In ancient Ireland, the Cu prefix marked the highest nobility - those permitted to own the legendary Irish Wolfhounds. These massive dogs, standing over 7 feet tall on their hind legs, were so prestigious that only kings and chieftains could legally possess them. The most famous bearer of the Cu- prefix was Cúchulainn, whose name meant Hound of Culann. As a young warrior, he killed a fierce guard dog belonging to the smith Culann. To make amends, he offered to take the slain hound's place as Cul