dog developed in Ireland, one of the oldest breeds of terriers. Nicknamed the “daredevil,” it has earned the reputation of being adaptable, loyal, spirited, and recklessly courageous. It served as a messenger and sentinel dog in World War I, and it has been used to hunt and to retrieve game. The Irish terrier is a sturdily built dog with racier lines than those of other terriers. Its long, relatively narrow head is usually accented by a short beard. It stands about 18 inches (46 cm), weighs 25 to 27 pounds (11 to 12 kg), and is distinguished by its wiry golden-red to reddish brown coat.