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Irish Setter Dog Breed
Irish Setters were developed in Ireland in the 18th century as hunting dogs. Today, Irish Setters are used as a gun dogs to flush fowl. They need a lot of daily exercise, otherwise they become nervous and destructive. They make wonderful family pets and are great companions for children. They must be leashed when they are walked as they tend to run off. The color of their coat is mahogany or rich chestnut red.
This breed was first developed as a net and falcon setter. The Red setter was always revered as an amazing hunting dog. His ability to search out and find birds, especially in the rough country, is probably unsurpassed in the dog world. But he is not an easy dog to train and requires a lot of patience. It is fast, thorough and endlessly enthusiastic. He is used for hunting woodcock, partridge, pheasant, wild duck and teal, and can be trained to work as a pointer as well as a setter.
The Irish Setters are very independent, they can be real stubborn and temperamental. Early consistent training is highly recommended. With their families they are trustworthy and loyal. However, this is a working breed which needs lots of daily exercise and is regarded by many as unsuitable for apartment living.
Photo courtesy of Touchstone Setters
Irish Setter Breed Outline
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Country of Origin: | Ireland |
| FCI Classification: |
Group 7 - Pointing Dogs; British and Irish Pointers and Setters (with working trial) |
| Utilization: |
Hunting and companion dog |
| AKC Classification: |
Sporting Group |
| Personality: | Keen, intelligent, energetic, affectionate and loyal. |
| Size Category: | Large |
| Height: | 25-27 inches at shoulder |
| Colors: |
Rich chestnut with no trace of black; white on chest, throat, and toes; or small star on forehead or narrow streak or blaze on nose or face. |
| Other Names: | Red Dog, Red setter |
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Average Litter Size: | 9 |
| Life Span: | 10-14 years |
| Grooming Requirements: |
The coat should be regularly brushed to keep it free of dirt and mats. Special attention should be given to ears. |
| Shedding: | Little |
| Social skills: | Irish Setters are peaceful with other animals. |
| Suitability for Children: | Very good with children of all ages. |
| Exercise Needs: | This is a high energy breed and it is not recommended for apartment life. Irish Setters need a lots of daily exercise or they can become hyperactive, destructive and generally unruly. |
| Train Ability: | Irish Setters are very trainable and eager to please, but they can be hard to house break. |
| Health & Behavior Issues: | Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, ear infections, epilepsy and skin allergies. |
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