Irish setter is native breed of Ireland and is renowned throughout the world because of its rich mahogany color luxurious coat. They are amicable, notorious and enthusiastic bird dogs. This bold dog also has the potential to outperform in canine sports. The dog is highly likeable for its gundog skills, athleticism and grace. The dog is always ready to rock and roll and is inquisitive for fun in life. The dog enjoys thrill in life, going new places and accomplishing new challenges. Although the dog loves everyone, not every dog lover is suitable for this breed. You need to have an apartment with fenced yard and adopt an active lifestyle so that the breed can thrive happily. This breed has two varieties- show dog and field dog. Show dog should have massive built up than field dog. They are intelligent but also mischievous and willful minded. It is important to be consistent in training them. This breed of dog has been admired by many celebrities and presidents.
Origin
It is an 18th century dog and is native to Ireland. Earlier name of this breed was red dog because of its coat’s color. It is believed that the dog is a result of combining of English Setters, spaniels, pointers, and Gordon Setters. This breed has been gaining huge popularity among the masses because of its attractive looks and boisterous nature. They do wonders in show rings and in fields. This breed has also got featured in movies and books.
Irish Setter Facts And Characteristics
- The breed belongs to Ireland and is a bird dog
- This breed is prone to suffer from separation anxiety as it gets deeply attached to owner
- They are not suitable for apartment living because they are highly energetic and need large fenced yard to play, run and wander
- Obedience training is must for the dog in order to manage their mischievous and stubborn nature
- They are fond of children and do well with any size children
- They are animal friendly dogs but non canine animals are always under threat in their company
- They shed moderately. It is recommended to groom their coats daily to avoid tangled hairs
- They take time to get mature. You will have a puppy-like adult dog
- They are not easy to train. Being inquisitive in nature, they lose their focus easily
- Lifespan of this breed is 12 – 15 years
- They are 58–67 cm tall
- They weigh around 27–32 kg
- Dogs come in mahogany, chestnut and red colors
- It is not a hypoallergenic breed
- Average price of this breed is $800 - $1000 USD
Appearance
Irish setter is one of the most beautiful dog’s breed. Their silky, glossy flowing hair will definitely make you fall in love with them at first sight. They have long face with chiseled facial bones. Their muzzle is long and end in dark colored nose. The dog has a sloppy topline. Their teeth should have leveled bite. Eyes of the dog should be almond-shaped brown in color. Their ears are of pendant shape and profusely covered with long hair. The dog should be light on its feet.
Size and Weight
Ideal height of the male breed should be 58–67 cm and that of female breed should be 55–62 cm. Male should weigh around 27–32 kg and female should be 24–29 kg.
Coat and Color
The dog has a majestic coat which other dog breeds lack. Length of the hair is shorter on head and forelegs and longer on body. Feathering can be found on their body parts like thighs, tail, belly and chest. Their coat is glossy and smooth like velvet. Dogs come in mahogany, chestnut and red colors. Some dogs may have small amount of white on their body.
Temperament
- Personality - Irish setters are full of life. They are happy dogs that have only one motto in life- to enjoy to the fullest. They are proficient bird dog and excel in tracking, pointing and retrieving games that involve birds. The dog forms deep bond with its owner and wants to be included in every family activity. They are good with children and other pet animals of home. The dogs are prone to jumping and leaping on people and even new guest. They love everyone and therefore should not be trusted as guard dog. They even greet strangers warm heartedly.
- Behavior - They are good mannered breed with no signs of human aggression. But if you leave them alone and stop giving time they will tend to get destructive in nature just to get your attention. They are prone to suffer from separation anxiety so unless you are ready to give your time to this breed, do not buy it. The breed makes excellent watch dog. Lack of exercise to them will make them bark excessively. The dog loves belly rub and caressing of its hair.
- Activities requirement - They are brimming with high energy. It is important to provide vigorous exercise to the breed so that they can maintain their even temperament. The dog should be given opportunity to run and romp. They are country dogs and limiting their movement is sheer cruelty. You can also go on adventurous tour with this breed.
- Trainability - The dog is not easy to train. Puppy tends to be over notorious and they may not always listen to you. They also have independent mindset and love to do things in their own way. You need to persistent in training them and the result will come gradually. Treats, plays and appreciation act as catalyst in training them.
Feeding
They are active breed and require diet rich in proteins. In order to give them balanced diet, their diet should contain vegetables as well as meat. Avoid giving processed food to them.
Lifespan
The dog can live up to 12 – 15 years.
Health issues
It is not a hypoallergenic breed. Breed health issues may include- arthritis, bloat, epilepsy, hip dysplasia, Von Willebrand disease, and progressive retinal atrophy.
Grooming
This breed sheds moderately. It is necessary to brush its coat daily in order to have debris and mats free coat. Regular brushing will also ensure detangled hairs. Bathe it only when necessary. Brushing its teeth, cleaning its ears and trimming its nails should also be included in its grooming regime.
Habitat
The dogs thrive in countryside, farm or house with yards. They can survive in any climate.
Pet Names
- Cena
- Batishta
- Kane
- Zoozoo
- Ruby
Things To Consider Before Buying
Pros
- They are happy dogs that form great companions to people
- The dog is social and gets along with other house pets pretty well
- It is a suitable breed for kids. They love to be their playmate and four legged friend
- The dog has a silky and soft coat which makes it breathtaking beautiful.
Cons
- It doesn’t make good guard dog because they are sweet with everybody
- They are difficult to train
- It is not a suitable breed for inactive owners and owners who live in cozy apartment
- It is not hypoallergenic.
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