Irish Breeds

There are nine dog breeds with their origins in Ireland.

1.        Irish Glen of Imall Terrier

2.        Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

3.        Kerry Beagle

4.        Kerry Blue Terrier

5.        Irish Terrier

6.        Irish Water Spaniel

7.        Irish Wolfhound

8.        Irish Setter

9.        Irish Red and White Setter

These dogs were bred as hardy, working dogs, but also made the best of companions. In the early part of the 20^th century, these native Irish breeds became living symbols of Ireland’s Celtic past and were often associated with Irish Nationalism. Irish revolutionary leader Michael Collins had a famous Kerry Blue Terrier named ‘Convict 224’, and many other nationalists also had the same breed of dog.