Did you know that there are nine dog breeds native to Ireland? Besides being some of the best hunting dogs for sportsmen, and being an integral part of Ireland’s history, any of these nine pups will make great pets for the whole family!
1. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is a large dog coming in a variety of different colours. Although originally used as a dog of war, pulling men off of horseback during battle, Irish wolfhounds are calm and quiet, and enjoy lazy days with the family!
2. Irish Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
These lovable dogs love getting any attention they can, and will let you know if they are not getting enough! Originally bred as farm dogs, they are extremely active and will require a lot of exercise and play time from their families!
3. Kerry Beagle
These dogs were used primarily for tracking stag, and today are used for tracking hares, foxes, and other smaller animals. Curious and active, thesedogs would do much better in a large house or with a big yard to get all of their energy out!
4. Irish Glen of Imaal Terrier
Although this terrier might be tiny, they are strong and stealthy. With this dog being more of a silent breed, they are much more calm than other breeds, and they won’t be looking for an extreme amount of attention either!
5. Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel lives up to its name by hunting in water and even having a naturally water-repellent coat! This dog is just waiting for game to retrieve, and wants to make you happy with the work they’ll do!
6. Irish Terrier
These courageous, fearless dogs are bold and eager to please. Irish Terriers are active, but won’t exhaust you and can be very relaxed. Bred to dig into the ground to rid farms of vermin, they are now known widely known as competition dogs in shows!
7. Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier are known for their fantastic coats that come in various shades of blue/grey. Fun-loving and playful, this terrier is extremely loyal and protective in regards to their family, and loves playing in a home environment!
8. Irish Red and White Setter
This setter is talented with their noses! With their heads high, they can pin point where game is before getting ready to point their handlers in the direction of the birds. Their eagerness to please is an attractive quality in the field or at home!
9. Irish Red Setter
Like the Red and White Setter, the Irish Red Setter sniffs out game in the same methodical way. Being extremely active, they require long walks and exercise, but make great pets for the family!
Having trouble deciding which of these native dogs will be your new furry friend? Shane McCoy and Colin White’s Native Irish Dogs can give you more information on each of these beautiful pups.
To purchase a copy, head over to our catalogue page here