Irish Red and White Setter - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) Origin
We are not completely sure about the breeds history, but it is believed, that the Irish Red and White Setter was probably developed in 1600s in Irish mountains and swamps to locate and hunt birds. The first actual written record that refers to a setter that was red and white dates back to the mid-17th century.

2) Two Irish Setters
Today, there are two recognized Irish Setter breeds, the Red and White and the more popular all red. But even though the all red variety is more popular these days, it is fairly certain, that the red and white type is the older of the two and that the red variety was selectively bred from them. Originally, all the color variations, which includes all red, red and white and sometimes even all white were considered as one breed – the Irish Setter, but today both varieties are recognized as separate breeds by most kennel clubs in the world.

3) Almost extinct
At the end of 19th century, the all red Irish Setter became much more popular the the Red and White Setter and the demand for all red dogs was much higher. This caused, that the Irish Red and White Setter almost became extinct. Luckily, during the 1920s groups of enthusiasts decided to revive the breed and they were succesfull and in 1950s the breed was already reestablished.

4) Hunter
This is truly extraordinary hunter and field dog. The Irish Red and White setter is a tireless natural pointer, that can hunt all day even in rough terrain. They would sneak up on game, most often birds by crawling on their bellies and than take almost frozen pointing stance, which is either stand at point or crouched low to the ground.

5) Companion
Of course, this is not just a hunter, the Irish Red and White Setter can be also great companion. This is a friendly, totally devoted and affectionate dog breed that creates strong bond with its family. This is also very intelligent breed, but just like all hunting breeds, they know how to be stubborn, so patient and firm training is needed. This is usually a gentle and good natured dog that get along with kids or other dogs, but of course, you should never leave any dog breed with a very young child unsupervised.

6) Appearance
Of course the appearance and looks arent everything, but you must admit, that this dog just looks perfect. They are athletic and they have this beautiful silky and slightly feathered coat. As the name implies, the color of this breed is always red and white, to be more specific, the base colour is a pearly white and there should be solid patches of deep-red.

7) Size
This is a strong, well balanced and athletic dog breed with average height between 57-66 cm which is 23-26 inch and weight is typically between 23-32 kg, which is 50-70 lbs.

8) Exercise
As you can probably imagine from a dog that is born to hunt all day long, this is a higly energetic and athletic dog breed that needs daily proper exercise. If you are not using this dog for hunting, you will have to také them on daily longer walks or hikes accompanied with some task oriented and interactive playtime and regular training sessions. Otherwise, they will become bored, unhappy or even depressed and can develop unwanted behaviour.

9) Maintenance
The maintenance of Irish Red and White Setter is not hard, but the silky coat does shed moderately, so brushing and combing few times a week will minimize the shedding and keep the coat in top condition. You should také proper care about the feathering, since it can tangle easily. Other than that, you should regularly check their eyes, ears and nails and clip them or clean them if needed.

10) Health
The Irish Red and White Setter is relatively healthy dog breed, but just like all dogs, they can suffer from various health issues, like Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia or hypothyroidism. The average lifespan is between 10-13 years.