The Irish Setter is a beautiful, athletic sporting dog with a distinctive mahogany or rich chestnut red coat. Known for its outgoing personality and boundless energy, this breed combines beauty with a rollicking personality.
Origin
Ireland
Life Span
12–15 years
Weight
27–32 kg
Height
63.5–68.5 cm
Exercise
very high
Grooming
high
Shedding
moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
The Irish Setter originated in Ireland in the 18th century, developed from a mix of English Setter, spaniel, and pointer stock with occasional Gordon Setter crosses. Originally, these dogs were bred as efficient bird hunting dogs and were primarily red and white in coloration. By the 19th century, solid red Irish Setters became fashionable and eventually dominated the breed standard. They were particularly valued for their excellent hunting abilities in the open fields of Ireland, where their speed, endurance, and keen nose made them exceptional bird dogs. The breed was first recognized by the Irish Kennel Club and later gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century. In the 20th century, while some lines continued to be bred for field work, others were developed for the show ring, leading to slight differences between show and field lines. The Irish Setter reached peak popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, partly due to the book and movie 'Big Red' and President Nixon's Irish Setter named 'King Timahoe.' Today, the breed continues to excel in both the show ring and as a family companion, though fewer are used for their original hunting purpose.
Irish Setter showcasing the breed's elegant stance and flowing coat
Irish Setter running, demonstrating the breed's athletic ability
Irish Setter puppy with its distinctive red coat still developing
Big Red
1962Disney film based on the novel by Jim Kjelgaard about a boy and his Irish Setter.
Irish Red
1976Sequel to Big Red, continuing the story of the Irish Setter.
Irish Setters were one of President Nixon's favorite dog breeds; his Irish Setter 'King Timahoe' lived in the White House.
The breed's stunning red coat takes up to 3 years to fully develop its rich color and texture.
Irish Setters once commonly worked in pairs with hunters, with one dog pointing and the other retrieving.
The famous children's novel 'Big Red' by Jim Kjelgaard features an Irish Setter as its main character.
Despite their elegant appearance, Irish Setters were primarily developed as working gundogs with exceptional endurance.
Purchase Price
700–2500 USD
Monthly Cost
~$120 USD
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