A gorgeous reddish-brown coat sets the Irish Setter apart from all other dog breeds. This smart and sleek hunting dog makes a fabulous companion for active owners, and as a bonus is usually very long-lived as well.
Quick Stats
Group: Sporting
Size: Large
Height: 24-27 inches (61- 68.5cm.)
Weight: 60-70 pounds (27-32 kg.)
Shedding: Moderate
Grooming: Moderate
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Irish Setter History
The breed as we know it came into being during the 1800s in Ireland. However, similar to other setters it is believed that it originated from the Spanish Pointer. It was created to function as a bird hunting dog that would lie or “set,” down to indicate when there was game present.
The Irish Setter was also used to retrieve game as well. Because of its attractive looks, it didn’t take long for it to become popular as a companion animal too.
Irish Setter Characteristics
The Irish Setter stands between twenty-five and twenty-seven inches tall and weighs between sixty and seventy pounds. It has a long and slender head with a body that is longer than it is tall. The ears are thin, soft, and hang close to the head. The tail tapers to a point and is carried horizontally. The Irish Setter coat is short on the head but long and sleek everywhere else, including on the feet.
It can be straight or wavy but should not be curly. In terms of color is either mahogany or chestnut. (Because of its beauty, the coat is considered the breed’s most notable feature.) In general, dogs from show lines are darker in color, have heavier coats, and have larger bodies. Working lines on the other hand are lighter and smaller with a shorter coat.
Irish Setter Health
As with all dog types, this breed is known to be affected by certain health conditions. The most common Irish Setter health problems include:
-hip dysplasia
-hypothyroidism
-retinal atrophy
-spondylosis (osteoarthritis)
-hypertrophic osteodystrophy
-gastric torsion (bloat)
-ear infections
The average Irish Setter lifespan is from twelve to fifteen years making it quite long-lived.
Irish Setter Temperament
This breed is very friendly and makes a loyal companion that loves to be around people. However, while they may bark to let you know there is a stranger on your property, their love of people means they don’t make good guard dogs. The Irish setter is an energetic and playful dog that is very patient with children.
But because they do play a bit rough, play sessions with kids should be supervised. While they typically get along very well with other dogs, because of their hunting roots they should not be trusted with smaller pets. This breed is both athletic and intelligent with a tendency to be independent.
Irish Setter Care
Daily exercise sessions and play are a must for this active breed. However, walking or running with an Irish Setter should be done on a leash since they may chase small animals or take off on a scent trail. For this reason, backyards should also have secure fencing.
This is not a dog that does well in an apartment or when confined to a kennel. While grooming is not as tedious as with other long-haired dog breeds, the coat will need to be brushed every day to help prevent it from becoming matted.
Irish Setter Facts
-Irish Setter puppies mature slowly. Because of this fact, you’ll want to continue training your pet into its adult years.
-The ancestors of this breed were actually red and white. This color combination was preferred at the time because contrast on the coat made the dogs easier to see when in the field.
-The sleek and long-legged physique of this setter was developed so that it could move quickly over the flat and open Irish landscape.
-In the past because of its coat color, this breed was known as the Irish Red Setter. However, in recent times the name has been shortened.
-While they are excellent gun dogs the Irish Setter can also be very successful and often excels in activities such as Flyball, agility, tracking, and obedience.
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Serbian Dog Breeds
While the Republic of Serbia was part of Yugoslavia for most of the 20th century, today it is an independent state. And as such, it has three official Serbian dog breeds to call its very own. So here are the dog breeds from Serbia and what you’ll want to know about...
Long-Haired Dog Breeds
There's a certain elegance and beauty when it comes to dogs with long hair. While these breeds do require extra maintenance and patience, they're well worth it not just for their stunning coats but of course for the companionship they provide as well. So here are some...
Swiss Mountain Dog Breeds
The Swiss Sennenhunds or Swiss mountain dogs are a unique group of dogs with tricolor coats from the Swiss Alps. And while experts may disagree on their exact origins, one thing is for sure these canines are a special bunch. So here are the four types of Swiss...
Setter Dog Breeds
The setter breeds are known for their top-notch bird hunting abilities, intelligence, love for their family, and of course their long and attractive coats. While they may be similar, each of them is uniquely different. So here are all four of the setter dog breeds and...
Finnish Dog Breeds
With over 180,000 lakes and the majority of its land covered by green forests, Finland is a country of natural beauty. It has long, freezing, and dark Arctic winters. However during the short summer months, the sun is shining around the clock, this natural phenomenon...
Prague Ratter Facts And Information
The Prague Ratter is a rare dog from the Czech Republic. These small yet feisty dogs make wonderful companions and are also very popular for keeping away rats and other vermin. Keep reading to find out more amazing Prague Ratter facts and information! The Prague...
Brazilian Terrier Facts
True to its name, the Brazilian Terrier is a Brazilian dog breed that was initially bred for chasing down rats and other vermin. And there is a lot you’ll want to know about these amazing little dogs. So keep reading to find out more amazing Brazilian Terrier facts...
Alaskan Dog Breeds
Alaska is considered by many to be the “Last Frontier.” It’s a state that is well-known for its majestic natural beauty and at the same time for being a place that is wild and unforgiving. So it’s no surprise that the dog breeds from Alaska were developed not only to...
Rough Collie Facts And Information
The Rough Collie is a large, courageous dog breed that excels in hard work. These dogs are also highly affectionate and make great family pets. Read on to find out more Rough Collie facts and information! They Originated In Scotland And Wales Two Collie dogs...
Romanian Miortic Shepherd Dog Facts
True to its name, the Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog is a Romanian dog breed that specializes in protecting livestock. These gentle giants also make wonderful family companions. Read on to find out more amazing Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog facts and information! The...
Fila Brasileiro Facts
The Fila Brasileiro is a Brazilian breed known for its strength, tenacity, and occasional aggressiveness. These dogs are highly protective of their owners and are not at all suitable for novice owners. Read on to find out more amazing Fila Brasileiro facts and...
Old English Sheepdog Facts
The Old English Sheepdog is the most classic of the shaggy-looking dogs. These intelligent and athletic dogs are hard workers, but they also make loving family companions. Read on to find out more amazing Old English Sheepdog facts and information! The Old English...
Cesky Fousek Facts
The Cesky Fousek, also known as the Bohemian Wire-Haired Pointing Griffon, or the Bohemian Wirehaired Pointer, is a versatile hunting breed. These dogs make excellent hunting companions, but they are also a popular choice as guard dogs. Read on to find out more Cesky...
Cesky Terrier Facts
The Cesky Terrier, also known sometimes as the Bohemian Terrier or Czech Terrier, is a lively dog breed with a penchant for playfulness. These dogs can be wary with strangers, but are incredibly affectionate to their family members. Read on to find out more amazing...
Russian Spaniel Facts And Information
The Russian Spaniel is a versatile gundog, watchdog, and even a loving family companion. These small dogs are strong and athletic, as well as devoted to their owners. Read on to find out more amazing Russian Spaniel facts and information! The Russian Spaniel Is A New...
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Facts
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a small dog with a big name and an even bigger heart. These dogs were bred to hunt rabbits, but also make energetic and loving companions. Read on to find out more amazing Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen facts and information! The...
Short-Legged Hounds
Hounds with short legs aren’t just adorable, but they have many advantages over their long-legged counterparts. While each specific breed is different typically shorter dogs can get into areas where bigger canines can’t and they’re also slower, which allows them to be...
Dogs With Yellow Eyes
There’s no doubt that dogs with yellow eyes make quite an impression. And there are quite a few special canines that have this unique and recessive trait. So here are some of the top dog breeds with yellow eyes and what you’ll want to know about each of them....
Sled Dog Breeds
Sled dogs have been used for centuries to carry important goods across frigid and difficult terrain. These hard-working dogs also make amazing pets! The following are the best sled dog breeds and what you'll want to know about each of them. What Makes a Great Sled...
Finnish Lapphund Facts
The Finnish Lapphund is a medium-sized dog that was bred to herd reindeer in its native country, Finland. These intelligent and energetic dogs are extremely popular in the Nordic countries, but can be difficult to find in other places. Read on to find out more amazing...