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Breed Origins

The Irish Setter developed in Ireland during the 18th century. Originally, Irish setters came in both red and red-and-white patterns. The solid red dogs eventually became the preferred type, and by the mid-1800s, the rich mahogany coat that defines the breed had become standard.

The foundation stock likely included English Setter, Irish Terrier, Irish Water Spaniel, Gordon Setter, and Pointer. Irish sportsmen developed these dogs for finding and setting (pointing) game birds across the varied terrain of the Irish countryside.

Irish Setters were imported to America in the early 1800s and gained AKC recognition in 1878. The breed achieved peak popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, though this popularity led to divergence between show and field types.

Development as a Hunting Dog

The Irish Setter was developed as a fast, wide-ranging bird dog suited to the open spaces of Ireland. They were bred to cover ground quickly while maintaining contact with their handlers, a balance that made them effective on both quail and pheasant.

In America, the breed's popularity as a show dog and pet led to significant divergence from working lines. Show-bred Irish Setters are typically larger and more heavily coated, while field-bred dogs are smaller, lighter, and more athletic.

Field-bred Irish Setters remain capable hunters, prized for their speed, enthusiasm, and stylish points. The Red Setter, maintained by dedicated breeders, represents the original hunting type and is considered a distinct strain by some organizations.

Historical Timeline

1700s

Red setters documented in Ireland

1812

First Irish Setters imported to America

1878

AKC grants breed recognition

1962

National Red Setter Field Trial Club formed

Physical Characteristics

Size

Show type: Males 27 inches, 70 lbs. Females 25 inches, 60 lbs. Field type (Red Setters): Generally smaller and lighter, 45-55 lbs.

Coat

Long, silky, flat coat with abundant feathering on ears, chest, legs, belly, and tail. Show dogs have profuse coats; field dogs carry less feathering for easier maintenance.

Colors

Rich mahogany to chestnut red. Small amounts of white on chest, throat, toes, or a narrow blaze are acceptable. The coat should have a rich, lustrous sheen.

Build

Elegant, racy build with clean lines. Deep chest, well-sprung ribs, and strong hindquarters. Built for speed and endurance with effortless movement.

Breed Standard Highlights

Head: Long and lean; muzzle and skull roughly equal length
Expression: Soft, alert, intelligent; almond-shaped dark brown eyes
Ears: Set low and well back; hanging in neat folds close to head
Tail: Strong at root, tapering; carried level or slightly below back
Movement: Big, flowing stride; effortless, ground-covering gait

The Red Setter

Field-bred Irish Setters, often called "Red Setters," are smaller and more athletic than show dogs. The National Red Setter Field Trial Club maintains the hunting type, and some registries recognize them as a distinct breed.

Personality

The Irish Setter is known for its outgoing, friendly, and mischievous personality. These dogs approach life with enthusiasm and joy, greeting everyone as a potential friend. Their ebullient nature makes them delightful companions but can be overwhelming for those expecting a calm, reserved dog.

Irish Setters are intelligent but can be easily distracted—they're often described as perpetual puppies in their outlook on life. They mature slowly, both mentally and physically, and may retain puppy-like behavior well into adulthood.

In the field, Irish Setters are enthusiastic hunters with good noses and natural pointing instinct. They hunt with obvious joy, their beautiful red coats flashing through cover as they search for birds.

Family Compatibility

Irish Setters make wonderful family dogs for active households. They're excellent with children, patient and playful, and their friendly nature extends to strangers and other animals. They lack protective instincts but will alert to visitors.

Their high energy and need for attention make them best suited to families who can provide plenty of exercise and companionship. Irish Setters don't do well left alone for long periods and may develop destructive behaviors if bored or lonely.

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With Children

Excellent—playful, patient, and energetic

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With Other Dogs

Generally excellent—social and playful

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Living Situation

Needs space and activity; not for sedentary homes

Training Approach

Irish Setters are intelligent and willing to please, but their exuberant nature and distractibility can make training challenging. They respond best to positive methods with plenty of variety—repetitive drills bore them quickly.

Patience is essential. Irish Setters mature slowly and may take longer to develop focus and reliability than other breeds. Training sessions should be short, fun, and end on a positive note.

Early socialization is important not because of shyness—Irish Setters are naturally friendly—but to help them learn appropriate behavior around new people and situations without becoming too exuberant.

Field Training

Field-bred Irish Setters (Red Setters) have strong hunting instincts that emerge early. Training should channel their natural enthusiasm while developing the focus needed for reliable field work.

Bird Introduction (8-12 weeks)

Early exposure to birds; let natural instincts develop in a fun environment.

Foundation Work (4-12 months)

Develop hunting desire and basic obedience. Keep sessions fun and varied.

Steadiness Training (12-24 months)

Develop steady to wing and shot. Irish Setters need patience here.

Finished Work (2+ years)

Polish and refine as mental maturity develops. Many continue improving for years.

Hunting Style

The Irish Setter (particularly the field-bred Red Setter) is a fast, wide-ranging bird dog. They cover ground with speed and enthusiasm, their distinctive red coat making them easy to spot even at distance.

Field-bred Irish Setters point with style and intensity. They hunt with obvious joy, their tails wagging as they quarter through cover. While not as methodical as some breeds, their speed and athleticism allow them to cover extensive ground.

The breed has a good nose and natural hunting instincts. With proper training, Irish Setters can be effective on various upland birds. Their eager nature makes them enthusiastic partners in the field.

Best Game & Terrain

Primary Game Birds

Quail Pheasant Grouse Woodcock

Ideal Terrain

• Open fields and prairie
• Agricultural lands
• Light to moderate cover
• Mixed upland habitat
• Areas where range is beneficial

Speed and Style

A well-trained Irish Setter hunting quail or pheasant is a beautiful sight. Their speed, style, and striking appearance make them among the most attractive of bird dogs to watch work.

Important Distinction

For serious hunting, seek field-bred Red Setters rather than show-bred Irish Setters. The difference in hunting ability can be dramatic. The National Red Setter Field Trial Club maintains hunting bloodlines.

Exercise Needs

Irish Setters have very high exercise requirements. They're energetic dogs that need significant daily activity to remain healthy and well-behaved. Without adequate exercise, they can become hyperactive and destructive.

HIGH

Exercise Level

Minimum 1-2 hours of vigorous activity daily

• Running off-leash in safe areas (essential)

• Long hikes or jogging

• Field training and hunting

• Fetch and retrieving games

• Dog sports: agility, lure coursing

Warning: Irish Setters can be challenging for first-time dog owners due to their energy and slow maturity. They need active owners committed to daily exercise.

Grooming & Nutrition

Grooming Requirements

The long, silky coat requires regular attention:

• Brush thoroughly 2-3 times per week
• Daily brushing during shedding season
• Check ears weekly; prone to infection
• Trim feet and between pads
• Field dogs benefit from shorter feathering
• Professional grooming helpful but not essential

Nutrition

Active Irish Setters need quality fuel:

• High-quality food appropriate for activity level
• 2-3 cups daily, split into 2-3 meals (bloat prevention)
• Never exercise within 1 hour of meals
• Monitor weight—should be lean
• Increase calories during hunting season

Finding a Breeder

For hunting, specifically seek field-bred Red Setters rather than show-line Irish Setters. The National Red Setter Field Trial Club and its breeders are the best source for hunting dogs.

The Irish Setter Club of America can provide referrals, though many of their breeders focus on show dogs. Be specific about your hunting intentions when contacting breeders.

Evaluate breeders carefully. Ask about hunting backgrounds, health testing, and temperament. Visit if possible and see the dogs work or at least observe their energy and drive.

What to Look For

Health clearances (hips, eyes, PRA, thyroid)
Field-bred (Red Setter) bloodlines
Parents actively hunted or competed
Balanced temperament—friendly but focused
Breeder's reputation in field community

Rescue Options

Irish Setter rescue groups exist across the country. Many rescues are surrendered due to the breed's high energy—not behavioral problems. Adult dogs let you see personality and sometimes hunting instinct.

Expected Costs

Field-bred Red Setter puppies typically range from $800-$1,500. Show-line Irish Setters may cost more but are less suited to hunting. Quality hunting bloodlines are worth seeking out.

Irish Setter