Pet Sitters Ireland Nose of Tralee 2026 (Finalists)

A big Congratulations to those who have made it through to the final 32 of the 2026 Nose of Tralee.

Listed below is a representative for each of the counties in Ireland – who will now go on to compete for the title of Nose of Tralee 2026.

What To Do If You Have Made The Final 32 Noses

1. Keep an eye out for an email from us about taking your photo and re submiting your entry.
2. We will be posting out your finalists sash and some goodies for your pet over the next few days and we will also be inviting you to join our Noses Facebook Group where you can meet all the previous years Noses.
3. Once you receive the sash you need to take another photo and re enter your pet in the finals. We will provide the link via email to do this. There will also be lots more information in the Facebook Group about this process.

When Will The Winner Of the Nose Of Tralee 2026 Announced?

• Voting starts again on the 24th July.
• The winner will be announced on the 18th August after a public vote.

Pet Sitters Ireland Nose of Tralee 2026 (Finalists)

Antrim

Bonnie

Meet Bonnie, the 2 year old golden cocker spaniel from Belfast. AKA, professional treat connoisseur. AKA, mud obsessed diva, AKA, mums stalker. I believe Bonnie deserves to be the nose of Tralee because shes our national treasure with paws. She is everyones emotional support animal with no formal training. Loves to perform zoomies after the toilet and never pays rent, yet remains the most important member of the household.

 

Armagh

Luna

     

Shes the most well loved dog in armagh city. Her pink ears are known far and wide. She loves pets and peoole making a fuss over her.

 

Carlow

Max

This is Max, my three year old Pomsky. He has the kind of personality and appearance that instantly captures everyones attention wherever he goes. With his beautiful fox like face, fluffy coat and heterochromia eyes he has a look that perfectly reflects his unique character. Being a mix of a Husky and Pomeranian, Max has inherited the best qualities of both breeds the intelligence, energy and adventurous spirit of a Husky combined with the affectionate, playful, and charming nature of the Pomeranian. He is full of life, always eager to meet new people and somehow manages to make everyone smile with his cheeky personality, hes often super expressive too with lots of talking and funny reactions. Despite his small size compared to a full Husky, he carries himself with confidence and pride, almost like he knows hes special. He also has his own tiktok and instagram accounts @max_thepomsky_ which showcases his daily life from dog shows, playful moments, promoting products, adventures and much more, its also a way for us to connect with a wider community of people that show the same love and appreciation for animals and we love sharing our journey with our followers. Max is also a perfect example of the growing importance of dog-friendly communities and businesses. Across Ireland, more cafes, shops, parks, and local businesses are recognising how valuable it is to welcome dogs and their owners. Whether its visiting a local cafe/restaurant, a family-run bakery or any pet friendly business, we love supporting as many as we can to help encourage people to spend more time locally, socialize and enjoy more time with their pets included. I believe Max would be the perfect representative for Carlow in the Nose of Tralee because he has everything you could want in a canine ambassador – beauty, friendliness and he proves that even a small dog can carry a big county spirit

 

Cavan

Waffle

Waffle came in to our lives in Feb 2026 and how she had changed our lives forever. Apart from being the cutest little pup, she brings fun, mischievousness and so much love to our home. Her little reactions, snuggles and affection has captured not only me and my husband but our extended family. We look forward to seeing her after work as she pops her head up to look out the window when I come up the drive and she then speeds out to greet me at the door. In the short time weve had her, shes the center of our worlds and wed be lost without her. Waffle deserves to be Nose of Tralee, shes cute, funny and a caring little soul that everyone should know about. Crazy that I talk about her like shes a person but she has really had a huge positive impact on our lives.

Clare   

Baaaarney   

Introducing the one, the only, Baaaarney McKenna  born in Galway but now proudly a Clare goat, and owner of the finest baaanjo this side of the Burren. Baaaarney has spent years perfecting the important skills in life: escaping fences, eating things he absolutely shouldnt, and screaming for absolutely no reason at 5 in the morning. Last year his famous baaanjo proudly represented Clare, reducing several audience members to tears and confusing at least three judges. This year, Baaaarney himself is taking centre stage in the Nose of Tralee in search of glory, fame, and possibly somebodys unattended sandwich. A passionate advocate for free-range living, Baaaarney believes every goat deserves: Equal climbing opportunities  Fresh hay on demand And at least one traffic cone to stand on at all times Known locally as The Horned HeartbreakerBaaaarney has stolen hearts all across Munster mainly because he keeps breaking into gardens and eating the flowers. If selected as Clare Nose of Tralee, Baaaarney vows to represent his County with honour, pride, and absolutely zero respect for personal space. Vote Baaaarney McKenna: Because every great nation deserves a slightly unhinged goat leading it.

Cork

Charlie

Meet Charlie, a 14-year-old Golden Retriever with a heart as golden as his coat. Despite being in his senior years, Charlie still loves his adventures and can often be found exploring the shoreline, nose to the wind and taking in the world around him. He is gentle, loyal, and has spent 14 years bringing happiness to everyone lucky enough to know him. Charlie would make a wonderful Nose of Tralee because he embodies everything we love about dogs: kindness, companionship, resilience, and a sense of fun. This photo captures him perfectly calm, dignified, and enjoying one of his favourite places. Age has given him wisdom, but he’s never lost his curiosity or his love of life. With a nose that’s spent 14 years investigating every interesting scent and a personality that wins hearts wherever he goes, Charlie is a worthy contender for the title of Nose of Tralee.

Derry

Einstein

From the very beginning, Einstein was never your typical border collie. He was never meant for the farm life, and he quickly found his true calling as the cherished, pampered pooch in our home. Our family used to be a whirlwind of fascinating conversations, but now, they revolve around Wheres the dog?, Look at the dog!, and the ever-important Did he poo today? How did it look? Honestly, we wouldnt trade these moments for anything. Einstein has been our rock through the toughest times. In June 2025, we lost the husband and father of our household. During my daddys illness, Einstein was a constant companion nuzzling, cuddling, and even alerting us to trouble spots by sniffing areas that doctors later confirmed were affected. Thrown into the deep end as an overnight emotional support animal, Einstein has risen to the challenge with unwavering devotion. Its impossible to wallow in grief when someones dropping tennis balls in your lap and patiently waiting for you to go for a walk. Ive never met anyone, man or beast, with the depth of empathy and love this little dog carries. Hes transformed our lives in ways words cant capture. He absolutely deserves all the treats in the world and a title to match!

Donegal

Oonagh

Oonagh is a black and tan Jack Russell we adopted from a litter in Bruckless, Donegal during the Covid pandemic. She is so relentless at football, we call her “Ronaldog”. On walks she will often pick up and carry a stick more than one meter long and the same weight as her body. She has sniffed just about every beach in Donegal County and beyond. Her favorite pub is John Joe’s in Kilcar village and she is much loved at John McGuiness’ hardware store in Bruckless. She is an active participant in the Roxboro Beach Brigade beach cleanups, collecting all GAA footballs and rugby balls that ended up on the shore of Port Eachrann. At the end of the day she likes to curl up on something soft, preferably a Donegal tweed jumper left lying around.

Down

Ira

Meet Ira, a five-year-old Cavachon with a heart as big as her personality. Wherever Ira goes, she leaves behind wagging tails, smiling faces, and new friends. She isnt just a beautiful dog with a charming face  she is a gentle, caring companion who brings comfort and happiness to everyone she meets. Ira volunteers as a pet therapy dog with Pets As Therapy, visiting children’s hospital wards, rehabilitation homes for older adults, and supported living services for teenagers with learning disabilities. During one visit, a young boy who would not usually engage positively reacted to Ira by reaching out to pet her. The support workers were amazed and delighted by his response, showing just how powerful the bond between people and animals can be. Ira is also an experienced traveller, having spent six months living in Vancouver, Canada, where she charmed everyone she met. She loves learning tricks, meeting new people, and spreading happiness wherever she goes. For her caring nature, community work, adventurous spirit, and wonderful temperament, Ira would be a worthy Nose of Tralee.

Dublin

Reggie

This is Reggie. The smallest boy with the biggest presence. Reggie is the crack that lets light in, he brings so many people joy on his many adventures, and loves pausing the fun to let people give him a little rub behind his ears.

Fermanagh

Bowie

Bowie – Nose of Tralee Candidate At seven years old, Bowie is the heart of the Waters household in beautiful Fermanagh, where she lords over the rolling countryside and the shores of Lough Erne like she owns the whole lake. With her soulful eyes, that constant happy tongue, and a temperament that can only be described as pure love, Bowie has been the cornerstone of our family for years. She’s a devoted older sister to her younger siblings Ellie and Evie, guiding them with patience and grace. And this August, she’s about to step into her biggest role yet: big sister to our first son. We have no doubt she’ll take that responsibility as seriously as she takes every day of her joyful life. Bowie isn’t just our dog she’s our constant companion, our comfort, our reason to smile every single morning. She’s shown us what unconditional love truly means, and there’s simply no family on earth that loves as fiercely as this golden-hearted girl loves us. This is Bowie’s year.

Galway

Honey

My Goldendoodle deserves to win the Nose of Tralee because she has mastered the rare art of making every person she meets feel like the most important human in Ireland. She greets each day with boundless enthusiasm, whether its a walk in the rain, a game of fetch, or simply supervising the making of a cup of tea. Her tail never stops wagging, her heart is as big as Dublin Bay, and her fluffy face has the remarkable ability to make bad days disappear. As a Goldendoodle, she is blessed with movie-star looks, but its her personality that truly stands out. She is part comedian, part therapist, part professional sock thief, an excellent hole digger and full-time best friend. She spreads joy wherever she goes, makes strangers smile, and believes every visitor arrives solely to admire her – which, to be fair, is usually true.

Kerry

Teddy

Teddy is a 4-year-old Shih Tzu who would make an excellent Nose of Tralee. Hes a true little gentleman  well-mannered, friendly, and adored by everyone he meets. He gets on wonderfully with people and dogs of all ages and is always ready to brighten someones day with one of his kisses. Teddy loves his daily walks, as long as there are plenty of sniff stops along the way to investigate all the local happenings! When hes not out and about, youll usually find him enjoying a cosy nap or making sure his tummy stays nice and full. With his charming personality, impeccable manners, and exceptional nose for sniffing out adventure, Teddy has all the qualities needed to be crowned the next Nose of Tralee.

 

 

Kildare

Albus

Meet Albus  Albus is an 8-month-old St. Bernard cross with Bernese Mountain Dog, and despite still being a puppy, he often acts like a wise old soul. He’s incredibly clever, kind-hearted, and surprisingly self-aware. Even though he’s already much bigger than most dogs (already at 42kg), he seems to know his own size and always adjusts his play style to be gentle with smaller dogs and children. Food is his greatest love in life (with ice cubes coming a very close second). In fact, he’s already taught himself how to use the fridge’s ice dispenser. He’s also a magician, his food can disappear in seconds! One of his favourite tricks is giving a high five with his giant paw when asked. His two front paws have large white markings that look just like socks, so naturally we call them his “Nikes.” The sweetest thing about Albus is how he greets other dogs. When he sees one approaching, he’ll often lie down to show that he’s friendly and not a threat , just a gentle giant looking for a new friend. He’s big, fluffy, clever, food obsessed, and endlessly lovable. We couldn’t imagine life without him.

Kilkenny

Paidi

Paidi ebodies the true spirit of Ireland – He loves a good public gathering, refuses to go out side when it rains and has a passionate obsession with Tayto – especially ones that have been dropped on the pub floor. He has many talents which include Interior design ( the deconstruction of expensive cushions) , impeccable gastronomy (preferring a random pavement lick to his kibble) and advanced linguistics (randomly barking at inanimate objects throughout the day) He would not only make a perfect Nose but he would make a perfect escort hes impossibly cheerful, and convinced that every person he meets is his new best friend.

Laois

Murph

Murph, the Grunt, as we call her, brings a smile to the faces of everyone she meets. From her sassy talk back to her absolute love of her piggy toys, Murph is a ball of happiness. She is the baby in our household and she sure knows it. There isn’t a day that goes by she doesn’t have us bursting out in laughter from her antics. Her smile alone will bring a smile to your face.

Leitrim

Cappy

Ladies and gentlemen, judges and fellow nose enthusiasts, I present to you the one and only Cappy the Collie Doodle owner of what may well be the most remarkable nose in the known world. Cappy arrived during the Covid lockdown, one of just three puppies born to our grandparents dogs. Our grandad decided to keep her as his companion while everyone else was busy with work and school. He decided to call her Cappy because he came to Leitrim from Cappataggle County Galway. It was a perfect match. She quickly became his shadow, best friend, and unofficial supervisor of all household activities. Sadly, when Cappy was three years old, our beloved grandad passed away. Like the rest of the family, she was heartbroken. But ever since, she has continued the important job he entrusted to her keeping a watchful eye and more importantly, a watchful nose on all of us. Now, let discuss the star of the show: The Nose. Cappys nose is not merely a nose. It is a highly sophisticated detection system. It can identify the rustle of a sausage packet from three rooms away. It can locate chicken hidden in lunchboxes, butter left unattended on countertops, and dropped crumbs that even forensic scientists would struggle to find. Her nose is also incredibly nosy. If there is a conversation happening, she needs to know about it. If someone arrives at the door, she conducts a thorough investigation. If a cupboard opens, she appears instantly, as if teleported by the scent itself. But Cappys nose is not all about food. It has a special gift for reading people. Somehow, she instinctively knows who is kind and who might need a little extra scrutiny. Visitors are carefully sniffed, assessed, and either welcomed with enthusiastic tail wags or placed under temporary observation. Speaking of tail wags, we suspect there is a direct connection between Cappys nose and her tail. Whenever the nose discovers a friend, a treat, or any exciting piece of gossip, the tail begins wagging at such speed that local weather patterns may be affected. As a guard dog, she keeps our family safe. As a friend, she keeps us smiling. As a food detective, she keeps us on our toes. And as the proud owner of a beautiful, elegant, long and lovely nose, she represents everything this competition stands for. So when you cast your vote, remember some dogs have good noses, some dogs have lovely noses, but only Cappy has a nose that combines beauty, bravery, kindness, curiosity, food-finding expertise, and advanced neighbourhood intelligence gathering. Vote for Cappy, your Leitrim competitior for the Nose of Tralee title 2026!

Limerick

Coco

Coco is a beautiful 14 year old jack Russell who I have had the pleasure of watching her grow since she was 6 weeks old she has her own little personality jealoussy definitely been one when her daddy gives mammy cuddles or visa versa, she loves cuddles under the duvet when daddy gets out of bed or on the couch watching movies, she comes over and nudges your hand for attention or for a treat she sleeps in our bed so walks to the edge if needs to go out, she knows tricks such as kiss, paw, high5, bump (fistbump) and sit all for treats or she won’t do them. She has been on trains, bus and car journeys with me. She has had a few little surgery’s such as pyrometra and has had cancer a few times and had lumps removed. But still is a feisty playful puppy at heart when she fights and growls at pillow fights. And the newest one is domino hook hoo where u catch her leg n she growls. Coco definitely is a one of a kind young pup in a middle aged body

Longford

Alfie

Alfie is a miniature schnauzer full of love, mischief and zoomies! He loves his walks, cuddles, treats and rolling around in piles of leaves. Leaf, Laugh, Love!

 

Louth

Teddy

Teddy would make a great Nose of Tralee because he’s got the perfect mix of charm, personality, and heart. He greets everyone like a long-lost friend, always brings smiles wherever he goes, and carries himself with confidence (even if he occasionally gets up to mischief!). Whether he’s strutting his stuff on a walk, showing off his waggy tail, or giving the best cuddles, Teddy is a wonderful ambassador for all dogs. Most importantly, he spreads happiness, and that’s what being the Nose of Tralee is all about!

Mayo

Mollie

Molly is a rescue who burst into my life six months ago. Shes passionate about chasing bubbles, windswept leaves, and dandelion clocks. Lately shes devised a technique worthy of a university distinction: she selects a sturdy stick in the woods, then charges at full speed to slay those dastardly dandelions. Shes so proud of herself afterwards. When shes zen, she climbs up behind you on the sofa, wraps her two front paws around your shoulders, and rests her whole head on yours. And as for being a watchdog she once barked and growled at my reflection in a window while I sat behind her. Molly is only seventeen months old, full of energy, and delighted with life. Shes my distraction from everyday woes, especially watching her antics on our walks. Im so glad she chose me.

Meath

Willow

Willow was a scaredy rescue kitty but has become such a brave, clever, confident and beautiful maine coon. She enjoys being brought for walks on the lead and absolutely loves wearing little cat tshirts. She catwalks around the house so proud of herself.

Monaghan

Lucy Lou

Lucy is the silliest dog, full of goofiness, joy and energy. She is a mix between a Vizla and Golden retriever. She is the absolute joy of our family and brings a smile to anyone who meets her. Lucy has changed my life in particular. As a child and the whole way through my teenage years, I had a huge fear of dogs. I always loved them but I couldnt get past my fear when I was around them. I spent most of my life avoiding situations where I would be around dogs such as forest and beach walks. However all that changed in 2023. After coming home from a summer in America, my family brought Lucy into our home. She was a little energetic puppy and it wasnt easy at first for me to get used to. Going from not being able to walk by a dog on the street to living with Lucy was a huge change. However Lucy was so gentle, kind, friendly and has now not only became my best friend but my whole familys best friend too. From our daily walks, our outdoor adventures, hikes, trips to get pup cups and Lucy favourite, jumping on our family trampoline in the garden, Lucy had became the heart of our family and because of this we believe Lucy would make a great Nose of Tralee.

 

Offaly

Maisie

Maisie would be the best Nose of Tralee because she brings fun, friendship, and a little bit of mischief wherever she goes. Whether she’s chasing her favourite orange ball, making new friends on her walks, or investigating every interesting scent she comes across, Maisie lives life with enthusiasm and a wagging tail. Her nose is always hard at work, leading her on adventures and helping her discover the world one sniff at a time. With her cheerful spirit, expressive face, and endless love for people, Maisie is a wonderful ambassador for everything the Nose of Tralee celebrates. Most of all, Maisie reminds us to enjoy the simple things in life: fresh air, good company, and the excitement of a new adventure.

Roscommon

Dotti

Introducing Dotti, a Great Dane with a giant heart, an even bigger personality, and a nose worthy of the Nose of Tralee crown. Dotti’s impressive snoot is constantly hard at work, whether she’s locating hidden treats, conducting thorough garden/field inspections, or determining exactly who’s opening the treat bag from the other side of the house. Her dedication to the art of sniffing is second to none. When she’s not busy with important nose-related duties, Dotti can be found tearing around the house, garden and field in spectacular Great Dane zoomie mode, leaning her full body weight against her favourite humans as a sign of affection, and casually launching her long legs in every direction imaginable. Like any true diva, she isn’t afraid to throw the occasional tantrum when things don’t go her way usually to the amusement of everyone around her. Gentle, loving, hilarious, and impossible to ignore, Dotti brings joy wherever she goes. With her outstanding nose, larger-than-life character, and undeniable charm, she believes she has all the qualities required to become the next Nose of Tralee. Vote Dotti because greatness starts with a Great Dane nose!

Sligo

Boo

He is beautiful, huge personality and of course he likes when he gets compliments.

Tipperary

Cassie

Sassy Cassie is the greatest addition to our family! She is the most adorable sock thief – she has had to have her stomach pumped twice for swallowing socks whole! She has a sweet loving nature and loves nothing more than cuddles and walks! Dont let her cuteness fool you she hates the word No and will be very vocal about letting you know she doesnt like it! She is very social and loves to say hello to everyone!

Tyrone

Enid

Main character energy always… Presenting the love of my life; Enid, “Zero Fudges Enid” to her friends ­. A 4 year old chihuahua, Enid is both Diva and Angel all wrapped up in a cuddly 2kg package. Miranda Priestly step aside because this little supawmodel is the queen of the runway! This girl has sass in abundance and loves to show off her fabulous outfits (of which she has many) especially if there’s a camera nearby. She is equally happy playing at the dog park, running through the forest or at home with mama and snuggies on the sofa are her favourite. I joke that Enid lives on my shoulder but it’s not really a joke. She just loves to be snuggled into me as much as possible and there is a literal warmth and joy that emanates from her. It’s genuinely impossible to be sad around Enid. She either snuggles into my neck for comfort or she does her winding wiggle butt dance, always with a toy in her mouth, and makes me laugh uncontrollably. She loves to present her toys to you but only the truly privileged get to see her fav, Mr Piggy Wiggy· Enid has an indomitable spirit, something that was never so clear as when she almost died last year, and spent nearly 6 months with a surgical feeding tube through her side. She amazed her vets and specialists who all said it was astonishing she survived. She looked into the eye of the Storm and said “baby, I AM the storm”. I love that Enid is such a fabulous ambassador for her breed, dispelling the stereotype of a snappy, yappy little dog. She loves everyone, human or canine (and other animals too). To me she is beyond perfect, she is my little heart dog. And I think she would be amazing as the Nose of Tralee. She epitomises everything I imagine the Nose of Tralee stands for; friendship, loyalty, fun, inclusiveness and love. To coin a well known phrase… If Carlsberg made dogs they’d be Enid..

 

Waterford

Izzy Bear

  Meet Izzy Bear: From an Abandoned Field to Waterfords “Part-Seal” Superstar! Izzy Bear is a one of a kind Mammut Bulldog ( fluffy Bulldog,whose journey is the definition of a “second chance.” Found abandoned and alone in a field, she has transformed from a forgotten rescue into a fluffy, hug-loving flirty icon of the DÃise. Shes now ready to show the country that every dog has its day as she enters the Nose of Tralee. Izzy is a dog who lives life to the fullest. Whether shes channelling her inner seal during a sea swim at Benvoy Beach, snacking on her beloved mandarin oranges, or intensely watching Ghostbusters, she brings joy to everyone she meets. A dedicated fan of Gaelic Football and Rugby, shes also a total flirt who knows exactly how to charm the me,usually to secure an extra hug or a free pup cup in Tramore Why Izzy Bear Deserves the Nose of Tralee Title: The Ultimate Rescue Story: Izzy deserves this title because she represents the resilience of every dog found in a field. Her transition from abandoned rescue to a cherished family member is a testament to the power of love and adoption. A Unique Irish Spirit: With her distinctive “fluffster” looks and her love for the Waterford coast, she is a true original. Shes not just a pet; shes a character who embodies the quirky, friendly spirit of Ireland. The “Part-Seal” Adventurer: Her bravery in the waves at Benvoy Beach and her zest for life,despite her rough start,make her a true champion in the eyes of everyone who meets her. Ambassador for the Underdog: Winning would be a victory for every rescue dog out there, proving that where you start (in a lonely field) doesn’t define how bright you can shine. Izzy Bear is a mandarin-loving, football-cheering, Tramore pup-cup connoisseur who has conquered the odds. Vote for the “Fluffster” who found her way from a field and straight into our hearts! Â

Westmeath

Pepi

Meet Pepi a small dog with a huge personality, a charming scruffy smile, and ears that seem permanently tuned in to compliments. With a nose that never misses a biscuit, a muddy puddle, or the sound of a treat bag opening from three rooms away, Pepi is the perfect candidate for the Nose of Tralee.

 

 

Wexford

Maggie

Shed make a great Nose of Tralee because she follows her nose everywhere especially when chasing field mice and sniffing out treats. Curious, full of character, and always on an adventure, shes a natural winner!

Wicklow

Aflie

A big hi from Alfie – part Staffie, part land seal, full softie! Originally from Limerick, Alfie found his way to Wicklow via the wonderful people in Clare Animal Welfare. Luckily for us, we passed the 3-3-3 rules for him to decide we were the right hoomans for him and hes been a natural fit since February. At 2 years old, Alfie is head of garden security making sure were safe from all winged creatures. He has an amazing future with The Department of Doggie Revenue to ensure full compliance of the cheese tax. Alfie is an absolute powerhouse of energy who will welcome you through the door after putting the bins out like you have just returned from an Arctic exploration. He thoroughly believes he can be whatever he wants to be – a 20kg lapdog is the current choice! Despite showing quite a bit of intelligence he still manages to be surprised by his own tail on the daily. He may have a bit of an wonky donkey smile having been born with a cleft lip but he was voted the most handsome boy in a completely unbiased survey of our house. The most perfect Nose of Tralee I did ever see!

 

 

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