This weekend, in association with The Gathering Ireland 2013, Farmleigh House, in Dublin’s Phoenix Park, will host the Irish Wolfhound Championship Show.

The Irish Kennel Club will have nine native Irish dog breeds on display while the Irish Wolfhound Club expects visitors from the United Kingdom, Spain, Holland, as well as local owners and their dogs.

The Irish Wolfhound is an official symbol of Ireland. The Irish Wolfhound, Irish Wolfdog or Cú was used by the ancient Irish for fighting and hunting . It was a sight hound for the ancient chiefs and kings of Ireland and considered to be a royal dog and not for general ownership. Many were exported to other countries as gifts or as tribute from the Irish people.

This free Gathering event will take place at Farmleigh House, in the Phoenix Park, which is Europe’s largest urban park. The mansion is surrounded by 78 acres of parkland and is located directly next door to the Aras an Uachtarain, home of the Irish president Michael D Higgins.

The event will also include access to Farmleigh House and its garden and gallery. There will also be a food market and live music. The Sunday (June 9) event runs from 11am to 5pm.

For more information visit TheGatheringIreland.com.