"I get an 'A' for effort!"
Irish Red and White Setters are smart and enthusiastic. They love hunting, running, retrieving, or just about anything that gives them an opportunity to move their four legs very quickly. You can’t ask for a more beautiful dog, and although they have a stubborn streak in them, most families find them to be excellent additions.
Irish Red and White Setters are naturally curious and will go wherever their keen noses tell them to. They are extra energetic when they are puppies, but mellow out once they get to be about two years old. Irish Red and White Setters have a reputation for wanting to do things their own way, but are still trainable as long as you’re patient. Despite being headstrong, Irish Red and White Setters are gentle and good natured, provided they get enough exercise.
Irish Red and White Setters have a beautiful silky coat that should be brushed regularly. They shed moderately and have a tendency to carry bits and pieces of their outdoor adventures back with them in their hair. Brushing will help reduce shedding and the amount of dirt and burrs that you find around your house. Your Irish Red and White Setter will also appreciate the brushing because it will keep their coat tangle-free.
Irish Red and White Setters usually get along well with other dogs, but can sometimes be aggressive toward cats or other smaller pets. If raised together, they can coexist with your cats, but you may want to keep an eye on them when they are together. Children and Irish Red and White Setters make great friends, however, exuberant puppies and toddlers don’t always make the best combination. Irish Red and White Setters do best when they live in the house with their owners and would prefer that house to have a yard where they have plenty of room to play and sniff out any critters that share their space.
It’s very important that Irish Red and White Setters get about an hour of exercise every day, otherwise they can become frustrated and destructive. They will happily hunt, hike, or walk with you and enjoy every second of the adventure. If you want to get involved with doggie sports, Irish Red and White Setters are up to the challenge. As long as you give your Irish Red and White Setter ample opportunity to get active, they’ll be happy.