and cheaper, but it softens the coat and dulls the red over time.

Brush weekly with a slicker brush and comb through the beard and legs. Shedding stays low when the coat is stripped, because dead hair comes out during grooming rather than on the carpet. Bathe only when needed, trim nails monthly and check ears and teeth regularly.

Irish Terrier grooming in numbers

This is an illustrative schedule based on our editorial grooming score, not a breed-specific care protocol. Coat condition, skin problems and professional advice may call for a different routine.

TaskPlanning example
Brushing2 to 3 times a week
BathingEvery 6 to 8 weeks
SheddingLight
Nail trimEvery 3 to 4 weeks
Ear checkEvery 2 weeks
TeethDaily brushing; introduce gently and ask your vet if the mouth seems painful

Coat

Dense, wiry and harsh outer coat that lies close to the body, with a softer undercoat and a short beard.

Grooming needs

Shedding

Drooling

Grooming guides for similar-sized breeds