Irish Eyes are Smiling on Irish Wolfhounds!

In honor of St. Patrick's Day, I thought I'd pay tribute to all our Irish doggie descendants and give them some well deserved internet time! 

If you've ever been to an Irish Festival or event, you may have seen some of the most beautiful dogs around.  Dogs like the Irish Wolfhound! 

Here is a listing of the Native Irish Dogs as registered with the Irish Kennel Club:

• Glen of Imaal Terrier
• Kerry Blue Terrier
• Kerry Beagle
• Irish Red Setter
• Irish Terrier
• Irish Water Spaniel
• Irish Wolfhound
• Irish Red and White Setter
• Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

Did you know that the national dog of Ireland is the Irish Wolfhound.  They are said to be descended from the "Cu", whose history dates back to the pre-Christian era. Known to be ferocious in battle, they were used to pull men off horseback and at times to hunt wolves.

The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest dog in the world and stands about 32 inches at the shoulder.  They are nicknamed  "the Gentle Giants". They have a coarse wiry coat that can be a variety of colors such as white, wheaten, and red through to black, with or without brindling. An unusual feature of the breed is the bushy eyebrows and beard!

By six months of age, an Irish Wolfhound can weigh up to 90 lbs., and does not reach maturity until about two years old. Despite his great size he has a most gentle temperament.

If you'd like to know more about Irish Wolfhounds, check out http://www.iwcc.ca/

Happy St. Patricks Day!