A gifted all-around hunting dog, the Irish Setter is quick and agile in the field. Both a pointer and a retriever, this versatile breed is especially adept at hunting game birds – although the Setter’s great beauty and lovable personality insure that this dog’s main job nowadays is to be a treasured household companion for pet lovers the world over. The Setter is the 64th most popular breed registered with the AKC in the United States.

History and Origin

Originally known in the USas the Irish Red Setter, this breed was developed in 18th century Ireland. By crossbreeding a variety of spaniels, setters and pointers, the aim was to create an ideal all-around hunting dog. Originally a red & white dog with shorter legs than today's breed, the beautiful red setter we know today is a result of intensive selective breeding in the 19th century. Today's Irish Setter is usually bred as a show dog or as a family companion, though its hunting instincts are still good, when called upon. A favorite pet of USpresidents Richard Nixon and Harry Truman, this beloved dog has won the hearts of pet lovers everywhere. The popular book and movie “Big Red” were also based on the life of an Irish Setter.

General Information

At its best, theIrish Setter is a joyous bundle of energy - intelligent, affectionate and full of enthusiasm. Having no guarding instincts, this happy-go-lucky breed greets kids, other dogs and the neighborhood cat burglar with equal delight. Independent yet quite sensitive, this breed can sometimes become high strung and shy, unless properly socialized from early puppyhood. Notoriously difficult to train, this dog has gotten a bad rap as being not particularly smart – not so; a perfectly intelligent breed, it’s just a wee bit stubborn and possibly not so eager to learn whatever you’re trying to teach it. Start training this breed firmly yet gently in early puppyhood, to prevent rampant development of bad habits. Early and consistent obedience training and socialization are highly recommended to help your Setter puppy grow up to be a good citizen and valued family member.

Faster and with more endurance than other setter breeds, The Irish Setter is excellent for all types of hunting. Best suited to country life – or at least a great big suburban yard – the Setter needs plenty of regular exercise. This versatile gun dog’s talents include hunting, tracking, retrieving, pointing, agility and competitive obedience.

Daily brushing and combing of the coat is required to keep it healthy, shiny and free of burrs, mats, debris and tangles.

Health Ailments

The Irish Setter is especially prone to epilepsy and severe skin allergies. It is also prone to eye problems, elbow & hip dysplasia, PRA, auto-immune disease and hypothyroidism. The ears should be watched carefully for ear inflammation as this can turn into a serious condition requiring surgery. Prone to bloat, it’s recommended to feed your Setter 2 or 3 small meals a day instead of one big one.

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