If you’ve done the parade a gazillion times, and don’t want to waste the day (literally) in the pub this St Patrick’s Day, why not head for the annual Irish Kennel Club National Dog Show? Held in the club’s big arena just past the airport on the way to Swords (it comes up a bit unexpectedly, so watch for it on the right), the show is a really fun day out, especially for families as kids will get a real kick out of looking at all the breeds, hearing all the barking, and petting a few furries. The art of primping, fluffing and drying is on view constantly too (and that’s just the show people). There’s also an in-house cafeteria (serving pretty plain food! but kids will love it; sarnies, and everything with chips) so you can make a good day of it. Action is taking place all day Friday, and Saturday as well, but if going Saturday don’t arrive much later than mid-morning or you’ll miss all the action as it winds down fast once most have done their bit.

Basically, Friday is most of the larger dogs while Saturday is the toy breeds — the latter being a bit more silly and entertaining, I think, mainly as they are more primped and styled and in some cases hilariously small. There’s also agility and so on happening outside so hopefully the weather won’t be too vile. It’s a few euro in, pretty cheap at the price for an unusual day out. If watching a bit of Crufts this past week got you into the mood, check out www.ikc.ie for directions and further info. Oh and bring some cash if you own a dog as there’s great shopping to be had at excellent prices; merchants come from all over the island as well as the UK to ply their doggy wares.