PREFACE. 



The object of this publication is to help in the endeavor 

 to preserve and encourage the true type and characteristics 

 of the breed of Irish terriers, and to promote its growth 

 in public favor. 



Although in this country the interest in it has only just 

 begun, it is to-day one of the most popular and fashionable 

 breeds of terriers in England and Ireland, where it is more 

 widely known and appreciated. In fact, Irish terriers are now 

 one of the interesting features of England's greatest shows. 



In offering this little volume to the public, the main 

 object has been to bring together, in a concentrated form, 

 everything that has been said or published of the genuine 

 Irish terrier, worth recording, in order to trace and focus, if 

 possible, its origin and early history, as well as its develop- 

 ment up to the present standard, its characteristics, utility, 

 excellencies and deficiences, and thus to enable any one, and 

 especially beginners, to start with some of the knowledge 

 bJtherto possessed only by a few breeders and judges, who 



