Variety:
Irish Setter
Country of origin:
Ireland
Destination:
Domestic dog
Colours:
Reddish red, maroon, chestnut
Character
Agile, active, energetic, cheerful, affectionate, affectionate, independent.
Height:
63-69 cm
Weight:
26-33 kg
Longevity:
12-13 years
Other names:
Red Setter, Irish Setter
Hypoallergenic:
No
Litter size:
7-8 puppies
The Irish Setter is sometimes called the Red Spaniel – the resemblance to this breed is obvious, and the distinctive feature of the Irish Setter is undoubtedly its mahogany-coloured coat. Irish Setters are very friendly dogs who love to spend time around people. However, due to their strong hunting instinct, this breed does not always get along well with cats and other animals smaller than themselves. If you plan to have more pets, it is best to get your dog used to them from a young age. The Irish Setter requires quite a lot of physical activity, so this breed is only suitable for active people.
History of the breed
Irish Setters were bred around the 18th century. The breed is said to have been bred from a cross between Spaniels, Scottish Setters and Spanish Pointers, and was originally called the Modder Rhu, which translates from the Gaelic as „red dog“. These dogs were very enthusiastic and fast dogs that were of great service to hunters. One of the first breeders of Irish Setters was Maurice O’Connor, who in 1779 rented out farmhouses to train these dogs. The first Irish Setters were chestnut with white markings and some had a black muzzle, but over time the black colour of the Irish Setter disappeared completely. Irish breeders sought to develop a breed of dog that could search for game not only in the grasslands but also in dense scrub and marshland. In the 19th century, white Irish Setters with brown spots were practically extinct, but it was not until the 1920s that these colours were revived. In 1962 the Irish Setter became a star – in 1962, „Disney“ made a film starring the Irish Setter. Later on, these dogs often became the faces (sorry, snouts) of commercials.
The Irish Setter: appearance
Ideal height of males at the withers – 68,5 cm, females – 63,5 cm. Males weigh about 32 kg, females about 27 kg. Irish Setters have a long head, usually twice as long as the distance between the ears. The eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, dark brown (sometimes a slightly lighter shade of brown). Ears are at or below eye level, long and close-set. Nose may be black or chocolate, lip edge almost square, bite scissor-like. The coat is medium-long, straight, mahogany or white with brown spots. Black impurities are not allowed. On the head and on the forelegs the coat is shorter than on the rest of the body.
The Irish Setter: character
Irish Setters love the company of children and are always enthusiastic but also cautious when playing with them. This breed is very attached to its family and values every member of it. The Irish Setter does not miss the opportunity to get to know other dogs and does not usually show signs of dominance. If an Irish Setter gets bored, they may bark indiscriminately (especially if left alone in the house). Irish Setters are pets that require a lot of attention – it is important that they are given enough interaction and sufficient physical and mental activity. Sometimes problems arise when owners don’t exercise the dog’s mind –15 minutes of mental activity is equivalent to about 3 hours of outdoor exercise! Dogs of this breed remain playful throughout their lives, so owners need to take care