Wexford dog selected as finalist for Nose of Tralee

A Wexford pet has been selected as a finalist for the upcoming Nose of Tralee competition…

After receiving a record-breaking 1,805 entries and more than 68,000 public votes, the 2026 Nose of Tralee has officially announced its Final 32 – one pet from each county who will now compete for the coveted title of 2026 Nose of Tralee.

Organised by Pet Sitters Ireland, the annual competition celebrates the personalities, stories and special bond between pets and their owners. This year’s competition once again captured the hearts of pet lovers across Ireland, with thousands of people voting to help their favourite pets progress to the next stage.

Following the public vote, the top three pets from each county were reviewed by an independent judging panel, who selected one finalist to represent each county based on their photo and written entry.

The 32 finalists include an incredible mix of dogs, cats and other much-loved pets, each with their own unique story and personality.

Wexford dog, Maggie, has been selected as a finalist.

“She would 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, she is a natural winner,” Maggie’s owner said.

Kate McQuillan, founder of Pet Sitters Ireland and organiser of the Nose of Tralee, said:

“Every year, we’re amazed by the love people have for their pets, but this year’s competition has been our biggest yet. Receiving 1,805 entries and seeing so many people get behind their county favourites has been incredible. Our judges had a very difficult job choosing just one finalist from each county. The standard was exceptionally high and every finalist has a wonderful story to tell. We’re now looking forward to introducing the Final 32 and seeing Ireland get behind them in the final public vote.”

The final 32 will now go head-to-head in one last public vote to decide who will be crowned the 2026 Nose of Tralee.

Final voting opens on 24th July and runs until 17th August, with the overall winner announced on 18th August 2026.