Irish Setter

Breed Group: Sporting

"I’m your chance to fall in love with a gorgeous redhead!"

Breed Profile

Irish Setters are beautiful red dogs who have the stereotypical fiery red-headed personality. They are fun, loyal, and loving, yet have a reputation for wanting things their own way. You’ll always have an energetic friend who’s up for adventure if you choose an Irish Setter.

Behavior

Irish Setters are spirited and hyper well past the age that most dogs settle down. Some never seem to grow up, but that’s why they are so fun. Irish Setter’s possess a high level of intelligence and independent thinking style, but even though they don’t always listen, they do really love their owners. They get along well with new people, but may bark to announce their arrival, before running up to them and demanding attention.

Coat

Irish Setters have beautiful, medium-length coats with wispy feathering on their ears, chest, underside, legs, and tail. You’ll need to brush the hair 2-3 times per week to keep them tangle free and looking their best.

Lifestyle

Irish Setters do best when they have easy access to a large area to play yet can still live inside with people. They get along fine with cats and other dogs, especially if they were raised around them. Irish Setters love children but sometimes get too excited and play a little too rough with toddlers.

Activity

Plan on giving an Irish Setter about an hour of exercise every day. Many Irish Setters are bred for hunting and they’ll all enjoy a trip out to the field. Otherwise, a long hike, a jog, or a trip to the dog park will help your Irish Setter burn off their well-stocked supply of energy. If your Irish Setter is not getting enough exercise, they’ll let you know by acting out, so be sure you’re dedicated to spending lots of playtime together—or your furniture gets it!

Irish Setter Characteristics

Space Needs
Activity Needs
Intelligence
Playfulness
Grooming Needs
Trainability
Watchdog Ability
Affection
Barking
Cat-friendliness
Dog-friendliness
Child-friendliness