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In addition to
the dogs mentioned in my last article, Ireland has produced
four breeds of terriers, which are considered to be quite
different from terriers in England and other parts of the
world.
Irish Terriers
During World War I, these red coated dogs were used as
messenger dogs, demonstrating intelligence and courage in
the horrors of trench warfare. The first breed club was set
up in Dublin in 1879 and the Irish Terrier was the first
member of the terrier group to be recognized by the English
Kennel Club as a native Irish breed.
Irish Glen of Imaal
The Irish Glen of Imaal is another old Irish breed,
originating in Irelands Glen of Imaal. This medium sized,
strong sturdy dog was officially recognized as a breed in
1934. Developed as a working dog, it was often used for
badger baiting and for hunting down foxes.
Kerry Blue
Like the other Irish Terrier breeds, the Kerry Blue has been
in Ireland for centuries. Originally bred as a rat catcher
and farm dog, it is notable for its dense blue grey coat.
Kerry Blues are considered by some to be an Irish mascot,
and they are very popular working and companion dogs.
Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is probably the oldest
of the four terrier breeds. Written records from 200 years
ago refer to "soft-coated" dogs. Despite the long history of
the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, it was not officially
recognized by the Irish Kennel Club until 1937. The
popularity of the breed has grown steadily and it is now
internationally known.
For more breed specific info about the dogs of Ireland, you
can visit the AKC website at
www.akc.org
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Looking for a new pet to share your life with? Make adoption
your first option!
Happy St Patrick's Day!
About the
Author
Pamela Fitzpatrick lives in Sayville with her family (which
of course includes pets). She has a Masters degree in
Animal Behavior, and is the Event Coordinator for
Have-a-Heart-Adopt-a Pet, a local organization which
promotes animal adoptions. Pam is also the owner of
Sayville Petsitters/YourDogWalkers, providing
petsitting and dog walking services to Sayville and
surrounding towns.
Suggestions and ideas for column topics
are welcome, email
shihtzu58@optonline.net
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