Friday, 21 November 2025

Dogs and Ireland

 



In ancient Ireland, dogs were so deeply revered that when warriors and kings gained the devotion of a hound, they were honored with the prefix "Cu" in their names. This special designation indicated that they had proven themselves deserving of a dog's steadfast loyalty and respect.
The most famous example is the legendary hero Cúchulainn, who earned his name after slaying a fierce guard dog and vowing to take its place. The prefix "Cu," meaning "hound" in Old Irish, was considered one of the highest honors in Celtic society, reflecting the culture's deep bond with these animals. Irish wolfhounds, in particular, were prized companions in battle and royal courts alike, and their loyalty was celebrated in countless tales and poems from medieval Irish literature.




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