Irish Setter Breed Guide
Also known as: Red Setter, Irish Red Setter
Stunning red coats house energetic, outgoing personalities, Irish Setters are sporting dogs whose beauty matches their enthusiastic, friendly nature.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Large
Weight
25-32 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
High
Size
Large
Weight
25-32 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
High
About Irish Setters
The Irish Setter originated in Ireland during the 18th century, developed from various setter and spaniel breeds to create a dog capable of setting (pointing) and retrieving game birds. These elegant sporting dogs were bred for their stamina, intelligence, and distinctive red coat.
Irish Setters are large dogs with long, silky coats in rich chestnut or mahogany red colours. They're known for their elegant movement, feathered coats, and friendly, outgoing temperaments.
These dogs are intelligent, energetic, and make excellent family pets for active households. They're known for their friendly nature and their love of children. They require substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation, excelling in hunting and various dog sports. Their coats need regular brushing to prevent matting. While generally healthy, potential concerns include hip dysplasia, bloat, and certain eye conditions. Early socialisation helps ensure they develop into well-adjusted, confident adults.
Complete Care Guide for Irish Setters
Expert advice on keeping your Irish Setter healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Providing optimal nutrition for your Irish Setter requires careful attention to their unique dietary needs as an energetic sporting breed. A well-balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins forms the foundation of their nutritional requirements, supporting lean muscle maintenance and sustained energy levels throughout their active days.
Understanding the proper balance of macronutrients proves essential, with proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates working together to fuel their distinctive vitality. Quality protein sources should comprise approximately 25-30% of their diet, while healthy fats from sources like fish oils and flaxseed help maintain their signature gleaming coat and support joint health.
Careful consideration of life stage dietary requirements ensures your Irish Setter receives appropriate nutrition throughout their development. Puppies benefit from specially formulated foods supporting proper growth, while adult dogs require adjusted portions to maintain their ideal weight and muscle condition. Senior Irish Setters often need modified diets with targeted nutrition to support aging joints and maintain optimal organ function.
Regular monitoring of portion sizes and meal frequency helps prevent overfeeding, particularly important for this deep-chested breed prone to bloat. Establishing consistent feeding schedules with measured portions supports proper digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight throughout their life stages.
How healthy is your Irish Setter?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Irish Setters from our community of pet parents
Irish Setters are known for their friendly, outgoing, and energetic personalities. They are great with children and get along well with other dogs, making them excellent family pets. Despite their playful nature, they can also be sensitive and should be treated with kindness and respect.
Dog Breeds Similar to Irish Setter
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Irish Setter
Irish Red and White Setter
Striking sporting dogs with distinctive colouring, Irish Red and White Setters combine hunting ability with gentle, athletic personalities.
Gordon Setter
Scotland's black and tan beauties, Gordon Setters are loyal sporting dogs whose intelligence and striking appearance appeal to dedicated sporting enthusiasts.
English Setter
Elegant and gentle, English Setters are sporting dogs whose feathery coats and friendly nature make them beautiful, active household members.