The Irish Wolfhound Association of the West Coast was organized in the late fall of 1940 by a small group of Irish Wolfhound owners for the purpose of promoting the breed and acquainting the public with their grand qualities. Officers were chosen, a set of rules and by-laws (modeled after those of the Irish Wolfhound Club of America) were drawn up, and the group petitioned the parent club for membership and permission to hold its first annual specialty show.
The IWAWC encourages sportsmanlike competition at dogs shows, obedience and field trials, and matches under the rules of the American Kennel Club. We encourage participation in canine good citizenship, companion, and therapy dog activities.
We also maintain an active rescue program for abused, surrendered, or abandoned Irish Wolfhounds.