Introduction

The Irish Setter, also known as the Red Dog from Erin, the Red Dog, the Irish Red Setter, the Modder Rhu (Gaelic), the Red Spaniel or simply the Red Setter, is an impressive breed best known for its hunting skills, flashy style, powerful movement and clownish personality. The Irish Setter has been described as being perhaps the most glamorous and unforgettable of all modern dog breeds. It was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1878, as part of the Sporting Group. The Irish Setter Club of America was founded in 1891 and is one of the oldest breed clubs in the country.

The average male Irish Setter stands about 27 inches at the shoulder and weighs about 70 pounds. Females typically are 25 inches tall and approximately 60 pounds. There is no size requirement or disqualification in the American breed standard. The Irish Setter’s coat is short and fine on head and forelegs and moderately long and flat elsewhere. There should be long, silky feathering on the ears, back of the legs, under the belly and brisket and on the tail, preferably with no sign of waviness or curl. The coat should be mahogany or a rich chestnut red, with no black. A small amount of white on chest, throat or toes is not penalized, but not preferred.

Irish Setter - History and Health

The origin of the Irish Setter dates back to the early 1700s in Ireland. By the early 1800s, the breed was firmly established not only in its homeland but throughout the British Isles. While its precise ancestry is the subject of debate, some speculate that the Irish Setter descends from crosses of Irish Water Spaniels and Irish Terriers. According to other experts, it is more likely that the breed’s progenitors were English Setters crossed with

Irish Setter - Temperament & Personality

Irish Setters were developed to be bird dogs, tracking, pointing and retrieving game birds in the field. Today, they are rarely used in the field, but maintain their high energy and stamina in modern life. Irish Setters are loyal family dogs for those with active lifestyles. They get along well with children, love people and get along well with other household pets. They will want to be a part of any and every family activity.

Irish Setter - Appearance & Grooming

The Irish Setter has a reputation for being one of the most beautiful dog breeds in the world. Their distinctive silky, feathered red coat coupled with their aristocratic air makes them head-turners whether walking through the neighborhood or circling the show ring. Irish Setters are slightly longer than they are tall, and the topline should incline slowly downward from shoulder to tail. The head is long and chiseled, with well defined occiput and stop. The

Irish Setter - Pictures

The saying goes, “a picture is worth a thousand words”. Check out the many different Irish Setter Pictures and Irish Setter images. Get an in depth look at the Irish Setter and see the many things that this breed has to offer.