IRISH SETTER

Temperament: Active, Outgoing, Sweet-Natured

AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 77 of 197

Height: 27 inches (male), 25 inches (female)

Weight: 70 pounds (male), 60 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

Group: Sporting Group

ABOUT THE IRISH SETTER

Irish Setters originated as a gundogs in their native Ireland, and the dog breed‘s popularity soon spread, thanks to the beauty of their rich mahogany coat and their enthusiasm as bird dogs.

Irish Setters come in two types: show and field dogs. Irish Setter show dogs are heavier and larger than field dogs, with a heavier, thicker coat. Both types meet the breed standard — a written description of how a breed should look and act.

The Irish Setter has been loved by movie stars, presidents, and ordinary people who admire him for his joyful spirit. He’s a wonderful companion who will keep you fit and make you laugh throughout your life.

PERSONALITY

The Irish Setter is fun-loving, playful, and affectionate, always ready for a rollicking good time.

Irish Setters are outgoing and love people. They aren’t really guard dogs, although they’ve been known to step in and protect their people as needed. They are, however, excellent watchdogs and will bark to let you know of visitors or intruders.

NUTRITION

The Irish Setter should be fed a high-quality dog food appropriate for the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior) and activity level. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. The breed can experience bloat, a sudden and life-threatening swelling of the abdomen, and owners should educate themselves about its symptoms and what to do should bloat occur. The causes of bloat aren’t fully understood, but experts agree that multiple, small meals and preventing vigorous exercise around mealtimes may help reduce the risk of bloating.

HEALTH

Irish Setters are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they’re prone to certain health conditions. Not all Irish Setters will get any or all of these diseases, but it’s important to be aware of them if you’re considering this breed.

Hip Dysplasia

Osteochondrosis Dissecans

Hypothyroidism

Canine Leukocyte

Epilepsy

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy

Gastric Torsion

Panosteitis

CARE

The best home for an Irish Setter is one with a large fenced yard or acreage. This breed needs room to run.

Irish Setters need at least an hour of exercise daily. This can be done in a variety of different ways, but one of the best ways is to allow the Irish Setter to run. He’s a great jogging companion and will also enjoy running alongside a bicycle. Long walks, playing fetch, swimming, and of course hunting are other excellent ways to exercise your Irish Setter.

GROOMING

The Irish Setter’s stunning rich-red coat requires moderate grooming to look its best. Irish should be brushed at least twice a week with a pin brush or a soft bristle brush; a long-toothed metal dog comb can also be used to help work out any tangles or mats that may be starting to form. The nails should be trimmed once a month. An occasional bath with a gentle shampoo meant for dogs will help to keep the coat and skin clean and healthy. Grooming sessions are a good time to check the dog all over for any new lumps or skin problems, and to check that the eyes and ears are healthy and trouble free.

Source: dogtime, akc.