1 / 6

Irish Setter

Irish Setter, Red Setter, Irish Red Setter

The Irish Setter is a beautiful, active and friendly hunting dog with a rich red coat and a strong love of movement.

Pets of this breed Back to list
Rating

Breed characteristics

Activity 10/10
Trainability 8/10
Good with children 9/10
Shedding 7/10
Guarding 4/10
Care 7/10
Description

About the breed

The Irish Setter should be chosen consciously. A future owner should consider origin, working qualities, temperament, activity level and lifestyle needs.

Breed history

The Irish Setter developed as a distinct breed in Ireland around the seventeenth to eighteenth centuries. The red color was fixed by selection and the breed was used for hunting.

Appearance and features

It is a large athletic dog with long silky coat, hanging ears, lean body and elegant movement.

Temperament

The Setter is friendly, emotional, active and very family-loving. It is usually good with children but needs movement and attention.

Training

It is intelligent and trainable but bored by repetition. Play, praise, treats, scent work and agility suit it well.

Care and lifestyle

It needs long walks, running, active games and regular brushing of the long coat, especially ears, chest and tail.

Health

Ears, joints, stomach, eyes and skin should be monitored, with weight control and suitable exercise.

Best suited for

Best for an active family, hunter or owner who enjoys movement and can give the dog plenty of time.

Temperament

Temperament and behavior

The Setter is friendly, emotional, active and very family-loving. It is usually good with children but needs movement and attention.

In daily life, temperament shows in reactions to family members, children, guests and other animals. Even a friendly breed needs early socialization, clear rules and calm guidance.

With enough exercise and regular training, the dog becomes easier to manage, more confident and more comfortable as a companion.

Care

Care and keeping

It needs long walks, running, active games and regular brushing of the long coat, especially ears, chest and tail.

Daily routine

The dog benefits from a stable feeding schedule, age-appropriate walks, weight control and regular checks of ears, eyes, teeth, nails and paws.

Grooming

Brushing frequency depends on coat type. After active walks, check the skin, paws and coat, especially after rain, tall grass, forest paths or hunting-style activity.