Irish Setter

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.