Slainte! St. Patrick's Day is a raucous celebration of Irish heritage - its citizenry, patriotism, and culture - recognized by nations around the world, from Canada and New Zealand to the US and Ireland, itself. But with the holiday mostly focusing on good food, good company, and a healthy dose of liquid refreshment, Ireland's canine contribution is often overlooked.

This month, the Cesar Millan, Inc. newsletter is sitting up and taking notice of these forgotten fidos!

Here, then, is a list of some of our favorite four-legged friends from the Emerald Isle:

The Classic Red Irish Setter

Originally bred in Ireland as a hunting dog, the solid colored Red Irish Setter was the result of crossing the Red and White Setter with a solid-colored red dog of an unknown breed. They are widely heralded for their intelligence and stamina.

The Irish Terrier

There are many breeds of Irish Terrier, but the breed most commonly referred to by that name is also arguably the oldest. This boxy-looking red terrier is often lively, with medium-to-high energy, and may excel in agility courses.

The Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is a sighthound that derives its name from the purpose for which it was originally bred – hunting wolves. Wolfhounds are traditionally sweet-natured and very loyal, and their thick, rough coat most likely comes from years of breeding in harsh climates.

The Kerry Blue

The Kerry Blue was bred originally as a catcher of rats in Tipperary, rather than in County Kerry as its name would suggest. With its generous and hard-working nature, the Kerry Blue enjoyed some time as the National Dog of Ireland, representing for many a sense of patriotism and national spirit.

The Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Wheaten Terrier was bred to do it all! As a farm dog, it had duties herding, guarding, and controlling the pest population. Despite its history and popularity, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier wasn't recognized as an official breed by the IKC until 1937. They are enthusiastic greeters, and their bombastic approach to Hellos has given rise to the term "the Wheaten Welcome."

The Kerry Beagle

The Kerry Beagle is one of the oldest hound breeds known to have originated in Ireland. Its name derives from the Celtic word "beag," which means "small." These Beagles were nearly wiped out by starvation during the hunger epidemic in the mid 1800s. They are traditionally good with children and other dogs, and have a strong hunting instinct.