Kildare's Albus vies for Nose of Tralee
Albus the dog
A LOVABLE pup from Kildare Town has been selected to represent Co Kildare in this year's Nose of Tralee competition after impressing judges as part of over 1,800 entries.
Ten-month-old Albus, affectionately known as Albie, was chosen as Kildare's representative after progressing through several rounds of judging and public voting.
The annual online competition, now in its 13th year, celebrates pets from across Ireland, with one finalist representing each of the country's 32 counties.
Albus is a striking Saint Bernese – a cross between a Saint Bernard and a Bernese Mountain Dog.
Despite already weighing an impressive 47kg, owner Rebecca Coogan describes him as a "gentle giant" with a calm and affectionate personality that wins over everyone he meets.
"There were over 1,800 entries this year," Rebecca explained. "The competition was first narrowed down to 96 pets, with three finalists selected for each county. Albus was then chosen to represent Kildare.”
So now Albus is up against furry contestants from each county in Ireland for the title of ‘Nose of Tralee’.
Voting for the national title opens on 24 July and continues until 17 August, with the winner decided entirely by public vote.
Although the competition is all in good fun, Rebecca says she is thrilled to see Albus recognised.
"He's loving all the attention," she said. "It's a bit of craic, but we're incredibly proud of him."
Albus may still be a puppy, but he has already built a reputation as an exceptionally intelligent and well-mannered dog.
Rebecca has spent months training him, and he can perform a variety of tricks, including giving a high five, weaving through her legs, rolling over on command and even asking for water by tapping the family's ice dispenser.
He’s also made a big impact at his local doggy daycare centre, where he plays gently with those smaller than him.
Living just minutes from the Curragh, Albus enjoys daily walks across the open plains and woodland trails, where he loves running through the fields.
Rebecca told the that His name, Albus, was chosen because it means "bright" and "white", a fitting tribute to both his intelligence and the distinctive white blaze down his face and the white "boots" on his front paws. To vote for Albus, check out www.petsittersireland.com/nose-2026.
