Irish Red and White Setter
The Irish Red and White Setter is a gun dog native to Ireland, once reduced to very low numbers before dedicated breed enthusiasts helped bring it back. Standing 57–66cm at the shoulder and weighing 25–34kg, this is a sturdily built dog with a warm, outgoing temperament, deeply loyal to its family and generally eager to please during training. However, because it is a large dog with high exercise needs, it is considered suited to intermediate-level owners, particularly those with prior large-breed experience or who are ready to research thoroughly beforehand. Bred as a working gun dog, the breed retains strong exercise needs and does best with owners who can provide plenty of daily activity. With a typical lifespan of 11 to 13 years, this setter can be a devoted companion for many years.
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Irish Red and White Setter key facts
- Care level
- Intermediate
- Lifespan
- 11-13 years
- Size
- Height 57-66cm / Weight 25-34kg
- Diet
- High-quality large-breed dog food. Feed 2-3 smaller meals daily to reduce bloat risk.
- Temperament
- Proud, keen and intelligent. Gentle, friendly and easy to train.
- Exercise
- 60-90 min exercise daily. Ensure plenty of free running time.
- Coat Care
- Feathered coat. Brush 2-3 times weekly.
- Origin
- Ireland
- Notes
- Risk of hip dysplasia and gastric torsion. Lack of exercise causes stress.
About Irish Red and White Setter
An Irish gun dog breed, friendly and trainable, standing 57–66cm and weighing 25–34kg. With an 11–13 year lifespan, they make loyal long-term companions.
7 things to know before welcoming a Irish Red and White Setter
1Daily Exercise Needs
As a former working gun dog breed, the Irish Red and White Setter tends to have high exercise needs. In addition to daily walks, it benefits from regular opportunities to run freely in an open space.
2Watch for Bloat
Large, deep-chested breeds carry a risk of bloat, and feeding guidance recommends 2 to 3 smaller meals a day rather than one large one. Avoiding vigorous exercise right after meals can also help reduce the risk.
3Coat Care and Brushing
The breed's semi-long, slightly wavy coat needs regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting. The feathering around the ears and legs in particular catches easily and needs frequent attention.
4Early Training Matters
This is an intelligent breed that generally responds well to training, but because it grows into a large, strong dog, starting basic commands and socialization while still a puppy is recommended. Patient, consistent handling tends to work best.
5Mind Energy and Alone Time
With an active, energetic temperament, this setter can become stressed if left alone for long stretches or without enough exercise. It's worth considering in advance whether your lifestyle allows for daily activity and time together.
6Choosing a Large-Breed Food
Since adults reach 25–34kg, a high-quality food formulated for large breeds is generally recommended. Adjusting the amount and formula with guidance from a veterinarian as the dog grows is a good approach.
7Prepare Your Living Space
Before bringing home a dog that grows to 57–66cm tall, it's worth checking that your home has enough indoor and outdoor space and that furniture and layout can accommodate a large dog. As this breed is considered suited to more experienced owners, it's a good fit for those with prior large-breed experience or who are ready to research thoroughly beforehand.
Frequently asked questions about Irish Red and White Setter
- Q.Is this breed suitable for first-time owners?
- A.This setter is friendly and generally responsive to training, but as a large breed standing 57–66cm with high exercise needs, it's considered better suited to intermediate-level owners. It's a good match for people with prior large-breed experience or the ability to provide plenty of daily exercise.
- Q.How much exercise does it need?
- A.As a breed originally developed for hunting, the Irish Red and White Setter tends to have high exercise needs. Daily walks plus regular opportunities to run freely in an open space are recommended.
- Q.What is the typical lifespan?
- A.Reference data puts the typical lifespan at 11 to 13 years. Individual dogs vary, but this falls within the normal range for a large breed.
- Q.Does it shed a lot or need heavy grooming?
- A.The semi-long, wavy coat requires regular brushing to stay tangle-free. The feathering around the ears and legs in particular mats easily, so frequent attention in those areas helps.
- Q.Is it good with other pets or young children?
- A.The breed is generally described as friendly and trustworthy, making it approachable as a family dog. That said, given its size and energy level, it's worth supervising interactions with small children or other pets, especially while the dog is still young.
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