IRISH DOGS

IRISH WOLFHOUND

The world’s tallest breed of dog. Originally, it was used to hunt and kill wolves. When Ireland’s wolves became extinct, the function of these dogs also disappeared. The breed was re-created in the late nineteenth century, but was no longer used for hunting and is now known as a gentle giant.

KERRY BLUE TERRIER

This breed was reputed to be descended from an exotic blue dog that swam ashore from a ship that foundered in Tralee Bay. Originally, the dog was used as a farm dog to herd livestock and kill vermin. The Kerry Blue became a favourite among young Irish nationalists in the early decades of the last century, but is now considered to be vulnerable to extinction.

IRISH RED AND WHITE SETTER

This breed is believed to be the original Irish Setter. It was once regarded as a better gun dog than its close relative, the all-Red Setter. However, by the end of the nineteenth century, it had been eclipsed in popularity by the red dog. Since then, it has only managed to survive through being out-crossed periodically with the all-red breed.

GLEN OF IMAAL TERRIER

This is Ireland’s only dwarf breed, but is often said to be “a big dog on short legs”. This terrier was first bred in the isolated Glen of Imaal in Co Wicklow. The Glen Terrier was used to catch small game, and to draw badgers from their setts. Nowadays, it is more likely to be kept as a family pet.

IRISH TERRIER

This breed was developed in the North of Ireland, and was designed to be “red, racy and rectangular”. Before World War I, it became one of Europe’s most fashionable dogs, but during the war the breed also established a reputation for its courage and high spirits.

IRISH WATER SPANIEL

This breed has hardy changed in appearance since it was first established in Dublin in the 1830s. For many years, the Irish Spaniel was regarded as an exceptional gun dog. However, its popularity declined as a rival breed emerged to become the world’s most popular dog. Although this is believed to be the oldest breed of Ireland’s terriers, it was the last to be recognised by the Irish Kennel Club. Unlike many terriers, it has a single coat which is soft and appears to flow when the dog moves. This is the only native terrier not considered to be vulnerable to extinction.

KERRY BEAGLE

This is Ireland’s only scent hound. It was the principal dog used for fox hunting by the Irish gentry, with some families keeping packs of up to 200 hounds. Nowadays, there is only one united pack of Kerry Beagles in the country.

IRISH RED SETTER

This was originally bred as a working gun dog, but has enjoyed so much success in the show ring that some believe it has lost some of its original skills and identity. It remains one of the most popular of Irish dogs, and is one of the three native breeds that are not threatened with extinction.