Do you have your green picked out for St. Patrick's Day? There’s no reason to leave your four legged pals out of the fun -- St. Paddy's is for everyone! Now, I'm not suggesting that you dye your dog green, and yes, that really happens.
An easier, and far less messy choice is to sport a good looking, good-luck bringing St. Paddy's day personalized pet tag. Here are just a few you can choose from.
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You've probably heard the phrase, "the luck of the Irish," and while I would argue that the luckiest dogs are those adopted from rescues and shelters, I thought it would be fun to check out some popular Irish dog breeds this St. Paddy's Day. Bonus points (and twice the luck!) if your Celtic canine is from a rescue. Where possible, I've included some resources for adopting the breeds listed below.
Irish Wolfhound
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This breed is a true Irish original! Some scholars think this is the oldest of the Irish dog breeds, dating back to over 5,000 years. Irish Wolfhounds were originally used for hunting and guarding due to their large size. According to the American Kennel Club, they average around 30 plus inches tall--making them the tallest of all dog breeds, taller even then Great Danes--and they can reach upwards of 120 pounds. Today, Irish Wolfhounds are known for their sweet, gentle manner and shaggy good looks. For information on how to adopt Irish Wolfhounds, check out Irish Wolfhound Club of America. |
Irish Terrier
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With a striking reddish coat and bearded face, Irish Terriers are a distinguished lot. As a breed, these dogs are known to be exceptionally smart, and excel in dog agility. They are also good with people, of loyal character, and usually good with children. When groomed properly, these handsome dogs won't shed and their wiry coat provides protection from cold and rain. Check out the Irish Terrier Rescue Network for more. |
Irish Setter
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Unlike the Irish Terrier, Irish Setter's have a long, silky coat that requires frequent brushing. Irish Setter's were bred for hunting and were brought to the United States in the early 19th century. This active breed enjoys vigorous walks and human companionship and make excellent therapy dogs. The Irish Setter Club of America helps find homes for displaced Irish Setters across the country. |
Irish Water Spaniel
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Check out that hair! Irish Water Spaniels are native to Ireland and have dense, tight curls. Like poodles, Irish Water Spaniels don't shed, so they're friendly to people who are allergic to dogs. Like their name suggests, they are powerful swimmers who love water, and they even have webbed feet! |
Kerry Beagle
| Curiously, Kerry Beagles aren't actually beagles--they're hounds, and thought to be one of the oldest Irish Hounds, dating back to the 16th century. Kerry Beagles were brought over to America by Irish immigrants and are considered a foundation breed in the development of the Coonhound. Built for speed and endurance, the Kerry Beagle was bred to hunt stags, fox and hare. They require a lot of exercise and are good with children and other dogs. |
On this St. Patrick's Day, Kathleen McCafferty raises a toast to all dogs regardless of their breed, and to the humans that love them. She thinks that the real pot of gold is coming home to a wagging tail at the end of a very long day. Doesn't hurt to have them in a cute custom dog ID tags either!
