Once called the Irish Red Setter, this high-spirited dog with a beautiful red coat is derived from a variety of setters, pointers and spaniels. Once having a red and white coat and much shorter legs to beautiful chestnut red color emerged during the 19th century as a result of very selective breeding. This dog was once used as a great all-around hunting dog as he has a good nose and is also very fast but today is bred mostly as a show dog.
Part of the American Kennel Club sporting group, the Irish setter was admitted to the club in the 19th century. According to the breed standard the dog should be between 24 and 28 inches in height and weight between 55 and 75 pounds. The Irish setter can be a long-lived dog and if given great care can exceed 15 years of age.
The Irish setter is somewhat of a streamlined dog with long muscular legs and a narrow chest. The crowning glory is the beautiful silky coat which comes in a chestnut or mahogany color and is long all over the body except for the face. the ears are thin and triangular and long in the nose brown or black. The eyes are dark hazel or chestnut color and detail has a fringe of hair and should be carried horizontally. These dogs are very quick and can cope with all sorts of climates and terrains.
Irish setters can be very high spirit and they are loaded with energy but also intelligent and affectionate dogs that make good pets for families that have the time to be sure that the dog gets enough exercise to expand his energy. They can be a bit impulsive and some may be high strung while others are a bit more reserved.
This breed can be prone to epilepsy and terrible skin allergies. They may also be prone to hypothyroidism and PRA which is an auto immune disease. Care should be taken with you ears as they can easily become inflamed and may actually end up having to be operated on.
Irish Setters do need a lot of energy and are not good apartment dogs. They do best with a large fenced in yard where they can run free. Regardless, you should take them for burst walk every day as this will be good for their health as well as your own.
To keep their beautiful lustrous coat in good condition, the Irish setter should be brushed every day. While he is only an average shedder, it is important to take good care of the coat to keep it free from tangles and burrs. He should be bathed or dry shampooed only when it is necessary.
