Nine native breeds originate from Ireland. From the Kerry Blue to the Irish Setter, Native Irish Dog breeds are considered hardy, excellent working dogs and make wonderful companions. These remarkable breeds, Irish Glen of Immal Terrier, Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, the Kerry Beagle, the Kerry Blue Terrier, the Irish Terrier, the Irish Water Spaniel, the Red and White Irish Setter, the Irish Setter and the Irish Wolfhound have all found their way into Irish folklore and the hearts of the Irish people.
The Irish Wolfhound, who symbolises all things Irish, was said to have arrived on these shores in 7000BC, while the legendary Michael Collins owned a Kerry Blue named “Convict 224”. The majestic Irish Setter, is another instantly recognisable “Irish breed”, which has become famous all over the globe.
To celebrate Ireland’s heritage and rich tradition in breeding these wonderful breeds; a special 2013 Irish Native Breeds Show will be held in the Irish Kennel Club on September 14th and 15th. In conjunction with “The Gathering”, this championship show, has thrown open its doors to Irish and International competitors, with an ambition to bring the very best of Irish Native Breeds to the Irish Kennel Club’s Showground for this momentous event. A range of Irish and International breed specialists will join forces to judge this event which will not only encompass breed confirmation classes for these magnificent breeds, but also working tests and field trials – showing these beautiful dogs working in their native environment.
A must for anyone with an interest in dogs, and particularly native breeds, this showcase will bring together everything that is best about the Irish dog, and illustrate why these native Irish Breeds are of huge international significance.
If your club would like to be involved in celebrating this momentous occasion then please consider sponsoring special rosettes, sashes or a trophy for your breed.
For more information on the event and a schedule, please visit http://www.dogsofireland.org./
Thank you
Sinead Taggart (sineadtaggart@hotmail.com)
Cathy Delmar (cathydelmar@hotmail.com
Enthusiasts & Fanciers of Glens 