Read About Irish Setter

The regal, sophisticated Irish Setter started as a hunter, but is more of a pet these days. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Summary:

1. Size:

   Large dogs

2. Weight:

   60-70 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Irish Setters have medium length, silky coats with lovely, extensive feathering. The coat should never be wavy or curled.

4. Shedding:

   Seasonally heavy shedders

5. Temperament:

   Irish Setters are affectionate, loving, and sensitive dogs. They can be very active, so need a great deal of exercise.

6. Obedience:

   They are mostly obedient, but are a little excitable and high-strung, so need careful attention.

7. Ease of Training:

   Irish Setters can be a bit challenging to train; they are excitable and sensitive, and can be easily distracted. Once they learn something, however, they generally retain it.

8. Way with Children:

   This breed is often good with children, but not incredibly patient.

- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Sporting Group/1990

2. Size & Weight:

   25-27"; 60-70 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Irish Setters have medium length, silky coats with lovely, extensive feathering. The coat should never be wavy or curled.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Slender and long, Irish Setters are supermodel dogs.

5. Body:

   A lean, elegant body, stunning feathering, and dignified carriage are the hallmarks of the Irish Setter. They are deep chested and slender.

6. Colors:

   Red, ranging from rich mahogany to chestnut tones.

7. Life Expectancy:

   12-14 years

8. Popularity:

   Irish Setters are moderately popular, attaining an AKC rank in the 60s.

9. Habitat:

   Irish Setters do best in families where they can get lots of love and attention.

- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Ireland

2. Historical Information:

   Initially bred as a gun and bird dog, the Irish Setter was overshadowed in these tasks by other dogs, and came to be bred for appearance and coat.

- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Irish Setters are affectionate, loving, and sensitive dogs. They can be very active, so need a great deal of exercise.

2. Behavior:

   Lively, bouncy, and impulsive, Irish Setters are fun-loving, but can be a little tiring.

3. Habits:

   Their impetuous natures can make Irish Setters prime "run away" candidates, so be sure to keep them leashed until your dog is actually trained and working as a bird dog. They can also be high-strung and oversensitive.

- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Unfortunately, Irish Setters do have some common ills. Among these are: • Bloat (gastric torsion) • Infections, including ear and the uterus • Skin disorders, including lick dermatitis, allergies • Skeletal disorders, including osteosarcomas, cervical disk disease, hip dysplasia, hypertrophic osteodystrophy (bone disease with significant pain and inflammation), and panostetitis (inflammation of long bones during growth that persists until full maturity) • Hypothyroidism • Entropion of the eyes • Epilepsy

2. Exercise Needs:

   Irish Setters need a lot of exercise.

3. Grooming Needs:

   This breed needs daily grooming and is sometimes trimmed to accentuate their body lines.

4. Travel Needs:

   Large dogs should always be transported with caution; because Irish Setters tend to nerviness, be especially careful.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   This breed is often good with children, but not incredibly patient.

- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Clear eyes, sleek coats, and tons of energy.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Puppies are small and explore a lot. Be sure that there is anything that your dog can get into, pull out, or chew is safe for him.