Setter (Irish)

Origins and History

The Irish Setter originated in the British Isles during the 18th century as a gundog bred to locate and point game birds. Early references describe a "red setter" used by Irish hunters, and the breed was refined in England and later in the United States where the modern standard was solidified. The Kennel Club (UK) recognised the breed in 1873 and the American Kennel Club (AKC) granted it full recognition in 1886. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries the Irish Setter became a popular field and show dog, celebrated for its striking mahogany coat and enthusiastic temperament.

General Characteristics

• Size and build: a tall, well‑proportioned sporting dog with a deep chest, long legs, and a graceful, slightly elongated outline.
• Temperament highlights: outgoing, sociable, and eager to please; retains a strong instinct to locate and point game.
• Primary breed purpose: originally a flushing and retrieving gundog; today also excels in conformation showing and companion roles.

Note: The information provided is intended as a general guide and may vary by individual dog or specific breeding line.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 24‑27 inches (61‑69 cm) at the withers; Females 23‑26 inches (58‑66 cm).
• Weight: Males typically 60‑70 lbs (27‑32 kg); Females 55‑65 lbs (25‑29 kg).

Coat and Color

• Texture and length: long, silky, feathered coat with a dense under‑coat; feathering on the ears, legs, tail, and under the neck.
• Accepted colors and patterns: a rich, deep mahogany (often described as "red") covering the body, with permissible white markings limited to a small blaze on the chest, a white tip on the tail, and occasional white on the toes.

Temperament Considerations

The Irish Setter is highly energetic and possesses a strong prey drive. Its enthusiasm can lead to distractibility in the ring if not properly focused. The breed thrives on positive reinforcement and benefits from consistent, reward‑based methods.

Training Essentials

• Socialization requirements: early exposure to a variety of people, dogs, sights, and sounds to temper the breed’s natural exuberance.
• Exercise needs: minimum 1‑2 hours of vigorous activity daily, including off‑lead running, fetch, or field work to satisfy its stamina.
• Common training challenges: tendency to become overly excited, occasional stubbornness when the scent of game is present, and a need for frequent mental stimulation.

Daily Grooming

• Brushing frequency and tools: brush 3‑4 times per week with a slicker brush and a metal comb to prevent matting of the feathering.
• Bathing requirements: bathe as needed (generally every 6‑8 weeks) using a mild dog shampoo; over‑bathing can strip the coat’s natural oils.
• Nail and dental care: trim nails every 3‑4 weeks; brush teeth several times per week and provide regular dental chews.

Show Preparation

• Pre‑show grooming timeline: begin daily brushing 2‑3 weeks before the show, schedule a professional coat conditioning and feather trim 5‑7 days prior, and perform a final hand‑strip of any loose hair 24‑48 hours before the ring.
• Ring presentation tips: ensure the coat lies flat and glossy, trim the feathering to the prescribed length (approximately 1‑2 inches on the ears and legs), and polish the nails to a medium shine for a neat appearance.

Common Health Issues

• Hip dysplasia – screen with OFA or PennHIP radiographs.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – DNA testing recommended for breeding stock.
• Hereditary cataracts – regular ophthalmologic examinations.
• Hypothyroidism – routine blood panels for early detection.
• Gastric dilatation‑volvulus (bloat) – consider prophylactic gastropexy in high‑risk lines.
• Certain cancers (e.g., lymphoma, mast cell tumor) – monitor for unexplained swelling or weight loss.

General Care

• Exercise requirements: sustained, moderate‑to‑high activity to maintain joint health and mental well‑being.
• Nutritional needs: high‑quality protein‑rich diet formulated for active sporting breeds; maintain ideal body condition to reduce strain on hips and spine.
• Lifespan considerations: average 12‑14 years; regular veterinary wellness exams help identify age‑related issues early.