Dog Breeds - Irish Setter

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed is likely to exhibit towards family members and individuals they are familiar with can vary. Certain breeds may display aloofness towards everyone except their owner while others tend to treat everyone they know as if they were their closest friend.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The level of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior, along with its overall family-friendly nature can differ from breed to breed. It is crucial to provide constant supervision when dogs interact with young children or children who may have limited experience with dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is important to always supervise dog interactions and introductions certain breeds may have a natural inclination to get along with other dogs, whether it be in a home setting or in public.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed is expected to shed can vary. Breeds with high shedding tendencies will require more frequent brushing are more likely to trigger certain allergies and may necessitate consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to manage the shedding.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming needs of a breed, including bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance tasks, can vary in terms of frequency. It is crucial to assess your available time, patience, and budget to determine the level of care you can dedicate to grooming. Additionally, it is important to remember that all breeds require regular nail trimming.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The drooling tendencies of a breed can vary. If you have a preference for cleanliness and are particular about avoiding ropes of slobber on your arm or large wet spots on your clothes it may be advisable to consider breeds that are less prone to excessive drooling.
COAT TYPE +
Silky
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of welcoming behavior a breed displays towards strangers can vary. Certain breeds may exhibit reserve or caution around all strangers, regardless of the setting whereas other breeds may eagerly greet and engage with new individuals whenever they are present.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The degree of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play can differ, even as they transition into adulthood. Some breeds may continue to actively engage in games like tug-of-war or fetch throughout their adult years. Conversely, other breeds are inclined to spend the majority of their time simply relaxing on the couch with their owners.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The tendency of a breed to alert you about the presence of strangers can differ. Certain breeds are more likely to respond to potential threats, whether it be the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. Nevertheless, these breeds typically have the capacity to become more accepting of strangers who are welcomed into the house by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The ease with which a breed handles change can differ. This encompasses their capacity to adapt to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather patterns, daily routines and other fluctuations that may occur in their day-to-day life

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things can vary among breeds. Some breeds are naturally inclined to seek approval from their owners and are eager to learn, while others may have a more independent streak and prefer to do things on their own terms.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed needs can differ. High-energy breeds are constantly eager for the next adventure and enjoy activities like running, jumping and playing for a significant portion of the day. Conversely, low-energy breeds are more inclined to spend their time peacefully lounging around and snoozing, resembling couch potatoes.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The tendency for a breed to vocalize, whether through barks or howls, can differ. Some breeds are prone to barking at any passer-by or even at birds near windows, while others reserve their vocalization for specific circumstances. It's worth noting that barkless breeds may still communicate through other sounds to express themselves.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The level of mental stimulation required for a breed to remain happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs, with roles that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other qualities, need adequate mental exercise. Without proper mental stimulation they may create their own activities to keep their minds busy and these activities may not align with your preferences.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a breed is likely to exhibit towards family members and individuals they are familiar with can vary. Certain breeds may display aloofness towards everyone except their owner while others tend to treat everyone they know as if they were their closest friend.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The level of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior, along with its overall family-friendly nature can differ from breed to breed. It is crucial to provide constant supervision when dogs interact with young children or children who may have limited experience with dogs.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is important to always supervise dog interactions and introductions certain breeds may have a natural inclination to get along with other dogs, whether it be in a home setting or in public.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed is expected to shed can vary. Breeds with high shedding tendencies will require more frequent brushing are more likely to trigger certain allergies and may necessitate consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to manage the shedding.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming needs of a breed, including bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance tasks, can vary in terms of frequency. It is crucial to assess your available time, patience, and budget to determine the level of care you can dedicate to grooming. Additionally, it is important to remember that all breeds require regular nail trimming.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The drooling tendencies of a breed can vary. If you have a preference for cleanliness and are particular about avoiding ropes of slobber on your arm or large wet spots on your clothes it may be advisable to consider breeds that are less prone to excessive drooling.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Silky

COAT SPECTRUM

Medium

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of welcoming behavior a breed displays towards strangers can vary. Certain breeds may exhibit reserve or caution around all strangers, regardless of the setting whereas other breeds may eagerly greet and engage with new individuals whenever they are present.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The degree of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play can differ, even as they transition into adulthood. Some breeds may continue to actively engage in games like tug-of-war or fetch throughout their adult years. Conversely, other breeds are inclined to spend the majority of their time simply relaxing on the couch with their owners.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

The tendency of a breed to alert you about the presence of strangers can differ. Certain breeds are more likely to respond to potential threats, whether it be the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. Nevertheless, these breeds typically have the capacity to become more accepting of strangers who are welcomed into the house by their family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The ease with which a breed handles change can differ. This encompasses their capacity to adapt to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather patterns, daily routines and other fluctuations that may occur in their day-to-day life

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things can vary among breeds. Some breeds are naturally inclined to seek approval from their owners and are eager to learn, while others may have a more independent streak and prefer to do things on their own terms.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed needs can differ. High-energy breeds are constantly eager for the next adventure and enjoy activities like running, jumping and playing for a significant portion of the day. Conversely, low-energy breeds are more inclined to spend their time peacefully lounging around and snoozing, resembling couch potatoes.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Medium

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The level of mental stimulation required for a breed to remain happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs, with roles that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other qualities, need adequate mental exercise. Without proper mental stimulation they may create their own activities to keep their minds busy and these activities may not align with your preferences.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Chestnut	070
Mahogany	128
Red	140

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
White Markings	014

About The Breed

The Irish setter is a spirited hunting dog known for its elegance, speed, and vibrant red fur. It has gained a reputation as an excellent family pet, being affectionate with family members and a joyful playmate for children, always ready to fetch tennis balls. Supporters of the breed often describe the Irish setter as the most exquisite among all dog breeds. Its stature is over two feet tall boasting a strong yet graceful body structure. Notably, the Irish setter is renowned for its stunning mahogany or chestnut coat. With its long lean legs and powerful hindquarters this breed deserves recognition as one of the fastest among sporting dogs. For more than two centuries the lovable nature of Irish Setters has captivated both hunters and pet owners. These outgoing dogs are social butterflies always seeking new friendships. While they possess a playful and mischievous spirit they are also highly trainable and eager to please with consistent and positive guidance. Many regard them as bold and reliable hunting companions possessing a carefree attitude towards their tasks.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A IRISH SETTER

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Irish Setter: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Irish Setters are known to be healthy dogs, and reputable breeders take measures to screen their breeding stock for common health issues including hip dysplasia and eye disorders. However, it is worth noting that like other large breeds with deep chests Irish Setters are susceptible to a potentially serious condition called bloat, which involves a rapid and dangerous swelling of the abdomen. It is advisable for owners to educate themselves about the symptoms of bloat and be prepared to take immediate action if it occurs. Additionally, regular ear checks for signs of infection and frequent brushing of the teeth using dog-specific toothpaste are essential routines for maintaining an Irish setter’s well-being. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Hip Evaluation Thyroid Evaluation Progressive Retinal Atrophy (Irish Setter) (PRA-rcd1) - DNA Test

Grooming

	To maintain the Irish Setter's striking and luscious red coat, regular grooming is necessary. It is recommended to brush the Irish setter’s coat at least twice a week using either a pin brush or a soft bristle brush. Additionally, employing a long-toothed metal dog comb can be beneficial in addressing any beginning tangles or mats. Trimming the nails once a month is also important for their overall well-being. Occasionally, giving your Irish setter a bath with a mild shampoo specifically designed for dogs can help keep their coat and skin clean and in good condition. These grooming sessions present an ideal opportunity to thoroughly inspect your dog's body for any new lumps or skin issues, and to ensure the eyes and ears are healthy and free from problems.

Exercise

	Similar to other Sporting breeds, Irish Setters require ample daily exercise to meet their energy needs. This can be achieved through extended walks and engaging play sessions with their beloved owners, as Irish Setters genuinely thrive on companionship. Moreover, this breed benefits from activities that challenge both their physical and mental capabilities such as participating in various canine sports like obedience, tracking, agility, rally and other enjoyable pursuits that promote a strong bond between dog and owner. By providing regular exercise and mental stimulation, Irish Setters can lead fulfilling and balanced lives.

Training

	The Irish setter is a joyous and affectionate companion who genuinely aims to please. Filled with boundless energy, this breed thrives when provided with a sense of purpose. Consistency in training methods is crucial but it is equally important to ensure that training sessions remain enjoyable and engaging to prevent boredom. Irish Setters respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement and reward-based training approaches while harsh corrections or heavy-handed techniques are unlikely to yield positive results. It is highly recommended to prioritize early socialization and enroll them in puppy training classes to establish a strong foundation. Irish Setters truly shine in various canine sports, including hunting, agility, dock diving, rally, tracking and flyball. Furthermore, due to their sensitive nature they make remarkable therapy and assistance dogs, showcasing their innate ability to provide comfort and aid to others.

Nutrition

	To ensure the well-being of your Irish Setter, it is important to provide them with a high-quality dog food that is suitable for their specific age (puppy, adult, or senior) and activity level. Educate yourself about which human foods are safe for dogs and which ones should be avoided to promote their overall health. It's worth mentioning that Irish Setters are prone to experiencing bloat a sudden and life-threatening abdominal swelling. Therefore, it is crucial for owners to familiarize themselves with the symptoms of bloat and be aware of the appropriate actions to take if it occurs. While the exact causes of bloat are not fully understood experts agree that offering multiple small meals and avoiding vigorous exercise during mealtimes may help reduce the risk of this condition. By providing appropriate nutrition and taking preventive measures you can support the long-term health of your Irish setter.

Historiography

A setter is a specialized type of dog breed developed to locate gamebirds using their highly developed sense of smell. These intelligent canines demonstrate their discovery to hunters by assuming a distinctive posture known as 'setting,' where they lay down on their belly. In earlier times setters collaborated with trained falcons and hunters employing nets to capture game, predating the use of firearms. Presently setters serve as gundogs alongside hunters equipped with rifles.

During the 1800s, Irish huntsmen selectively bred their agile and slender "Red Setters" to possess excellent mobility, enabling them to cover vast expanses of the Emerald Isle's flat open terrain. In contrast the Gordon setter a Scottish relative of the Irish setter exhibits a sturdier build suited for flushing and retrieving game in challenging, rocky environments resulting in a more deliberate movement.

The Irish setter achieved acclaim as a highly energetic yet efficient worker in the field and its captivating appearance and graceful stride have led to numerous victories in dog shows since the sport's inception in the 1870s. Throughout the years, eleven Irish Setters have triumphed as winners of the Sporting Group competition at the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club show. Notably, the most renowned Irish setter however, was a fictional character named "Big Red," depicted in Jim Kjelgaard's beloved 1945 novel. Additionally, President Richard Nixon's Irish Setter King Timahoe received his name in homage to a small Irish town which held significance as the ancestral homeland of the president.