The mahogany red Irish Setter is one of the most distinctive, active, aristocratic bird dogs. This is a sporting breed and was originally bred in red and white color, but solid red appeared in 19th century and became a mark of its superior sporting ability. The dog is known for its style, power and clown-like personality.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: Ireland
Used for: Hunting, tracking, retrieving, pointing, watchdog
Average Life Span: 11-15 years
Color: Mahogany to rich chestnut red
Coat: Short, fine and glossy
Average Height: 26-28 inches
Average Weight: 65-75 pounds
Group: Gun dog, Sporting group AKC
History and Domestication
The Irish Setter became a popular sporting breed in the British Isles and Ireland in the 18th century. It was developed from a mix of Irish Terrier, Irish Water Spaniel, Spaniel Pointer, English Setter and GordonSetter. The dog was originally used to “set” game which included crouching low near the birds so that the hunters could throw their nets. With the introduction of firearms, the dog adapted into a gundog that pointed, flushed and hunted.
Standard Physical Characteristics
The Irish Setter is a powerful and aristocratic dog known for its distinctive style. The head is long and lean and the skull is oval and slightly domed. The muzzle is deep with a well-defined stop. The black or brown nose has wide open nostrils. The almond-shaped eyes are medium in size and set wide-apart and can be in shades of brown. The triangular ears are low-set and hang close to the head.
Care, Grooming and Health
The soft and medium length coat needs to be brushed and combed daily to remain in excellent shape. These dogs do not require a lot of grooming. The coat must be kept free from tangles and burrs during the time it is shedding. This breed sheds moderately.
All setters need a long, brisk walk on everyday basis. They may also be taken for jogging or allowed to run alongside your bike to avoid making them restless. They will also enjoy a free run in a large fenced-in yard. Irish setter tends to bloat so feed 2 or 3 small meals a day. They are also prone to epilepsy, elbow and hip dysplasia, severe skin allergies and ear infections.
Living Conditions
Unless the owners are active and plan to take the dog for jogging or running, these dogs are not recommended for an apartment life. These dogs require a large yard.
Temperament
The Irish Setters are intelligent, affectionate, high-spirited and loving dogs that are always full of energy. They get along with other pets and children and have no guarding instinct. They need lot of physical exercise or may become high-strung and destructive. They need firm handling as they sensitive to the tone of one’s voice. They will also not respond well to harsh discipline. Their outgoing and stable temperament makes them a favorite with families and kids.
