IRISH WOLFHOUND SOCIETY OF IRELAND
American Kennel Club Celebrates Irish Dog Breeds in Spirit of St. Patrick's Day |
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"A dog owns nothing, yet is
seldom dissatisfied."
New York --It's no surprise that Ireland has produced many immortal writers, poets and musicians, but did you know there are several dog breeds that hail from the Emerald Isle? In honor of St. Patrick's Day on March 17th, the American Kennel Club® celebrates the breeds of Ireland. "The histories and legends surrounding these breeds of the Emerald Isle are as rich and vibrant as the Irish culture," said AKC spokesperson Lisa Peterson. "Owners of these unique breeds can attest to the joy that their devotion and fun-loving personalities bring to their lives."
Irish Wolfhound—While Irish literature refers to this ancient breed in many ways, including "Big Dogs of Ireland," Irish Wolfhounds were documented in Rome in the year 391 A.D., where they were presented to the Roman Counsel as gifts, which "all Rome viewed with wonder." No wonder-- they are the largest and tallest of the galloping hounds. Males should be a minimum of 32" tall and weigh 120 pounds; females should be a minimum of 30" tall and weigh 105 pounds. This is a swift breed which hunts by sight, and needs an ample, fenced in yard to accommodate its full gallop. As in early times, Irish Wolfhounds possess an extraordinary social temperament, as well as the intelligence to separate friend, family and foe.
Irish Setter—Green may be the color of the Irish, but deep mahogany is the color of this four-legged beauty. The Irish Setter was recognized by the AKC in 1878 and is part of the Sporting Group. Irish Setters have rollicking personalities and require a good amount of exercise to satisfy their breed instincts; they are tough and tireless field retrievers. They are also loving companion dogs who enjoy the company of children. It takes about three years for this breed to fully mature into adulthood, so if you're considering bringing an Irish Setter into your home, you should be prepared for an active, fun-loving dog.
Irish Water Spaniel—This breed has been referred to as the "Shannon Spaniel," the "Whip-Tail Spaniel," and the "Rat-Tail Spaniel." Distinguishing characteristics are a topknot of long, loose curls and a body covered with a dense, crisply curled liver colored coat, contrasted by a smooth face and a smooth "rat" tail. First recognized in 1878 by the AKC, this ancient breed is a natural water dog. Irish Water Spaniels are devoted to their family and cautious around strangers. They are impressive dogs and possess an endurance quality which makes them equally agile in the water and in the field.
Kerry Blue Terrier—The "Kerry Blue" hails from the Irish county of the same name; he had been pure-bred in that section of Ireland for more than a hundred years. Known for his superior working and hunting skills, the Kerry Blue is used for hunting small game and birds, and for retrieving from land as well as water. Size doesn't matter, for he is an unsurpassed watch dog and herder of flock. In some instances in England, he has even been used for police work. The breed was first recognized by the AKC in 1922, and came into the national spotlight when CH. Torums Scarf Michael won best in show at the 2002 AKC/Eukanuba National Championship.
Glen of Imaal Terrier—Glen of Imaal, which is a valley in the Wicklow mountains, is the region in Ireland after which this hardy breed is named. Longer than tall and sporting a double coat of medium length, the "Glen" possesses great strength and conveys the impression of a dog of good substance. This is a working terrier, who must have the agility, freedom of movement and endurance to do the work for which it was developed. Like its Irish counterparts, the Glen is also courageous, and always ready to give chase. When working it is active, agile, silent and intent upon its game. Otherwise, the Glen can be docile and a companion for families with older children. Recognized by the AKC in 2004, the Glen of Imaal is one of the newest AKC breeds.
For more information regarding these or any of the AKC's 157 breeds, visit www.akc.org/breeds. View our Irish Breeds page at www.akc.org/breeds/irish_breeds.cfm.
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