Originating in Ireland during the mid-1600s, the Irish red and white setter actually predates the familiar red Irish setter. The Irish red and white setter was popular in the hunting fields, but a quest to produce a solid red setter for the show ring was pursued in the 1800s. By the end of the century, the Irish setter’s popularity surpassed that of its red and white cousin. After World War I, the Irish red and white setter was nearly extinct until efforts to revive the breed were initiated in 1920. In 2009, the American Kennel Club recognized the Irish red and white setter as a member of the sporting group.
The muscular and athletic physique of the Irish red and white setter stands 22.5 to 36 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 50 to 75 pounds. Irish red and white setters have silky coats with feathering on the chest, abdomen, ears, tail and the backs of the legs. The coat is white with solid, deep red patches. The earflaps hang downward, the tail is long and tapered and the muzzle is square. The Irish Red and White Setter has a slender build and is able to run at great speed. It has stamina and endurance. Its coat is long and flat with longer hair on its large ears, legs, stomach and tail. It needs to be brushed frequently and needs occasional clipping and scissoring.
Personality
Irish red and white setters are active dogs that were developed as hunters. They require daily opportunities for outdoor physical exercise, and they will not thrive in an apartment setting. In addition to hunting and hiking companions, Irish red and white setters are excellent candidates for various dog sport activities. Irish red and white setters are affectionate and friendly. They get along well with children and other dogs, and Irish red and white setters will get along with cats if they are raised with them. Stray cats and backyard wildlife may be perceived as potential prey. Irish red and white setters are intelligent, but they can also be headstrong. Irish red and white setter puppies are boisterous and rambunctious, but they become mild-mannered and gentle as they mature. The Irish Red and White Setter is a happy and active dog. It loves to roam outside and can run tirelessly. It has abundant energy and needs vigorous exercise every day. If it doesn't get sufficient exercise it is known to start barking excessively out of boredom. This is a very affectionate breed that is absolutely devoted to its family. It is very friendly towards other dogs and strangers, which doesn't make it the best watchdog.
Breed Characteristics
| Family: | Pointer |
| Life Span: | 11 - 15 years |
| Nicknames: | IRWS, Irish R&W Setter |
Irish Red And White Setter Build Information
The muscular and athletic physique of the Irish red and white setter stands 22.5 to 36 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 50 to 75 pounds. Irish red and white setters have silky coats with feathering on the chest, abdomen, ears, tail and the backs of the legs. The coat is white with solid, deep red patches. The earflaps hang downward, the tail is long and tapered and the muzzle is square. The Irish Red and White Setter has a slender build and is able to run at great speed. It has stamina and endurance. Its coat is long and flat with longer hair on its large ears, legs, stomach and tail. It needs to be brushed frequently and needs occasional clipping and scissoring.
| Size: | Large |
Behaviour and Personality
Irish red and white setters are active dogs that were developed as hunters. They require daily opportunities for outdoor physical exercise, and they will not thrive in an apartment setting. In addition to hunting and hiking companions, Irish red and white setters are excellent candidates for various dog sport activities. Irish red and white setters are affectionate and friendly. They get along well with children and other dogs, and Irish red and white setters will get along with cats if they are raised with them. Stray cats and backyard wildlife may be perceived as potential prey. Irish red and white setters are intelligent, but they can also be headstrong. Irish red and white setter puppies are boisterous and rambunctious, but they become mild-mannered and gentle as they mature. The Irish Red and White Setter is a happy and active dog. It loves to roam outside and can run tirelessly. It has abundant energy and needs vigorous exercise every day. If it doesn't get sufficient exercise it is known to start barking excessively out of boredom. This is a very affectionate breed that is absolutely devoted to its family. It is very friendly towards other dogs and strangers, which doesn't make it the best watchdog.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Very affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very friendly |
Appearance
The silky coat of an Irish red and white setter should be brushed twice each week to remove dead hair and prevent tangling. This should also be done after hunting expeditions to remove dirt, burrs and brush. The ears should be inspected once a week and cleaned if necessary to prevent ear infections. Brushing the teeth every other day is essential to maintaining dental and overall health.
| Shedding: | Little |
| Grooming: | Low Maintenance |
Irish Red And White Setter Common Health Conditions
Irish red and white setters have average lifespans of 11 to 15 years. Some health concerns that have been noted in this breed include hip dysplasia, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, von Willebrand's disease, canine leukocyte adhesion deficiency and hypothyroidism.
Irish Red And White Setter Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
Many people are familiar with the solid red coloring of the Irish setter. The Irish red and white setter is a separate and distinct breed, and the Irish red and white setter is older than the Irish setter. The Irish red and white setter originated in Ireland. The Irish red and white setter is also known as red and white Irish setter and a parti-colored setter. The Irish red and white setter is an enthusiastic and active breed with a friendly temperament. The Irish red and white setter stands 22,5 to 36 inches tall and weighs 50 to 75 pounds. The Irish red and white setter has a high energy level. Irish red and white setters require minimal grooming. The average lifespan for an Irish red and white setter is 11 to 15 years.
| Training: | Medium |