Irish Red and White Setter Dog Breed Information

Group

Sporting

Weight

22-30 kg

Height

56-66 cm

Lifespan

10-14 years

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About the Irish Red and White Setter

Reviewed by:

Dr. Cristina Alice Vulpe

Veterinarian

The Irish Red and White Setter is an athletic and affectionate breed that’s full of energy and has a lot of love to give. It’s renowned for its hunting and tracking abilities but its kind and gentle nature also makes it an ideal family dog.

It’s known for being very affectionate with children and its caring personality means it is also used as a therapy dog.

Although they can be a bit difficult to train, due to their high energy levels, with the right amount of patience and plenty of exercise they make a well-balanced and devoted companion for most families.

In this detailed guide, we’ve laid out all the key facts and information you need to get to know this lovable breed!

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What is the history & origin of the Irish Red and White Setter?

The origins of the Irish Red and White Setter can be traced as far back as the seventeenth century when it was used by Irish hunters to track game birds and indicate their location using its tail so that the birds could be caught.

Its red and white coat meant it was easy for hunters to see it in the fields but with the rising popularity of dog shows there came a desire for an all-red Irish Setter and this, as well as the start of the First World War, almost led to the end of the breed.

The Reverend Noble Huston, from County Down, was responsible for saving the breed along with his cousin, Dr Elliott. They began breeding Irish Red and White Setters and exporting them to other countries in Europe, as well as the United States.

The breed’s history was recorded by the Cuddy family during the twentieth century and in 1944, they formed the Irish Red and White Setter Society in Ireland. This led to the breed being recognized as a separate breed from the Irish Setter.

In 1999, the breed was recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club and in 2009 it gained recognition from the American Kennel Club.

What is an Irish Red and White Setter breed?

The Irish Red and White Setter has a soft and silky coat with a pearl white base and red patches that are the colour of a freshly opened chestnut. Its tail, chest and legs are lightly feathered and it has floppy, triangle-shaped ears and dark brown eyes.

It has a strong and athletic build and is distinguished from the Red Irish Setter by its broader head and heavier body.

Irish Red and White Setters are energetic and friendly dogs that have retained their hunting instincts but have an affectionate nature. Their athletic and agile build makes them ideal for dog sports.

Who is an Irish Red and White Setter best for?

Irish Red and White Setters are high-energy, high-spirited and intensely loyal dogs making them ideal pets for a very active family. Their sweet nature means they’re great around kids and they love to play with them, but they can get a bit rambunctious so it’s always wise to supervise playtimes.

Their high activity levels and intelligence mean they require lots of daily exercise and mental stimulation, so any owner who is thinking of welcoming one of these pooches into their home will need to be able to commit to a couple of long walks or hikes each day.

The breed still excels at the job it was bred to do and they are still used as working dogs by hunters. This means that as well as being great family dogs they’re also the perfect breed for those looking for a talented gun dog.

Irish Red and White Setter Grooming & Shedding

When it comes to grooming this breed is pretty low-maintenance, and their pearly white and red coat only needs to be brushed once a week with a soft brush. They only shed moderately and weekly brushing will prevent them from leaving an excessive amount of dog hair around your home.

They may need to be trimmed now and again to keep them looking neat and tidy, but they don’t need to be bathed often as their coat easily sheds dirt.

Their hanging ears can be prone to ear infections so it’s important to check and clean them regularly. Their claws will need to be trimmed once you can hear them clicking on the floor as they walk.

Do Irish Red and White Setters bark a lot?

The Irish Red and White Setter is very alert and will bark to warn its owner of any strangers approaching their property or any potential dangers. Due to this, they make good guard dogs but they don’t usually bark excessively or for no reason.

If you notice that your dog is barking more than usual it may be a sign that they’re bored and aren’t being properly stimulated.

What is the average weight & height of an Irish Red and White Setter?

The Irish Red and White Setter’s height at the shoulder will usually be between 56 and 66 centimetres. They typically weigh between 22 and 30 kilograms.

Are Irish Red and White Setters easy to train?

Due to the breed’s highly energetic nature, they can be quite tricky to train as they often find it hard to concentrate when they could be running around! This means that training them takes patience and the sessions should be short and involve lots of positive reinforcement.

Early socialization is also key so that they’re comfortable around strangers and other dogs. Enrolling them in puppy training classes can be a good way of achieving this.

How do Irish Red and White Setters behave? A look at their temperament and personality

Irish Red and White Setters are known for their loyal and good-natured temperament, and they’re just as happy spending time with their families as they are running in the fields. They love children and get on well with other animals if they’re properly socialized.

This breed is brimming with energy and needs to be engaged in lots of daily activities such as hiking and playing fetch, and they also make great participants in dog sports like rally, flyball and tracking.

Due to their gentle and affectionate nature, they are also used as therapy dogs and they make a loving addition to any family.

Does the Irish Red and White Setter have any common health issues?

The Irish Red and White Setter is generally a healthy breed but they are prone to certain genetic health problems, such as:

Hip Dysplasia – a condition that causes the hip joint to form abnormally during growth meaning it doesn’t fit snugly into the hip socket. This causes limping and pain, and can lead to arthritis.
Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency – a condition in which the dog’s immune system fails to fight infections meaning the dog constantly suffers from various illnesses.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy – a disease in which the photoreceptors in the dog’s eye gradually deteriorate which can eventually lead to partial or full blindness.

What is the lifespan of an Irish Red and White Setter?

The average life expectancy for this breed is 10 to 14 years, but they can exceed this with the right amount of exercise, medical care and love.

How much does an Irish Red and White Setter need to be fed?

The amount of food your dog requires will vary depending on their age, size and metabolism. You should always feed them high-quality dog food that’s high in nutrients and avoid giving them too many treats or table scraps. It’s always best to consult a vet so that you can formulate an ideal diet plan.

How much can you expect to pay for an Irish Red and White Setter in Australia?

This breed is still quite rare in Australia and prospective owners may need to go on a waiting list for a puppy. The average price for a puppy is around $450.

To make sure you’re buying from a reputable breeder you can get more information on breeders in your area from a national breed club such as the Australian National Kennel Club.

Irish Red and White Setter FAQs

Is an Irish Red and White Setter ideal for a first-time dog owner?

The Irish Red and White Setter can be a good pet for a first-time owner as long as they can commit to at least two vigorous walks a day, and are willing to be patient with them during training.

Do Irish Red and White Setters suffer from separation anxiety?

Irish Red and White Setters develop very close bonds with their owners and love being around people. This means that they are prone to separation anxiety and don’t react well to being left alone for long periods.

They do best in households where they will usually have company, and aren’t suitable for owners who will have to leave them home alone frequently.

Are Irish Red and White Setter hypoallergenic dogs?

Irish Red and White Setters are not hypoallergenic dogs as they shed moderately meaning they will leave some fur and dander around the house. They’re not a good choice of pet for those who suffer from dog allergies.