Irish Setter
Flashy red setter with tireless energy and joyful personality
Breed Origins
The Irish Setter developed in Ireland during the 18th century. Originally, Irish setters came in both red and red-and-white patterns. The solid red dogs eventually became the preferred type, and by the mid-1800s, the rich mahogany coat that defines the breed had become standard.
The foundation stock likely included English Setter, Irish Terrier, Irish Water Spaniel, Gordon Setter, and Pointer. Irish sportsmen developed these dogs for finding and setting (pointing) game birds across the varied terrain of the Irish countryside.
Irish Setters were imported to America in the early 1800s and gained AKC recognition in 1878. The breed achieved peak popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, though this popularity led to divergence between show and field types.
Development as a Hunting Dog
The Irish Setter was developed as a fast, wide-ranging bird dog suited to the open spaces of Ireland. They were bred to cover ground quickly while maintaining contact with their handlers, a balance that made them effective on both quail and pheasant.
In America, the breed's popularity as a show dog and pet led to significant divergence from working lines. Show-bred Irish Setters are typically larger and more heavily coated, while field-bred dogs are smaller, lighter, and more athletic.
Field-bred Irish Setters remain capable hunters, prized for their speed, enthusiasm, and stylish points. The Red Setter, maintained by dedicated breeders, represents the original hunting type and is considered a distinct strain by some organizations.
Historical Timeline
Red setters documented in Ireland
First Irish Setters imported to America
AKC grants breed recognition
National Red Setter Field Trial Club formed
Physical Characteristics
Size
Show type: Males 27 inches, 70 lbs. Females 25 inches, 60 lbs. Field type (Red Setters): Generally smaller and lighter, 45-55 lbs.
Coat
Long, silky, flat coat with abundant feathering on ears, chest, legs, belly, and tail. Show dogs have profuse coats; field dogs carry less feathering for easier maintenance.
Colors
Rich mahogany to chestnut red. Small amounts of white on chest, throat, toes, or a narrow blaze are acceptable. The coat should have a rich, lustrous sheen.
Build
Elegant, racy build with clean lines. Deep chest, well-sprung ribs, and strong hindquarters. Built for speed and endurance with effortless movement.
Breed Standard Highlights
- Head: Long and lean; muzzle and skull roughly equal length
- Expression: Soft, alert, intelligent; almond-shaped dark brown eyes
- Ears: Set low and well back; hanging in neat folds close to head
- Tail: Strong at root, tapering; carried level or slightly below back
- Movement: Big, flowing stride; effortless, ground-covering gait
The Red Setter
Field-bred Irish Setters, often called "Red Setters," are smaller and more athletic than show dogs. The National Red Setter Field Trial Club maintains the hunting type, and some registries recognize them as a distinct breed.
Personality
The Irish Setter is known for its outgoing, friendly, and mischievous personality. These dogs approach life with enthusiasm and joy, greeting everyone as a potential friend. Their ebullient nature makes them delightful companions but can be overwhelming for those expecting a calm, reserved dog.
Irish Setters are intelligent but can be easily distracted—they're often described as perpetual puppies in their outlook on life. They mature slowly, both mentally and physically, and may retain puppy-like behavior well into adulthood.
In the field, Irish Setters are enthusiastic hunters with good noses and natural pointing instinct. They hunt with obvious joy, their beautiful red coats flashing through cover as they search for birds.
Family Compatibility
Irish Setters make wonderful family dogs for active households. They're excellent with children, patient and playful, and their friendly nature extends to strangers and other animals. They lack protective instincts but will alert to visitors.
Their high energy and need for attention make them best suited to families who can provide plenty of exercise and companionship. Irish Setters don't do well left alone for long periods and may develop destructive behaviors if bored or lonely.
Excellent—playful, patient, and energetic
Generally excellent—social and playful
Needs space and activity; not for sedentary homes
Training Approach
Irish Setters are intelligent and willing to please, but their exuberant nature and distractibility can make training challenging. They respond best to positive methods with plenty of variety—repetitive drills bore them quickly.
Patience is essential. Irish Setters mature slowly and may take longer to develop focus and reliability than other breeds. Training sessions should be short, fun, and end on a positive note.
Early socialization is important not because of shyness—Irish Setters are naturally friendly—but to help them learn appropriate behavior around new people and situations without becoming too exuberant.
Field Training
Field-bred Irish Setters (Red Setters) have strong hunting instincts that emerge early. Training should channel their natural enthusiasm while developing the focus needed for reliable field work.
Bird Introduction (8-12 weeks)
Early exposure to birds; let natural instincts develop in a fun environment.
Foundation Work (4-12 months)
Develop hunting desire and basic obedience. Keep sessions fun and varied.
Steadiness Training (12-24 months)
Develop steady to wing and shot. Irish Setters need patience here.
Finished Work (2+ years)
Polish and refine as mental maturity develops. Many continue improving for years.
Common Health Issues
Irish Setters are generally healthy but have some breed-specific health concerns. The breed's popularity led to some health issues that responsible breeders work to minimize through testing.
Bloat (GDV)
Deep-chested breeds are at high risk. Learn symptoms and prevention; consider prophylactic gastropexy.
Hip Dysplasia
Occurs at moderate rates. OFA evaluation recommended for breeding dogs.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Eye disease causing vision loss. DNA test available for the rod-cone type.
Hypothyroidism
Can develop in middle age. Regular thyroid testing recommended.
Lifespan & Genetics
Irish Setters typically live 12-15 years. The field-bred Red Setter often shows excellent health and longevity due to selection for working ability rather than appearance.
Recommended Health Tests
- • Hip evaluation (OFA)
- • Ophthalmologist evaluation
- • PRA DNA test (rcd1 and rcd4)
- • Thyroid evaluation
- • CLAD test (Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency)
Bloat Prevention
Irish Setters are highly susceptible to bloat due to their deep chests. Feed 2-3 smaller meals, avoid exercise around feeding times, and use a slow-feeder bowl. Many owners opt for prophylactic gastropexy during spay/neuter.
Hunting Style
The Irish Setter (particularly the field-bred Red Setter) is a fast, wide-ranging bird dog. They cover ground with speed and enthusiasm, their distinctive red coat making them easy to spot even at distance.
Field-bred Irish Setters point with style and intensity. They hunt with obvious joy, their tails wagging as they quarter through cover. While not as methodical as some breeds, their speed and athleticism allow them to cover extensive ground.
The breed has a good nose and natural hunting instincts. With proper training, Irish Setters can be effective on various upland birds. Their eager nature makes them enthusiastic partners in the field.
Best Game & Terrain
Primary Game Birds
Ideal Terrain
- • Open fields and prairie
- • Agricultural lands
- • Light to moderate cover
- • Mixed upland habitat
- • Areas where range is beneficial
Speed and Style
A well-trained Irish Setter hunting quail or pheasant is a beautiful sight. Their speed, style, and striking appearance make them among the most attractive of bird dogs to watch work.
Important Distinction
For serious hunting, seek field-bred Red Setters rather than show-bred Irish Setters. The difference in hunting ability can be dramatic. The National Red Setter Field Trial Club maintains hunting bloodlines.
Exercise Needs
Irish Setters have very high exercise requirements. They're energetic dogs that need significant daily activity to remain healthy and well-behaved. Without adequate exercise, they can become hyperactive and destructive.
Exercise Level
Minimum 1-2 hours of vigorous activity daily
• Running off-leash in safe areas (essential)
• Long hikes or jogging
• Field training and hunting
• Fetch and retrieving games
• Dog sports: agility, lure coursing
Warning: Irish Setters can be challenging for first-time dog owners due to their energy and slow maturity. They need active owners committed to daily exercise.
Grooming & Nutrition
Grooming Requirements
The long, silky coat requires regular attention:
- • Brush thoroughly 2-3 times per week
- • Daily brushing during shedding season
- • Check ears weekly; prone to infection
- • Trim feet and between pads
- • Field dogs benefit from shorter feathering
- • Professional grooming helpful but not essential
Nutrition
Active Irish Setters need quality fuel:
- • High-quality food appropriate for activity level
- • 2-3 cups daily, split into 2-3 meals (bloat prevention)
- • Never exercise within 1 hour of meals
- • Monitor weight—should be lean
- • Increase calories during hunting season
Finding a Breeder
For hunting, specifically seek field-bred Red Setters rather than show-line Irish Setters. The National Red Setter Field Trial Club and its breeders are the best source for hunting dogs.
The Irish Setter Club of America can provide referrals, though many of their breeders focus on show dogs. Be specific about your hunting intentions when contacting breeders.
Evaluate breeders carefully. Ask about hunting backgrounds, health testing, and temperament. Visit if possible and see the dogs work or at least observe their energy and drive.
What to Look For
- Health clearances (hips, eyes, PRA, thyroid)
- Field-bred (Red Setter) bloodlines
- Parents actively hunted or competed
- Balanced temperament—friendly but focused
- Breeder's reputation in field community
Rescue Options
Irish Setter rescue groups exist across the country. Many rescues are surrendered due to the breed's high energy—not behavioral problems. Adult dogs let you see personality and sometimes hunting instinct.
Expected Costs
Field-bred Red Setter puppies typically range from $800-$1,500. Show-line Irish Setters may cost more but are less suited to hunting. Quality hunting bloodlines are worth seeking out.
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