Andrea Arden 
Irish Red and White Setter
Irish Red and White Setter: The Athletic Sporting Aristocrat
Energetic, Affectionate, and Intelligent Hunting Companion
The Irish Red and White Setter is a classic sporting breed with a history dating back to 17th century Ireland. These elegant gundogs were developed for their exceptional bird-setting abilities, working tirelessly in the field to locate and indicate game birds for hunters. With their distinctive red and white coat pattern, athletic build, and enthusiastic personality, these setters have captured the hearts of dog enthusiasts who appreciate both their working ability and companionship.
For centuries, the Irish Red and White Setter was the preferred hunting dog in Ireland, but by the late 19th century, the solid red Irish Setter had become more popular, nearly driving the red and white variety to extinction. Thanks to dedicated breed enthusiasts, this magnificent setter was revived and today enjoys a growing following among hunters, show enthusiasts, and active families.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about the Irish Red and White Setter—from their fascinating history and distinctive characteristics to their care requirements and whether this energetic, intelligent breed might be the perfect addition to your active lifestyle.
Basic Information
The Irish Red and White Setter is a medium to large-sized sporting breed known for its distinctive coat pattern, athletic ability, and friendly disposition. These dogs were bred for hunting and field work, possessing exceptional stamina and bird sense.
| Other Names | IRWS, Modder Rhu |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Sporting (AKC) |
| Origin | Ireland |
| Height | 22.5-26 inches (female), 24.5-27 inches (male) |
| Weight | 45-70 pounds |
| Lifespan | 11-15 years |
| Coat | Medium-length, silky with feathering |
| Colors | Distinctive red and white pattern |
| Temperament | Friendly, energetic, intelligent, affectionate, determined |
| Energy Level | High - requires substantial daily exercise |
| Good With | Families, active singles, other dogs |
Did You Know?
The Irish Red and White Setter is the older of the two Irish Setter varieties, with records dating back to the 17th century. They were nearly extinct by the late 19th century when the solid red variety became more fashionable. A small group of dedicated breeders in Ireland worked to revive the breed, and today they're recognized as a separate breed from the Irish Setter, with their own distinct characteristics and working style.
History and Origin
The Irish Red and White Setter has a rich history as a working gundog in Ireland, where they were prized for their hunting ability and distinctive appearance.
Early Development
The breed's origins trace back to 17th century Ireland, where they were developed from spaniels, pointers, and other setting dogs. Their distinctive red and white coloring made them highly visible to hunters in the field, while their excellent scenting ability and natural pointing instinct made them invaluable hunting companions. Historical records and paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries show dogs remarkably similar to today's Irish Red and White Setters.
Throughout the 18th and early 19th centuries, the red and white variety was the predominant setter in Ireland. They were bred for working ability rather than appearance, with careful selection for stamina, bird sense, and temperament. These dogs would work closely with hunters, ranging through fields to locate game birds and then "set" or freeze in position to indicate where the birds were located.
Near Extinction and Revival
By the late 19th century, the solid red Irish Setter had become more fashionable in both show rings and hunting fields, nearly causing the extinction of the red and white variety. By the 1920s, only a few dedicated breeders in Ireland maintained the breed. The formation of the Irish Red and White Setter Society in 1944 helped coordinate preservation efforts. Through careful breeding and promotion, the breed was gradually revived. The first Irish Red and White Setters were imported to the United States in the 1970s, and the breed was fully recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2009.
Breed Development Timeline
- 17th Century: Early development in Ireland as working gundogs
- 18th Century: Established as the primary setter variety in Ireland
- Late 1800s: Decline in popularity as solid red variety gains favor
- 1920s-1930s: Near extinction with only a few specimens remaining
- 1944: Irish Red and White Setter Society formed in Ireland
- 1970s: First imports to the United States
- 2009: Full recognition by American Kennel Club
Appearance & Physical Traits
The Irish Red and White Setter is an athletic, balanced dog with distinctive coloring and an elegant yet substantial build.
Physical Characteristics
- Body: Athletic and well-proportioned, slightly longer than tall
- Head: Broad skull with defined stop, muzzle of good depth
- Eyes: Hazel or dark brown, with intelligent, kind expression
- Ears: Set level with eyes, of moderate length, hanging in folds
- Tail: Strong at root, tapering to fine point, carried level with back
- Coat: Fine texture with feathering on ears, legs, chest, and tail
Coat and Colors
The Irish Red and White Setter's coat is one of its most distinctive features:
- Coat Type: Fine texture with good feathering, not curly or woolly
- Texture: Silky and straight with slight wave acceptable
- Feathering: Moderate feathering on ears, back of legs, underside, and tail
- Color Pattern: Distinctive clear white base with solid red patches
- Markings: Flecking or roaning acceptable around face and feet
- Grooming: Regular brushing required to prevent matting of feathering
Size and Proportion
Irish Red and White Setters are substantial but elegant dogs:
- Height (Female): 22.5-24 inches at the shoulder
- Height (Male): 24.5-26 inches at the shoulder
- Weight: 45-70 pounds, with males typically larger
- Build: Athletic and well-balanced, built for endurance
- Substance: Strong bone without coarseness
Temperament & Personality
The Irish Red and White Setter combines intelligence, energy, and affection in a package that makes them excellent both as working dogs and family companions.
Affectionate & Devoted
Irish Red and White Setters form strong bonds with their families and thrive on human companionship. They're known for their gentle, loving nature and desire to be included in family activities.
Energetic & Athletic
Bred for endurance in the field, these setters have high energy levels and require substantial daily exercise. They excel at canine sports and outdoor activities.
Intelligent & Willing
These are intelligent dogs who are generally eager to please and responsive to training. Their working heritage means they're quick learners when properly motivated.
Social & Friendly
Irish Red and White Setters are typically friendly with people and other dogs. Their sociable nature makes them poor guard dogs but wonderful family companions.
Important Temperament Considerations
Irish Red and White Setters are high-energy dogs who require substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Without proper outlets for their energy, they can become destructive or develop behavioral issues. Their hunting heritage means they have strong prey drives and may chase small animals. Early socialization is important to ensure they develop into well-adjusted adults. They thrive in active households where they can participate in family activities. Their friendly nature means they typically get along well with children and other dogs, but their size and energy level require supervision with young children. They're sensitive dogs who respond poorly to harsh training methods.
Temperament Traits
Exercise & Activity Needs
Irish Red and White Setters have substantial exercise requirements due to their high energy levels and working heritage. They thrive with active owners who can provide both physical and mental stimulation.
Daily Exercise
60-90 Minutes
Vigorous daily exercise including running, hiking, or field work. These setters need opportunities to stretch their legs and burn energy regularly.
Multiple shorter sessions may work better than one long session.
Off-Leash Activity
30-60 Minutes
Secure off-leash running in safe areas allows them to exercise naturally. Their hunting heritage means they love to range and explore.
Only in securely fenced areas due to strong prey drive.
Mental Stimulation
Daily
Training sessions, puzzle toys, and scent work provide essential mental exercise. Their intelligence requires regular challenges.
Combine mental and physical exercise for best results.
Weekly Exercise Schedule
- Daily: 60-90 minutes of vigorous exercise
- 4-5 times per week: Off-leash running in secure areas
- Daily: Training sessions and mental stimulation
- Weekly: Opportunities for swimming, hiking, or canine sports
Exercise Considerations
Irish Red and White Setters are athletic dogs built for endurance, but their exercise should be adjusted based on age, health, and weather conditions. Puppies require controlled exercise to protect developing joints. Adults can handle substantial activity but should be conditioned gradually for intense sports. In warm weather, exercise should be scheduled during cooler parts of the day and plenty of water provided. Their strong prey drive means they should only be off-leash in securely fenced areas. Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise for this intelligent breed. Without adequate exercise and mental stimulation, they may develop destructive behaviors or become anxious.
Diet & Nutrition
Proper nutrition is essential for Irish Red and White Setters, who are active dogs with specific dietary needs to support their energy levels and overall health.
Puppy Diet
0-15 Months
High-quality large breed puppy food formulated for controlled growth, fed 3-4 times daily. Proper calcium-phosphorus balance is crucial for bone development.
Puppies need frequent, measured meals for proper growth.
Adult Diet
1.5-7 Years
High-performance adult dog food with balanced protein (22-28%) to support activity level. Adults typically need 3-4 cups daily, divided into two meals.
Adjust portions based on activity level and metabolism.
Senior Diet
7+ Years
Senior formula with joint support, controlled calories, and adjusted nutrient levels. Monitor weight as metabolism slows and adjust portions accordingly.
Seniors may need smaller, more frequent meals.
Nutritional Requirements
- Protein: High-quality sources for muscle maintenance in active dogs
- Fat: Moderate levels from quality sources for energy
- Omega Fatty Acids: Support skin, coat, and joint health
- Joint Support: Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
- Calorie Control: Important to prevent weight gain in less active dogs
Feeding Considerations
Irish Red and White Setters can be prone to bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), a life-threatening condition. Feed multiple smaller meals rather than one large meal, avoid vigorous exercise around mealtimes, and use elevated feeders. Some individuals may have food sensitivities, so monitor for digestive issues or skin problems. Adjust food amounts based on activity level - working dogs may need significantly more calories than pets. Provide fresh water at all times, especially for active dogs. Dental health is important, so consider dental chews or teeth brushing. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations based on your dog's age, size, and activity level.
Health & Care
Irish Red and White Setters are generally healthy with a lifespan of 11-15 years, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions.
Common Health Concerns
| Health Condition | Description | Prevention/Management |
|---|---|---|
| Hip Dysplasia | Developmental condition affecting hip joints | Genetic screening, weight management, joint supplements |
| Elbow Dysplasia | Developmental condition affecting elbow joints | Genetic screening, controlled exercise during growth |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | Genetic eye disorder leading to blindness | Genetic testing of breeding dogs, regular eye exams |
| Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency (CLAD) | Immune system disorder affecting Irish Setters | Genetic testing of breeding dogs |
| Bloat (GDV) | Life-threatening stomach twisting | Multiple small meals, no vigorous exercise after eating |
| Ear Infections | Common in floppy-eared breeds | Regular ear cleaning and inspection |
Grooming Requirements
The Irish Red and White Setter's beautiful coat requires regular maintenance to keep it healthy and free of mats.
Regular Brushing
2-3 Times Weekly
Brush with a pin brush or slicker brush to prevent mats and remove loose hair. Pay special attention to feathering on ears, legs, chest, and tail.
More frequent brushing during shedding seasons.
Bathing & Maintenance
Every 4-8 Weeks
Bathing as needed with gentle dog shampoo. Regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care. Professional grooming helpful for maintaining coat condition.
Regular maintenance prevents health issues.
Preventive Care
- Regular Veterinary Visits: Annual check-ups, more frequently for seniors
- Dental Care: Daily brushing and professional cleanings as needed
- Weight Management: Regular monitoring to prevent joint stress
- Joint Health: Supplements and controlled exercise, especially during growth
- Parasite Prevention: Regular flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
Training & Behavior
Training an Irish Red and White Setter requires patience, consistency, and positive methods that work with their intelligent but sometimes independent nature.
Training Approach
- Positive Reinforcement: Use reward-based training with high-value treats, praise, and play
- Consistency: Establish clear rules and expectations from the beginning
- Early Start: Begin training and socialization from 8-10 weeks old
- Variety: Keep training sessions interesting and engaging
- Patience: Allow for maturation as these dogs can be slow to fully mature
Socialization Needs
Early and ongoing socialization is crucial for Irish Red and White Setters:
- Puppy Classes: Enroll in puppy kindergarten for early socialization
- Various Environments: Expose to different people, places, and situations
- Other Animals: Supervised introductions to other pets, with attention to prey drive
- Positive Experiences: Ensure new experiences are positive and not overwhelming
Training Tips
Irish Red and White Setters respond best to positive reinforcement methods and can be sensitive to harsh corrections. Their intelligence means they learn quickly but may become bored with repetition. Make training rewarding and engaging to maintain their interest. Recall training is particularly important due to their strong prey drive - use high-value rewards and practice in safe, enclosed areas. Socialization is crucial to develop a well-adjusted dog who can handle various situations. These dogs mature slowly both physically and mentally, so patience is important. Their hunting heritage means they excel at activities that engage their natural abilities like field trials, tracking, and nose work.
Common Behavioral Issues
- High Energy: Destructive behavior if under-exercised
- Strong Prey Drive: Chasing small animals
- Separation Anxiety: Can develop if not properly conditioned to alone time
- Jumping Up: Enthusiastic greetings due to excitement
- Mouthing: Puppy biting that needs redirection
Living Environment
Irish Red and White Setters thrive in active households where they can get plenty of exercise and be included in family activities.
Ideal Home Setup
- Space: Best with access to a securely fenced yard
- Climate: Adaptable but prefer moderate temperatures
- Indoor Access: Should live indoors as part of the family
- Outdoor Space: Essential for adequate exercise
Family Compatibility
- Children: Good with children when properly socialized
- Other Pets: Generally good with other dogs, caution with small pets
- Active Owners: Ideal for runners, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts
- First-time Owners: Possible with commitment to training and exercise
Important Considerations
Irish Red and White Setters are active companion animals that thrive on human interaction and activity. They're best suited for households where someone is home regularly or can take the dog to work, though they can adapt to being alone for reasonable periods if properly exercised beforehand. Their high energy means they need substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Their size and energy level mean they may accidentally knock over small children. Potential owners should be prepared for their grooming needs and substantial exercise requirements. Their friendly nature means they typically get along well with visitors but make poor guard dogs. They do best in homes where they can be included in outdoor activities and adventures.
Best Living Situation
The ideal home for an Irish Red and White Setter is with an individual or family who:
- Has an active lifestyle with time for substantial daily exercise
- Values an intelligent, trainable companion for activities and sports
- Has access to secure outdoor space for running and playing
- Is patient with training and understands the breed's energy level
- Is committed to regular grooming and healthcare
Cost & Availability
Irish Red and White Setters are relatively uncommon with specific considerations regarding cost and availability.
Initial Costs
| Expense | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,500 - $2,500 | From reputable breeders; show or working lines at higher end |
| Adoption Fee | $300 - $600 | From shelters or breed-specific rescues |
| Initial Supplies | $400 - $700 | Crate, bed, bowls, collar, leash, grooming tools |
| Initial Vet Care | $300 - $600 | Exams, vaccinations, spay/neuter, microchip |
| Training Classes | $100 - $300 | Puppy kindergarten and basic obedience |
Annual Costs
- Food: $600 - $900 for high-quality dog food
- Veterinary Care: $500 - $1,000 for routine care and potential health issues
- Grooming: $400 - $800 for supplies or professional grooming
- Preventive Medications: $300 - $500 for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
- Training/Activities: $200 - $500 for ongoing classes or activities
- Miscellaneous: $300 - $600 for toys, treats, replacements
Availability
- Breeders: Limited number of reputable breeders; research is essential
- Rescues: Available through shelters and breed-specific rescues
- Popularity: Less common than Irish Setters but growing in recognition
- Geographic Variation: More common in certain regions; may require travel
- Waiting Period: Often significant wait for puppies from reputable breeders
Similar Breeds
If you're interested in the Irish Red and White Setter but want to explore similar breeds, consider these alternatives:
Irish Setter
Similar heritage and hunting ability but with solid red coloring. Typically slightly more refined and may have higher energy levels than Red and Whites.
English Setter
Similar setting ability and gentle temperament but with distinctive belton (speckled) coloring. Typically somewhat calmer than Irish Setters.
Gordon Setter
Similar setting heritage but with black and tan coloring. Typically somewhat larger and more deliberate in working style than Irish varieties.
Britanny
Similar hunting ability and energy level but smaller in size. Brittanys are pointing breeds rather than setters and may have slightly different working style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Irish Red and White Setters can be excellent family dogs for active households. They're typically gentle, affectionate, and good with children when properly socialized. Their high energy level means they do best with families who can provide substantial daily exercise and have space for them to run. Their size and exuberance may be too much for very young children, so supervision is recommended. They thrive when included in family activities and can form strong bonds with all family members. Their friendly nature and patience typically make them wonderful family companions for those who can meet their exercise needs.
Irish Red and White Setters need substantial daily exercise - typically 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity plus additional mental stimulation. This should include opportunities for running, ideally in a securely fenced area where they can stretch their legs. They excel at activities like hiking, running, field work, and canine sports. Without adequate exercise, they can become destructive or develop behavioral issues. Their high energy levels and endurance mean they're well-suited for active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities. Mental stimulation through training, puzzle toys, and scent work is also important for this intelligent breed.
Irish Red and White Setters are intelligent and generally eager to please, making them responsive to positive training methods. They learn quickly when properly motivated with rewards like treats, praise, and play. However, their hunting heritage means they can have independent streaks, especially when distracted by interesting scents. Consistency and patience are important, as is making training sessions engaging and varied to prevent boredom. Early socialization and puppy classes are highly recommended. They excel at activities that engage their natural abilities like field work, tracking, and canine sports. With proper training approach, they can be wonderful companions and working partners.
Irish Red and White Setters typically get along well with other dogs, especially when properly socialized. Their friendly, sociable nature usually makes them good candidates for multi-dog households. However, their strong hunting instincts mean they may chase small animals like cats, rabbits, or squirrels. Early socialization and training can help manage this prey drive, but caution is always advised around small pets. Some Irish Red and Whites can live peacefully with cats they're raised with, but supervision is recommended. Their hunting heritage means they're likely to chase running animals, so careful introductions and management are important when introducing them to other pets.
The main differences between Irish Red and White Setters and Irish Setters (solid red) are their coloring, history, and some subtle temperament and structural differences. Irish Red and Whites are the older variety with distinctive red and white patterning, while Irish Setters are solid red. Irish Red and Whites were preserved primarily as working dogs, while Irish Setters were developed more for show. Some enthusiasts note that Red and Whites may be slightly more methodical workers with strong hunting instincts, while Irish Setters can be more flashy and energetic. Structurally, Red and Whites may be slightly stockier with broader heads. Both make excellent companions, but Red and Whites remain less common than their solid red counterparts.
Irish Red and White Setters can be challenging for first-time dog owners due to their high energy levels, substantial exercise requirements, and need for consistent training. However, dedicated first-time owners who are active, committed to training, and have done thorough research can successfully own this breed. Their generally eager-to-please nature and intelligence can make them responsive to training, but their energy and potential for destructive behavior if under-exercised require significant commitment. First-time owners should be prepared to invest time in training classes, daily exercise, and proper socialization. Connecting with experienced owners and breeders can provide valuable support for those new to the breed.
Irish Red and White Setters require regular grooming to maintain their beautiful coat. They should be brushed 2-3 times per week to prevent mats and tangles, paying special attention to the feathering on their ears, legs, chest, and tail. During shedding seasons, more frequent brushing may be necessary. Bathing every 4-8 weeks or as needed helps keep their coat clean. Regular ear cleaning is important to prevent infections, and nails should be trimmed regularly. Many owners choose professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to maintain coat condition. While their grooming needs are substantial, they're generally less than some other long-haired breeds because their coat lies flat rather than continuing to grow indefinitely.
The average lifespan of an Irish Red and White Setter is 11-15 years. With proper care, some individuals may live even longer. Factors that influence lifespan include genetics, diet, exercise, preventive veterinary care, and management of breed-specific health issues. Providing a healthy lifestyle with regular veterinary check-ups, proper weight management, attention to joint health, and appropriate exercise can help ensure your Irish Red and White lives a long, healthy life. Their generally robust health and careful breeding practices contribute to their longevity. Responsible breeding practices that screen for genetic conditions have helped maintain the breed's overall health.
Bottom Line: Is an Irish Red and White Setter Right for You?
The Irish Red and White Setter is a magnificent sporting breed that combines beauty, intelligence, and working ability in one package. These energetic, affectionate dogs thrive in active households where they can be true companions in outdoor adventures. Their friendly nature and devotion to family make them wonderful companions, while their hunting heritage provides the drive and stamina for various canine sports and activities. However, they're not the right choice for everyone. Their substantial exercise requirements, grooming needs, and potential health considerations require committed owners. If you're an active individual or family looking for an intelligent, trainable companion who can keep up with your lifestyle and shares your love of the outdoors, the Irish Red and White Setter might be your perfect match. This historic breed rewards dedicated owners with years of loyalty, companionship, and the joy of sharing life with a true sporting aristocrat.
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