Aussiedoodle vs Irish Terrier

Choosing between Aussiedoodle and Irish Terrier? These two are closely matched on size and energy, so your decision comes down to the finer points — grooming, shedding, trainability and how each fits your household. Below we break down exactly how the two breeds compare on the things that shape daily life with a dog, so you can see which one is the better fit for your home, family and routine.

Aussiedoodle vs Irish Terrier: full comparison

TraitAussiedoodleIrish Terrier
SizeMediumMedium
Energy levelVery HighVery High
TrainabilityVery HighMedium
FriendlinessHighHigh
Good with childrenHighHigh
Grooming needsHighMedium
SheddingLowLow
BarkingMediumMedium
ProtectivenessMediumHigh
AdaptabilityMediumMedium
Typical lifespan12 years14 years
HypoallergenicYesNo

Key differences at a glance

Size and living space

The Aussiedoodle is a mid-sized breed that is comfortable in most homes, though a bit of space and a yard are welcome. By comparison, the Irish Terrier is a mid-sized breed that is comfortable in most homes, though a bit of space and a yard are welcome. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Aussiedoodle is a true athlete that needs intense daily exercise and a job to do, or it will get restless. The Irish Terrier is a true athlete that needs intense daily exercise and a job to do, or it will get restless. Their exercise needs are broadly the same, so this is unlikely to be a deciding factor.

Grooming and shedding

The Aussiedoodle needs plenty of coat work, including trips to a groomer and drops very little hair. The Irish Terrier needs consistent brushing to keep the coat healthy and drops very little hair. The Aussiedoodle is also considered hypoallergenic, an advantage for allergy sufferers. If low upkeep matters to you, factor this in — the difference adds up over a dog's lifetime.

Temperament, training and family life

The Aussiedoodle is exceptionally bright and absorbs new commands at speed, gives voice moderately, typically when something warrants it and suits families with children particularly well. The Irish Terrier trains reasonably well with regular positive sessions, gives voice moderately, typically when something warrants it and suits families with children particularly well. On guarding instinct, Aussiedoodle announces visitors but stops short of guarding, whereas Irish Terrier is naturally alert and defends its people.

Which is better for…

Which should you choose?

Choose the Aussiedoodle if you need a hypoallergenic, low-dander coat or you want an easier dog to train.

Choose the Irish Terrier if you want a longer-lived breed, you want a more protective, watchful guardian, or you prefer lower grooming upkeep.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Aussiedoodle or the Irish Terrier better for families with children?
Both the Aussiedoodle and the Irish Terrier are considered good with children when properly socialized and supervised.
Which sheds more, the Aussiedoodle or the Irish Terrier?
The Aussiedoodle and Irish Terrier shed a similar amount (low).
Which is easier to train, the Aussiedoodle or the Irish Terrier?
The Aussiedoodle is generally the easier of the two to train, making it a better pick for less experienced owners.
Is Aussiedoodle or Irish Terrier bigger?
Aussiedoodle and Irish Terrier are a similar size (Medium).
Which barks more, Aussiedoodle or Irish Terrier?
Both bark a similar amount (medium).
Which is better for apartment living, Aussiedoodle or Irish Terrier?
For apartment or apartment living, Aussiedoodle and Irish Terrier are an even match — either can work well.

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