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To: The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine
Protect the Irish Wolfhound – Ireland’s Living Heritage
Protect Ireland’s Native heritage Breed – The Irish Wolfhound, Welfare Before Profit
Dear Minister,
I am asking the Irish Government to take action to protect the Irish Wolfhound, one of Ireland’s most iconic native breeds and a recognised part of our national heritage.
These magnificent dogs have long been ambassadors for Ireland around the world, representing the strength, loyalty and gentle character associated with our nation. As the breed becomes increasingly popular, we must ensure that its future is protected and that its welfare, dignity and unique qualities are never compromised by commercial interests.
The Irish Wolfhound should always be valued first as a companion animal and a treasured native breed — welfare must come before profit.
I respectfully ask the Government to establish an independent expert working group, including the Irish Wolfhound Club of Ireland, veterinary specialists, animal welfare organisations and canine health experts, to examine stronger protections for the breed.
This should include consideration of responsible breeding standards, mandatory health screening, DNA testing, temperament assessment and measures to prevent commercial exploitation where the needs of these gentle companion dogs are compromised.
The Irish Wolfhound is more than a breed of dog; it is a treasured part of Ireland’s history and identity. I believe Ireland has a responsibility to protect, respect and preserve this remarkable breed for future generations.
Thank you for considering this important matter.
Why is this important?
I care deeply about protecting the Irish Wolfhound because this magnificent breed is far more than a dog — it is a living part of Ireland’s history, culture and identity.
The Irish Wolfhound is Ireland’s largest and most iconic native breed and has long been an ambassador for Ireland around the world. These gentle giants are known for their loyalty, dignity and unique temperament, but they also have specialised needs that require responsible ownership, careful breeding and respect for their nature as companion animals.
As the popularity of the Irish Wolfhound grows, I believe we have a responsibility to ensure that this treasured breed is not valued for commercial gain at the expense of its wellbeing, character and future. Responsible preservation must always come before profit.
The Irish Wolfhound has been recognised as a National Heritage Breed. Now we must ensure that recognition is supported by meaningful protection.
I am asking people to join this campaign because protecting the Irish Wolfhound is not only about protecting a breed of dog — it is about safeguarding a unique part of Ireland’s heritage for future generations.
This campaign gives everyone who values our history, our native breeds and animal welfare the opportunity to help protect a national treasure.
By joining us, you can help ensure that the Irish Wolfhound’s future is shaped by responsible preservation, compassion and respect — not by commercial gain.
My own Irish Wolfhound, Arthur Guinness, is the inspiration behind this campaign. Living with Arthur has shown me the extraordinary nature of this breed — their gentle temperament, loyalty and the deep bond they form with their families.
My own Irish Wolfhound, Arthur Guinness, is the inspiration behind this campaign. Living with Arthur has shown me the extraordinary nature of this breed — their gentle temperament, loyalty and the deep bond they form with their families.
Irish Wolfhounds are giant companion dogs who thrive on close human connection. They are not simply animals to be housed away from family life; they need companionship, care and the security of being part of the home. Arthur represents why this magnificent Irish breed deserves to be protected and preserved for future generations.