Dog breed · Sporting / Gundog

Irish Setter

A flamboyant red gundog that keeps a puppyish outlook for years and needs serious daily exercise.

Large12–15 yearsIrelandNeeds more space

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Breed characteristics

Developed in Ireland in the eighteenth century as a bird dog, later bred for its striking solid red coat.

Tall, racy and elegant, in rich chestnut red with heavy feathering.

Two hours daily of running and field work.

Brush three times weekly to prevent feathering mats, and check ears after wet work.

Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
Check your routine can support the activity described here: Two hours daily of running and field work. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Bloat, Hip dysplasia, Progressive retinal atrophy, Canine leukocyte adhesion deficiency, Epilepsy), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime. Bloat has no screening test: learn its emergency signs and ask about prevention.
Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.

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