All about Irish Red and White Setter dog breed

All You Need to Know About the Irish Red and White Setter Breed

The average weight for an adult Irish Red and White Setter is between 50 to 70 pounds.

• Males typically weigh more, ranging from 55 to 70 pounds.
• Females are generally lighter, with a healthy weight for Irish Red and White Setter females falling between 50 to 60 pounds.

Wondering about the Irish Red and White Setter height? You've come to the right place for details on this beautiful breed's size!

• Males: Generally, male Irish Red and White Setters tend to be on the taller end of the spectrum, often falling between 24.5 to 26 inches.
• Females: Females are usually slightly smaller, with an average height of 22.5 to 24.5 inches.

The Irish Red and White Setter colors are primarily white with solid red patches. This classic combination is the only color pattern AKC recognized Irish Red and White Setter colors by major kennel clubs. The red can range in shade from a lighter golden red to a deeper mahogany, but it must be a true red, not orange or liver. While you might encounter discussions about rare coat types or exotic Irish Red and White Setter variations like solid red or even variations with black, these are not standard for the breed and are not accepted for show or registration by the AKC or other major kennel clubs for the Irish Red and White Setter. Breeders focus on maintaining the distinct red and white markings that define the breed. Be wary of listings for puppies advertised with non-standard colors, as these are not representative of the true Irish Red and White Setter breed standard.

The Irish Red and White Setter personality is known for being friendly, loyal, and highly sociable. These dogs are affectionate and form strong bonds with their families, thriving on companionship. Their temperament of Irish Red and White Setter makes them generally good with children, especially when raised together and supervised, showing a patient and playful nature. They typically get along well with other pets, particularly if socialized from a young age. While adaptable, their energy levels and need for mental stimulation mean they are not ideally suited for apartment living. They require a home with a yard or regular access to open spaces for exercise. Expect a dog that is intelligent, eager to please, and generally good-natured, making them wonderful family companions for active households.

The Irish Red and White Setter temperament is generally described as friendly, outgoing, and affectionate, making them excellent companion dogs. They are highly sociable and thrive on human interaction, forming strong bonds of loyalty with their families. This breed is known for its enthusiastic and playful nature, often retaining a puppy-like demeanor well into adulthood.While generally good-natured, their high energy levels and need for space mean they are not ideally suited for apartment living. They thrive in homes with a yard and active owners who can provide ample exercise and mental stimulation.Irish Red and White Setters typically display excellent behavior with children, being gentle and patient, though their boisterous play can sometimes be overwhelming for very young toddlers. They are generally good with other pets, especially if raised alongside them, but early socialization is crucial to ensure harmonious relationships.They are intelligent dogs, but can exhibit a touch of stubbornness, requiring consistent and positive reinforcement training. They are also quite sensitive and respond best to gentle guidance rather than harsh corrections. Their desire to please and their affectionate nature usually make training a rewarding experience for those who understand their need for a patient and encouraging approach. Potential owners should be prepared for a devoted, energetic, and loving canine companion.

Irish Red and White Setter Care: Daily Maintenance & Health TipsIrish Red and White Setter care is generally straightforward, making them a wonderful companion. They possess a beautiful, medium-length coat requiring regular, but not excessive, grooming. Expect to brush your Irish Red and White Setter a few times a week to prevent mats and reduce shedding. Occasional bathing is also necessary to keep their coat healthy and clean.Despite their athletic build, exercise limitations for this breed are moderate. They are not a low-energy dog breed, but neither are they hyperactive. Daily walks and opportunities to run in a secure area are essential for their physical and mental well-being. A good 45-60 minutes of activity per day, split into two sessions, is a good guideline.Dietary considerations for the Irish Red and White Setter are typical for a medium-to-large breed. A high-quality dog food appropriate for their life stage (puppy, adult, senior) is crucial. Monitor their food intake and maintain a healthy weight to prevent issues. Weight management is important as obesity can lead to various health problems.Unlike some breeds, the Irish Red and White Setter does not have significant wrinkles, so wrinkle cleaning is not a concern. Their ears, however, are long and pendulous, making ear cleaning important to prevent infections. Check and clean their ears weekly, especially after swimming.It's vital to note that the Irish Red and White Setter is *not* a brachycephalic breed and therefore does not have the associated climate sensitivity or breathing difficulties. They generally tolerate various climates well, but like all dogs, require shade and fresh water in hot weather.Common health concerns for the Irish Red and White Setter include hip and elbow dysplasia, certain eye conditions, and hypothyroidism. Regular veterinary check-ups are paramount for early detection and treatment. Skin issues are uncommon with proper grooming, but always watch for any irritation or changes. Dental care is also crucial; regular brushing and professional cleanings will help prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Knowing how to care for a Irish Red and White Setter involves proactive health management and a loving environment.

The Irish Red and White Setter activity level is generally moderate to high. These elegant dogs possess a good balance of energy, making them suitable for active families. They are not as intensely driven as some working breeds, but still require consistent mental and physical stimulation.How active are Irish Red and White Setter? They typically exhibit bursts of playful energy followed by periods of calm rest. Daily exercise needs include at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity, such as long walks, runs, or engaging playtime in a securely fenced yard. They thrive on activities like fetch, exploring new scents, and even some light obedience training or agility.It's important to note that, unlike some other breeds, Irish Red and White Setters are NOT brachycephalic; their well-proportioned snouts allow for efficient breathing during exercise. This means they generally tolerate warmer weather better than brachycephalic breeds, though common sense precautions against overheating should always be taken.While they enjoy their downtime curled up with their families, they are not suited for low-energy households that cannot commit to meeting their exercise requirements. A bored Irish Red and White Setter can resort to undesirable behaviors like excessive barking or destructive chewing. They are an excellent fit for individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities and can provide consistent engagement and training.

I'd rate the "Size" trait of the Irish Red and White Setter a 7. They are a medium-to-large breed, typically standing between 22.5 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weighing 50 to 70 pounds. Their athletic and well-muscled body structure is substantial without being bulky, exuding an air of elegant power. When compared to other companion dogs, they are clearly on the larger end of the spectrum, dwarfing many popular small and even some medium breeds, while still being noticeably smaller than truly giant breeds like Great Danes or Irish Wolfhounds. This size means they are generally not best suited for apartment living unless the apartment is exceptionally spacious and the owners are committed to extensive daily exercise outdoors. Their energetic nature and need for room to stretch out make them far more comfortable in homes with a yard or regular access to open spaces. Travel can be manageable with a larger vehicle, but air travel might involve cargo hold options due to their size. For households with space constraints, they are likely too large, as their active lifestyle and desire to be near their family means they'll take up a significant amount of floor space and require substantial outdoor exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

I would rate the grooming requirements of the Irish Red and White Setter a 6 out of 10.While not as demanding as some long-coated breeds, they are certainly not wash-and-wear. Their medium-length, feathered coat requires regular attention to prevent matting, especially in areas like the ears, legs, and tail. They are moderate to high-shedders, especially during seasonal changes, meaning brushing several times a week is essential to manage loose hair and keep their coat healthy. Their drop ears are prone to infections and need regular cleaning to prevent wax buildup and promote airflow. Nail trims are also a consistent need, like most dogs, and they benefit from occasional bathing to keep their coat clean and free of debris from their active outdoor lifestyle. While generally a healthy breed, their skin should be monitored for any signs of irritation, though they aren't particularly prone to allergies compared to some other breeds. Overall, they are not extremely high-maintenance, but they require consistent, routine grooming that goes beyond basic upkeep and is more frequent than what's needed for many short-coated companion dogs.

I would rate the Irish Red and White Setter's "Exercise Requirements" at a 9. This breed possesses an incredibly high energy level and a strong desire to be active. They are not suited for owners who prefer a couch potato companion, as they require significant daily exercise to remain healthy, both physically and mentally. Their history as gundogs means they thrive on sustained movement and purposeful activity. Long, brisk walks or jogs, at least an hour to an hour and a half daily, are a bare minimum, and ideally, this should be supplemented with off-leash running in a secure area or engaging in dog sports. They excel at activities like agility, flyball, and, of course, field trials, which tap into their natural hunting instincts and require immense stamina and focus. While not brachycephalic, their athletic build and keen intelligence mean they can become destructive or develop behavioral issues if their energy isn't channeled appropriately through structured routines and plenty of opportunities to run and explore. They absolutely do not thrive with minimal activity; rather, they require consistent and challenging exercise to prevent boredom and maintain their cheerful, intelligent disposition.

I'd rate the Irish Red and White Setter's "Watchdog Ability" at a 4 out of 10.While generally alert to their surroundings, their friendly and good-natured temperament means they are more likely to greet a stranger with a wagging tail than a threatening bark. They will certainly notice unusual sounds or the presence of unfamiliar people and are prone to barking to alert their owners, making them good for early *warnings* in a home environment. However, their territorial instincts are not particularly strong, and they lack the inherent protective drive or willingness to physically deter an intruder. They are more of a passive companion who will let you know someone is there, rather than a breed capable of providing a meaningful deterrent or actively defending the household. They are excellent at being an "alarm bell," but not much more.

Rating: 8/10The Irish Red and White Setter generally scores very high on the "Good with Other Dogs" trait. They are typically known for their amiable and gentle dispositions, extending naturally to their interactions with other canines. They are usually quite adaptable and tolerant, showing little to no inherent aggression or dominance towards unfamiliar dogs. This breed often thrives in canine company, enjoying playful interactions and showing a remarkable ability to get along with dogs of various sizes and energy levels, from boisterous puppies to more sedate seniors. While early socialization is always beneficial for any dog, the Irish Red and White Setter tends to be inherently sociable and forgiving, making careful introductions often less of a struggle than with some other breeds. They are excellent candidates for multi-dog households and often flourish when they have canine companions to share their lives with. They are more likely to seek out play and companionship than to display any form of conflict, making them a joy to introduce into dog parks or other social canine settings.

Rating: 8The Irish Red and White Setter is a highly energetic breed, deserving a rating of 8. These dogs are natural athletes, bred for extensive work in the field, and their typical activity level reflects this heritage. They possess impressive endurance, capable of long hours of active outdoor pursuits. Their playfulness is pronounced, always eager for a game of fetch or a romp in the park. This breed has a significant need for physical stimulation; a lack of adequate exercise can lead to boredom and potentially destructive behaviors. They excel in outdoor and athletic activities such as hiking, running, dog sports like agility, and, of course, their intended purpose of hunting. Compared to many other companion dogs, they are decidedly naturally active and require a committed owner who can meet their substantial exercise needs. It's important to note that the Irish Red and White Setter is NOT a brachycephalic breed; it possesses a long, well-defined muzzle, which significantly contributes to its excellent stamina and exercise tolerance, allowing for efficient breathing during strenuous activity. This anatomical feature is crucial to their high energy and ability to maintain activity over long periods.

I would rate the "Training Requirements" of the Irish Red and White Setter at a 7.While intelligent and eager to please their owners, Irish Red and White Setters can also possess a strong independent streak and a high prey drive, which can translate into moments of stubbornness and a shorter attention span, especially in stimulating environments. Their playful and energetic nature means they can be easily distracted if training isn't engaging and consistent. They are highly responsive to positive reinforcement and thrive on praise and rewards, but a lack of consistency or a perceived weakness in leadership will be readily exploited. They require a structured routine and clear, consistent commands to understand expectations. This breed is generally not considered beginner-friendly, as their training requires a patient, dedicated owner who understands breed-specific traits and can provide firm yet gentle guidance. Experienced handling is beneficial to navigate their occasional stubbornness and to channel their energy and intelligence effectively into a well-behaved companion.

The Irish Red and White Setter rates a 9 for "Playful." This breed is a naturally spirited and enthusiastic companion, consistently demonstrating a strong love for games and interaction. Their typical activity level is high, and they thrive on engaging playtime, whether it's a vigorous game of fetch, a stimulating scent game, or simply a boisterous romp in the yard. They are highly responsive to toys and readily initiate play, often bringing toys to their owners as an invitation. While not excessively attention-seeking in a needy way, they certainly enjoy being the focus of a fun activity and their overall enthusiasm in daily life is palpable. Compared to some more laid-back companion breeds, the Irish Red and White Setter is undeniably more energetic and fun-loving, retaining a puppy-like exuberance well into adulthood.

I would rate the Affectionate trait of the Irish Red and White Setter a solid 9 out of 10.This breed is remarkably loving and people-oriented. They possess a deep desire for human companionship and thrive on being part of the family's daily activities, often following their loved ones from room to room. Physical closeness is a hallmark of their affection; they are known for their willingness to cuddle, lean into their owners, and even attempt lap-sitting, despite their size. Their loyalty is unwavering, and they are highly sensitive to their owner's emotions, often offering comfort when they sense distress. The Irish Red and White Setter genuinely thrives on affection and reciprocal attention, making them far from independent compared to many other companion breeds. They truly blossom when they feel cherished and integrated into the heart of the home.

I would rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Irish Red and White Setter a 7 out of 10.This breed is generally known for its agreeable and friendly nature, which extends to other pets, especially other dogs. They were traditionally hunted in packs, fostering a natural sociability with their own kind. With proper early socialization, they typically integrate well into multi-dog households and enjoy the company of canine companions.However, the "setter" in their name is a clue to their moderate prey drive. While not as intense as some terriers or sighthounds, they do possess an instinct to pursue small, fast-moving animals. This means that while they can often coexist peacefully with cats or smaller animals, especially if raised with them from a young age, careful introductions, training, and ongoing supervision are crucial. A cat running across a room might trigger that chase instinct, so a calm and respectful relationship isn't always guaranteed without effort. Resource guarding is not a prominent trait in the breed, but like any dog, it can develop if not addressed.Therefore, while they are naturally quite sociable and adaptable, coexisting peacefully with other pets, particularly cats, often requires a dedicated owner who prioritizes early socialization, consistent training (especially recall and "leave it"), and responsible supervision to manage their natural instincts and ensure a harmonious household. They are not a breed that can simply be thrown into a multi-species environment without guidance.

The Irish Red and White Setter rates an impressive 8/10 for "Good with Children." This breed generally possesses a naturally gentle, affectionate, and patient temperament, making them very suitable for families with kids. They are typically playful and enjoy interacting with children, often displaying a tolerant nature towards the usual noise and handling that comes with a busy household. While their energetic nature means they'll enjoy romping and playing with older, more robust children, their inherent kindness and good disposition also make them generally reliable companions for younger ones. Consistent positive reinforcement training and early socialization are beneficial to ensure they thrive in any family setting, but their fundamental nature is one of good-will and amiability towards their human pack, including its youngest members.

I would rate the "Good with Strangers" trait of the Irish Red and White Setter a 9 out of 10.This breed is generally known for its remarkably friendly and outgoing nature, extending readily to unfamiliar adults. They are typically very sociable and welcoming, approaching new people with wagging tails and an eagerness to interact rather than shyness or suspicion. Their socialization tendencies are strong; they enjoy being part of family activities and are usually very comfortable with guests in the home or in public settings. They are not typically prone to excessive barking or guarding behavior towards strangers, instead, they are more likely to seek attention and affection. While early socialization is beneficial for any dog to build confidence, the Irish Red and White Setter is naturally predisposed to being an affable and adaptable companion in guest-filled environments, requiring minimal specific training to be comfortable with strangers.

I would rate the Irish Red and White Setter's "Winter" tolerance at a solid 7. This breed possesses a dense, medium-length double coat that provides good insulation against cold weather. Their athletic build and moderate size contribute to efficient heat generation during activity, and they are not prone to brachycephalic breathing issues that can worsen in cold air. While they don't have excessive body fat, their active nature and substantial coat are generally sufficient for most winter conditions. They are energetic dogs that thrive on outdoor activity and can safely enjoy extended periods outside in moderately cold climates without significant risk of hypothermia, as long as they are active and not left unsupervised in extreme temperatures for too long. Compared to some short-haired or toy breeds, the Irish Red and White Setter does not typically require special care during winter months beyond what would be considered good practice for any companion dog – ensuring they have a warm, dry place to rest, proper nutrition, and avoiding prolonged exposure in very harsh conditions. They will, however, appreciate and benefit from continued opportunities for vigorous exercise even when the temperature drops.

I would rate the "Summer" tolerance of the Irish Red and White Setter at a 7. While not brachycephalic and generally possessing good athleticism, their thick, medium-length coat can lead to overheating if not managed properly. They are an active breed and require regular exercise, even in warmer weather, but owners must be mindful of the time of day and intensity. Unlike some companion dogs with very short coats or those bred for extreme climates, the Irish Red and White Setter will need more attention during summer months. They are at a moderate risk of heatstroke if overexerted or left in direct sun without access to water and shade. While not typically requiring constant climate control in a well-ventilated home, they will benefit from air conditioning or fans during peak heat and will need their outdoor activity significantly adjusted to cooler parts of the day. Special care includes ensuring constant access to fresh water, avoiding strenuous exercise during midday, seeking shade, and considering cooling aids like damp towels or wading pools.

I would rate the Irish Red and White Setter's "Healthiness" trait as an 8 out of 10.This breed is generally considered robust and healthy, especially when compared to some other companion dog breeds that have more exaggerated features leading to inherent health issues. Their life expectancy is respectable, typically ranging from 11 to 15 years, which speaks to their overall good health. They don't commonly suffer from the severe breathing difficulties seen in brachycephalic breeds or the widespread, debilitating joint problems that plague some very large or giant breeds.However, like many purebred dogs, they do have some genetic predispositions that responsible breeders actively screen for. These include hip and elbow dysplasia (though generally not to the same severe degree as some other breeds), certain eye conditions like Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), and a bleeding disorder called Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency (CLAD). While these can occur, ethical breeding practices and genetic testing have significantly reduced their prevalence. They are not considered high-maintenance in terms of health; rather, they are generally healthy dogs that benefit from regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine veterinary care, much like any well-cared-for canine. Their health is more a matter of managing potential genetic risks through responsible breeding rather than dealing with widespread, inherent breed-specific weaknesses.

I'd rate the "Protective" trait of the Irish Red and White Setter a 3 out of 10.While they are incredibly loyal to their families and possess a good degree of alertness, making them aware of their surroundings, their protective instincts don't typically translate into meaningful guarding or protective behaviors. They are generally friendly and outgoing, even with strangers, once they've determined there's no immediate threat. Their territorial instincts are mild, usually manifesting as a bark to alert you to someone's presence rather than an aggressive standoff. They are far more of a companion dog, excelling in roles that involve family interaction, hunting, and companionship. While they might bark at an approaching stranger, they are highly unlikely to act as a guard dog or offer substantial physical protection in a household setting, making them unsuitable for such a role. Their gentle and eager-to-please nature overrides any strong inclination towards protective aggression.

I would rate the "Life Span" trait of the Irish Red and White Setter an 8 out of 10.This breed is generally considered to be long-lived compared to many other companion dogs, with an average life expectancy typically ranging from 12 to 15 years, and sometimes even longer. While they can be prone to certain genetic health issues like Canine Leucocyte Adhesion Deficiency (CLAD) and von Willebrand's Disease (vWD), responsible breeding practices through health testing have significantly reduced the prevalence of these serious conditions within the breed. Hip and elbow dysplasia are also considerations, but again, good breeders screen for these. With proper nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care, Irish Red and White Setters tend to enjoy a robust and lengthy life, showcasing excellent longevity for a medium-large breed.