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Irish Setter

Irish Setter is a large sporting breed from Ireland also known as Red Setter.

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Irish Setter

Breed overview

Irish Setter is a large sporting breed from Ireland also known as Red Setter.

A gundog known for its glamorous red coat, developed in Ireland from spaniels, setters, and possibly pointers.

People looking into Irish Setter usually prepare for Very High exercise needs, High grooming needs, 60–70 lbs • 25–27 in.

Red Setter

History and origin

Irish Setter is tied to originating from Ireland, specifically Irish countryside, with sources often placing its development around 1700 CE.

Irish Setter is described here as placed in the Sporting group and marked as an established breed.

A gundog known for its glamorous red coat, developed in Ireland from spaniels, setters, and possibly pointers.

Browse dog breeds from Ireland Browse more Sporting breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
Sporting
Size
Large
Origin country
Ireland
Region
Irish countryside
Origin year
1700 CE
Weight
60–70 lbs
Height
25–27 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
5 / 5
Trainability
4 / 5
Good with children
5 / 5
Shedding level
4 / 5
Barking tendency
2 / 5
Very High exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 5/5Trainability: 4/5

Coat and classification

Irish Setter is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

LongSilkyFeathered

Irish Setter is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Rich mahogany or chestnut red coat
  • Long, silky, feathered fur
  • Elegant, aristocratic head
  • Tall, graceful build

What this breed is known for

  • A gundog known for its glamorous red coat, developed in Ireland from spaniels, setters, and possibly pointers.
  • They are tall, athletic dogs with a silky mahogany or chestnut coat, long ears, and a lean head.
  • Irish Setters are affectionate, spirited, and sometimes mischievous. They mature slowly, retaining puppy-like enthusiasm for several years.

Health and care notes

Irish Setter is noted here for Very High exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy
  • Epilepsy

Coat details: Long, Silky, Feathered

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Irish Setter come from?

Irish Setter is closely associated with Ireland, especially Irish countryside in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Irish Setter get?

Typical size details for Irish Setter on this page are 60–70 lbs, 25–27 in, 12–15 years.

What is the Irish Setter known for?

A gundog known for its glamorous red coat, developed in Ireland from spaniels, setters, and possibly pointers.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Irish Setter reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.