One of President Michael D Higgins' two Bernese mountain dogs, Bród, has died at the age of 11.
In a statement, the president's office said he and his wife Sabina are sad to confirm Bród - whose name means pride - has passed away at the age of 11 years.
They said Bród was 11 years and two months at the president's home, Áras an Uachtaráin, having arrived as a eight-week-old puppy.
"Bród was a very much loved dog by all that met him and he enjoyed meeting with the thousands of members of the public who came to Áras an Uachtaráin over the years and he was probably one of the most photographed dogs in Ireland," they said.
Bród was regularly seen during engagements with President Higgins' other dog, Misneach.
Misneach is two and a half years old, and has shared his space with Bród over recent months and was his constant companion, aware of Bród's situation and very attentive to him, they said.
Prior to Misneach’s arrival in March 2021, Bród had been kept company by Síoda, another Bernese Mountain Dog.
She died following a short illness in September 2020.
Both Bród agus Síoda also featured in many photos together at the Áras welcoming dignitaries, world leaders and guests.
