Once one of the most popular breeds in America, the Irish Setter is probably the most recognizable of the setters. The term “setter” refers to the crouching position these dogs used to adopt upon finding game. It allowed hunters to walk up and capture the game by throwing a net over both bird and dog. Later, when firearms were introduced, the Irish flourished as a gun dog that pointed, flushed and hunted in an upright stance.

History

While the exact history of the Irish Setter is somewhat obscure, most experts agree the breed arose in the 18^th century as a mix of the Irish Water Spaniel, Irish Terrier, English Setter, Spaniel, Pointer and Gordon Setter. Originally skewbald with red and white markings, the solid red color became predominant in the 19^th century when it was considered synonymous with quality and superior ability. In 1812 the Earl of Enniskillen declared he would have nothing but Irish Red Setters (as they were then known) in his kennel.

The Irish Setter’s marked good looks are largely inherited from a dog named Champion Palmerston. Born in 1862, Palmerston was a slender pup with an elongated head. Believing him to be too refined for the field, his owner ordered that he be destroyed. Luckily, his life was spared by a breeder who used him as a show dog. Ironically, it was the same physical features that nearly cost this dog his life that made him a sensation in the show ring. Those features are now a part of the breed standard.

Temperament

Described by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a “rollicking breed”, Irish Setters have energy to burn. Rigorous daily exercise is required. They do well when permitted to romp off leash, but because they will follow their noses wherever a scent may lead, proper training and fencing are imperative.

Puppies are described as “clownish”, and retain their playful nature well into adulthood. The Irish Setter’s even temper and lack of aggression make it a rather poor guard dog, but an excellent family companion. Unfortunately, their size and rambunctiousness may make them unsuitable around small children.

Size

Tall but not bulky Irish Setters are a sizeable breed. Males weigh in at 70 pounds and stand 27 inches at the withers. Females weigh about 60 pounds and are 25 inches tall at the withers. As with other large and energetic breeds it is not recommended to keep and Irish in an apartment. Nor do they fair well in dog runs or kennels.

Maintenance

A fastidious breed, Irish Setters house-train easily, but their rich glossy coats need regular attention. Brushing is recommended 2-3 times per week to avoid matting, and some trimming is required. In terms of health, Irish Setters can suffer from Progressive Retinal Atrophy (which may lead to blindness), hip dysplasia and Gastric Torsion (a potentially fatal twisting of the stomach).

With their distinctive mahogany coats and long elegant appearance Irish Setters are super stars in the show ring. Their versatility and hunting ability make them excellent sporting dogs as well. As family pets, however, they are most suitable for active owners with older children.