Origin
Ireland
Lifespan
11–15 years
Weight
27–32 kg
Height
58–67 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Red · Chestnut · Mahogany
Irish Setter
About This Breed
The Irish Setter is a setter type of gundog, and is one of the most glamorous of dogs. The Irish Setter has a rich, chestnut red coat that flows with silkiness and grace. They are known for their playful, mischievous personality and high energy. Irish Setters are affectionate, loving dogs that get along well with children and other pets. They require a lot of daily exercise and are not suitable for apartment living. They are great family dogs for active households.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Irish Setter
Origin
| Origin | Ireland |
| Group | Sporting |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 27–32 kg |
| Lifespan | 11–15 years |
| Height | 58–67 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Red · Chestnut · Mahogany |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Playful · Energetic · Affectionate · Lively · Independent |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and prevent tangles.
Some shedding is expected, and it may change with the season.
Living together
A familiar routine can help it settle in.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Often gets along with other pets. Introduce them gradually rather than assuming they will be friends.
Training and activities
May learn quickly. Keep sessions varied and practice calmly around distractions.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
The Irish Setter’s glossy red coat might be what initially draws the eye, but it’s the breed’s famously sweet temper, playful nature, and athleticism that’s long made them popular family pets and hunting companions. That said, they can be rambunctious and require a lot of exercise, even into adulthood. Considering their size (60-70 pounds with long legs), they’re not a good fit for apartment living. And potential pet parents need to be prepared to brush that striking coat just about every day to prevent it from matting.
Care Guide
It is important to understand that the Irish Setter is a field dog that thrives on exercise, says Bruce Foote, 1st vice president of the Irish Setter Club of America. Regular grooming, including frequent brushing, is also crucial because their beautiful coats are prone to matting and collecting burrs. And, Foote adds, “They definitely like human interaction, so they need as much house time and human contact as possible. They are not a dog to be put in the backyard and ignored.”