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An aristocratic bird dog known for his style, powerful movement and clown-like personality, the Irish Setter became popular in the 18th century throughout Ireland and the British Isles. This merry, friendly breed has a stable, outgoing temperament, making him a great family companion. The Irish Setter requires regular exercise, and his long, glossy, red coat must be groomed regularly.
DID YOU KNOW? The famed “Dog Whisperer” Cesar Millan’s first pet was an Irish Setter named “Saluki.”
ALSO KNOWN AS: Red Setter, Irish Red Setter
| Life Span: | 12-15 years |
| Weight: | 30.5kg for males and 26kg for females |
| Height: | Adult males measure 65cm and females measure 61cm |
| Colours: | Chestnut and mahogany |
| Size: | Large |
| Kennel Club group: | Gundog |
| Family-friendly: | 5/5 |
| Exercise needs: | 5/5 |
| Easy to train: | 4/5 |
| Tolerates being alone: | 2/5 |
| Likes other pets: | 5/5 |
| Energy level: | 5/5 |
| Grooming needs: | 3/5 |
| Shedding: | 4/5 |
The well-bred, well-socialised and well-trained Irish Setter is extraordinarily sweet and makes an affectionate, loyal family pet. Early exposure to cats and careful supervision is essential if they are to share a home with them - and they may not be safe with strange cats or any small furry animals.
Being terribly friendly, this is not a good guard dog, though he will announce the presence of a visitor. The Irish Setter remains playful throughout his life - one of his more endearing traits. They are often thought of as being a bit ditzy and brainless - or even highly strung - but this is generally because people buy them for their glamour and underestimate how much exercise and input this working dog needs to stay healthy and happy.
Country of Origin: Ireland
The setter group are dogs who hunt game birds silently and largely by scent, then when they locate them, ‘set’ (crouch or lie down) rather than flush or chase.
The Irish Setter is the oldest of the setter group, preceding both the Gordon and English Setters. It is believed the breed developed from old spaniels and indeed the breed was originally called the Red Spaniel. While the breed was developed as a setter for netting birds, it later became a more general gundog and could be trained as a pointer as well. Their eye-catching colour led them effortlessly into the show ring where the breed was further glamourised by adding influences from breeds such as the Borzoi. Despite that, they remained an efficient and energetic hunting dog - a perfect mix of beauty and brains.
