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Irish Red and White Setter

HEIGHT
22-26 inches
WEIGHT
50-75 pounds
LIFE SPAN
11-15 years
Information

The Irish Red and White Setter is intelligent, trainable, and full of energy. It requires daily physical activity and mental engagement to stay balanced. Without proper stimulation, it may become restless or develop undesirable behaviors.

This breed is eager to please and learns quickly when trained with positive reinforcement. Early socialization is important to ensure a confident, friendly adult—especially in multi-pet households or busy environments.

Its silky coat needs regular grooming to prevent tangles, especially around the feathered areas. Though active outdoors, it is calm and affectionate indoors, making it an adaptable family dog.

Quick facts
  • Origin: Ireland

  • Breed Group: Sporting / Gundog

  • Lifespan: 11–15 years

  • Height: 22.5–26 inches

  • Weight: 50–75 pounds

  • Coat Type: Medium-length, silky, feathered

  • Temperament: Friendly, eager, athletic

  • Exercise Needs: High

  • Training Needs: Moderate to high

  • Grooming Needs: Moderate

  • Health Concerns: Hip dysplasia, eye conditions, allergies

Overview

The Irish Red and White Setter is the original of Ireland’s setter breeds, developed centuries ago for bird hunting in open fields. With its eye-catching red patches on a white base coat and graceful build, this breed stands out both in appearance and performance.

Known for its stamina, agility, and friendly demeanor, the Irish Red and White Setter excels in field trials and makes a wonderful companion for active families. It’s sociable, gentle, and highly affectionate, thriving in homes where it can be close to people and involved in daily activity.

Though rarer than its solid red cousin (the Irish Setter), this breed is gaining popularity due to its loyal nature, elegant style, and versatility in both sport and companionship.

What to expect

Owning a dog is not just a privilege; it’s a responsibility. They depend on us for, at minimum, food and shelter, and deserve much more.

Health
A generally healthy breed, but monitor for hip dysplasia and eye disorders. Reputable breeders screen for inherited conditions. Maintain a lean build to support joint health during active years.
Grooming
Brush several times a week to prevent matting in feathered areas (ears, chest, legs). Trim nails, clean ears regularly, and bathe as needed. Coat sheds moderately.
Exercise
Requires daily exercise—long walks, running, retrieving, or field games. Thrives in active homes and enjoys being part of outdoor activities. Not well-suited to sedentary lifestyles.
Training
Smart and biddable. Responds well to gentle, positive training. Early socialization and consistent cues will shape a well-mannered, confident dog.
Nutrition
Feed a balanced, high-quality diet for active medium-large dogs. Adjust portions based on activity level. Monitor weight and consider joint supplements in later years.

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