Description

The Irish Red and White Setter is strong and powerful, without lumber athletic rather than racy. The head is broad in proportion to body, with good stop. Skull domed without occipital protuberance as in Irish Red Setters, fairly square, clean muzzle. The eyes are hazel or dark brown, round, slight prominence and without haw. The ears are set level with the eyes and well back, lying close to head. The jaw is strong with a perfect regular scissor bite, ie Upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws. The neck is moderately long, very muscular, but not too thick, slightly arched free from throatiness. The shoulders are well laid back. Elbows free, turning neither in nor out. Strong, oval bone well muscled, sinewy, pasterns slightly sloping. The body is strong and muscular, deep chest and well sprung ribs. Back and quarters very muscular and powerful. bone strong, well built up with muscle and sinew. The hindquarters are wide and powerful. Legs from hip to hock long and muscular from hock to heel short and strong. Stifle well bent, hocks well let down turning neither in nor out. The feet are close-knit, well feathered between toes. The tail is strong at the root, tapering to fine point, with no appearance of ropiness, not reaching below hock. Well feathered, carried level with back or below in lively manner. The coat is finely textured with good feathering. Slight wave permissible but never curly. Coat colors are clearly parti-colored, ie base color white, solid red patches. Mottling or flecking but not roaning permitted around face and feet and up foreleg to elbow and up the hind leg to the hock.

Origin

Original Irish Setters were parti-colored, red and white. The solid red Irish Setters were rare. In about 1850 the red Irish Setter began to gain popularity. The parti-colored setter started its slow decline. The Red and White Irish Setters became nearly extinct except for the few enthusiasts who kept the breed alive. In the early 1940's an attempt was made at the revival of the breed and it is from here that present owners can trace their pedigrees. In 1944 the Irish Red and White Club was formed. In 1984 the National Irish Red and White Setter Club of America, Inc. was formed.

Temperament

Irish Red and White Setters are energetic, intelligent, affectionate, high-spirited, and full of energy. They have no guarding instincts, get along with other animals, and are good with children. Irish Red and White Setters are responsive yet sensitive. This breed can be giddy and high strung, while some are more reserved. It is very lovable and impulsive. Some are difficult to train, probably because of their independent spirit, but given firm handling and plenty of exercise, these dogs can be a joy to own. Irish Red and White Setters are extremely swift, with an excellent sense of smell and are hardy over any terrain and in any climate. The Irish Red and White Setter is used for all types of hunting. It even works well on wetlands. Train this breed firmly at an early age to prevent development of bad habits, as this breed tends to pick up bad habits quickly. It is important to train for good house manners. These dogs are said to be easily housebroken. Both field lines and show lines make good pets, though the field lines are generally smaller with shorter coats and a much higher activity requirement.

Height

Height: Dogs 24-26 inches (62-66cm.) Bitches 22-24 inches (56-61cm.)

Weight

Weight: 50-75 pounds (25kg-34kg)

Known Health Problems

PPC (Posterior Polar Cataract) is a relatively minor form of cataract, doesn't normally lead to blindness, but is in the breed. Breeding stock should have their eyes checked and certified before breeding.

Conditions for Living

The Irish Red and White Setter is not recommended for apartment life and does best with a large yard. It is best suited to country rather than city life, as he has a high activity requirement and needs a lot of exercise.

Exercise Requirments

restless and difficult to manage. In addition, they will also enjoy running free in the safety of a fenced yard.

Life Expectancy

About 11-15 years.

Grooming

Daily brushing and combing of the soft, flat, medium-length coat is all that is required to keep it in excellent condition. Keep it free from burrs and tangles, and give a little extra care when the dog is molting. Bathe and dry shampoo only when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.

Group

Gun Dog