{"id":40484,"date":"2024-04-21T06:29:43","date_gmt":"2024-04-21T06:29:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/animalcorner.org\/?post_type=dog_breeds&p=40484"},"modified":"2024-04-21T06:29:44","modified_gmt":"2024-04-21T06:29:44","slug":"irish-red-and-white-setter","status":"publish","type":"dog_breeds","link":"https:\/\/animalcorner.org\/dog-breeds\/irish-red-and-white-setter\/","title":{"rendered":"Irish Red and White Setter"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The Irish Red and White Setter, is a medium sized Irish dog breed<\/a> breed with ancient origins. Their setter ancestors were used as gundogs or ‘bird dogs’, and this is a role that the modern Irish Red and White Setters continue to excel in to this day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"irish-red-white-setter-2115656\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

A well trained dog has an exceptional work ethic and ability, with a sense of smell that makes them masters of their role. Even away from their working roots, they also make great companion dogs, as longs as you are active can can provide them with lots of activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Irish Red and White Setters are members of the Sporting Dogs Group by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC). Subsequently, they are registered in the Gundog Group with The Kennel Club in the UK. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to learn more about the Irish Red and White Setter, read on below as we discuss their history, characteristics and what living with and taking care of these beautiful dogs is like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We also have loads of other breeds to explore here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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History Of The Irish Red and White Setter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Irish Red and White Setter has its roots in 17th century Ireland, where it was developed primarily for bird setting and retrieving. This breed, known for its distinct red and white coat, was once the more prevalent variant of the Irish setters. However, by the late 19th century, its numbers declined as the all-red Irish Setter had become ‘fashionable’ and gained popularity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was not until the efforts of dedicated breeders in the 20th century, especially Reverend Noble Huston in the 1920s, that the breed saw a resurgence and was saved from the brink of extinction. To this day, they are still considered to be a vulnerable breed, perhaps overlooked for other setters that don’t take as long to train. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Breed Origin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a part of the setter group, which includes the English Setter and Gordon Setter, the Irish Red and White Setter was bred to work closely with hunters to locate game birds. Its coloring, made them easily identifiable for their master with the gun. While the modern setters that we recognise today started to become established as breeds in the 17th Century, their origins come from much older breeds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"irish-red-and-white-setter-stalking-7681626\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Setters, would have been used in the UK as far back as the Roman times, recognized under the ancient term ‘setting dogges’. The tools of the hunter had changed between the ancient to medieval ages, moving from net to gun. The setter however, performed the same job, skills honed over centuries. They would find the bird and ‘set’ in place looking in the direction of where the prey lay, so the hunter could retrieve. As guns became the tool of choice, the dog had to learn to be brave enough to stay in place at the sound of a shot. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Quick Facts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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  • Intelligent and Affectionate<\/strong> – Renowned for their intelligence, this breed is quick to learn and eager to please. They also have an affectionate nature and this makes them excellent companions, often forming deep bonds with their families.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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    • Distinctive Markings<\/strong> – The Irish Red and White Setter sports a unique coat with a pearly white base and distinct red patches. Their coat is highly visible in the field, an attribute that suits their hunting heritage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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      • Energetic and Athletic<\/strong> – With roots as a hunting dog, the Irish Red and White Setter is full of energy and requires lots of exercise. They are well proportioned and strong in both work and play. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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        • Family-Oriented Guardians<\/strong> – These setters are known for their loyalty and protective instincts, often staying close to their owners like a shadow. They love regular interaction and are happiest when included in family activities, be that in play or out on a walk.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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          • Coat Variety Over Time<\/strong> – While their coat color is set from birth, the texture and fullness develop as they mature. The coat needs regular grooming to maintain its condition and appearance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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            Characteristics Of The Irish Red and White Setter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

            While known globally as the Irish Red and White Setter, this breed is sometimes affectionately shortened to ‘Red and White’ among enthusiasts and breeders. Other than this, there aren’t really any nicknames and this setter tends to maintain its full name universally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Irish Red and White Setters typically have litters ranging from 6 to 8 puppies, similar to other medium to large breeds. These puppies are lively and rapidly develop a sense of their environment. As with most similar breeds, they should be ready to join their new homes around 8 to 10 weeks old. It is crucial to keep them with their parent for these first few weeks as it allows them to learn vital social skills from their mother and siblings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            The cost of an Irish Red and White Setter puppy can vary significantly based on factors such as pedigree, breeder reputation, and geographic location. Generally, prices might range from $800 to $1500 in US Dollars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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            Appearance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

            Athletic and strong, the Irish Red and White Setter is slightly taller than its red-coated cousin, the Irish Setter. The trade off for this, is that it is not quite as sporty, and a little heavier. It stands tall with a noble carriage, and a balanced and proportionate build. Characteristics that complement its active nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            The Irish Red and White Setter is a medium to large-sized breed, typically standing between 22.5 and 26 inches at the shoulder, with males generally being slightly larger than females. Their weight ranges from 45 to 70 pounds across the sexes, some males might reach 75 pounds and still be a healthy weight. They usually reach their full size and weight by around 18 months of age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            These setters have a broad head and a powerful jaw. Their ears are set level with the eyes and lie close to the head, resembling those of a typical Setter rather than the upright ears of a German Shepherd. The breed’s shoulders are well laid back, and they have a level back with strong forelegs and muscular hind legs. These gundogs are designed for stamina and agility in the field.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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            <\/td>Male<\/strong><\/td>Female<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
            Height<\/strong><\/td>24 to 26 in (61 to 66 cm)<\/td>22.5 to 24 in (57 to 61 cm)<\/td><\/tr>
            Weight<\/strong><\/td>55 – 70 lbs (25 – 32 kg)<\/td>45 – 60 lbs (20 – 27 kg)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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            Coat<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

            The breed’s coat is short and fine on the head and front of the legs, and medium long on the rest of the body with feathering at the ears, chest, tail, and back of the legs. Its a silky, double coat with long silky fringes, very comforting to the touch. It’s not the lowest shedding coat, but with regular grooming, it’s not bad either.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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            Color<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

            The ideal coloration is a clear white base with solid red patches. The shade of red is pretty strict, in that it should be a deep, rich veering toward chestnut color. Light reds or ginger are not accepted in the purebred standard. Flecking or some mottling is allowed but should not form large patches or roaning, particularly on the face, feet and lower hind legs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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            Temperament<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

            The Irish Red and White Setter is very well known for its happy, friendly, and affectionate temperament. They have an admirably good nature, don’t frighten easily and are very adaptable, making them excellent family pets. These dogs are typically very sociable and enjoy being part of family activities. They are known to be particularly good with children, displaying patience and gentleness. They can be a bit boisterous and lively as pups though, and should be kept an eye on around young children during this life stage to prevent accidents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            They are described as biddable, meaning they tend to be generally cooperative and easy to manage, which is a very important trait in hunting and field dogs. Despite their active nature, they are also known for being calm indoors, provided they receive plenty of physical and mental stimulation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Irish Red and White Setters thrive on human interaction and can become unhappy if left alone for long periods. They are not known to be overly territorial but will alert their family to the presence of strangers, making them decent watchdogs. Their amiable disposition, however, means they are more likely to greet an intruder with a wagging tail rather than a fierce growl.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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            Lifespan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

            The medium-large Red and White Setter typically lives a healthy life of between 11 to 15 years according the the AKC. Some sources play the average down a little to between 10-12 years so there may be some geographical disparity at play here. In any case, they have the potential to live by your side for many years when kept in good health. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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            Known Health Issues<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

            These are generally a very healthy breed, but as with all dogs there are a few health conditions that can develop as a cause for concern. There are three major health concerns in particular that are monitored by the various Kennel Clubs. These are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Canine Leucocyte Adhesion Deficiency (CLAD) – <\/strong>This is a genetic disorder that affects the dog’s immune system, making them more susceptible to infections. It is an autosomal recessive disorder, which means a puppy must inherit the defective gene from both parents to be affected. This is one reason why getting medical testing and certification from a reputable breeder is important when you buy a puppy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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            • Treatment <\/em><\/strong>– Symptoms can include delayed wound healing, persistent infections, and severe gum disease. Unfortunately, there is no cure for CLAD, and management typically involves preventing infections through hygiene and possibly antibiotics.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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              von Willebrand’s Disease (vWD)<\/strong> – vWD is a blood clotting disorder commonly found in dogs and is similar to the condition in humans. It leads to reduced levels or functionality of von Willebrand factor, which is essential for blood clotting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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              • Treatment <\/em><\/strong>–  Symptoms can include excessive bleeding from minor injuries or surgeries, nosebleeds, and bleeding gums. Treatment may involve managing bleeding episodes through medications that boost the concentration of von Willebrand factor in the blood or administering blood products that contain the factor.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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                Posterior Polar Cataract (PPC)<\/strong> – PPC refers to a type of cataract that affects the back of the lens of the eye, which can lead to impaired vision and potentially lead to blindness if it progresses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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                • Treatment <\/em><\/strong>– Treatment for PPC in dogs typically involves surgical removal of the cataract if it significantly impairs vision. Surgery is usually quite successful, and many dogs regain good vision post-procedure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                  As with most active breeds, hip dysplasia may also become an issue down the line. I can’t state this strong enough, but responsible breeding and health testing are crucial for maintaining the breed’s health. If a breeder can’t produce the certification and hasn’t had genetic testing done on the parent dogs, you buy at your own risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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                  Daily Life With An Irish Red and White Setter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

                  Now that we\u2019ve covered the different characteristics of an Irish Red and White Setter, let\u2019s take a look at what daily life with one of these dogs looks like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Food and Diet<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                  For the Irish Red and White Setter, a balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins, vitamins and minerals is crucial to support their active lifestyle and maintain their muscular build. It is recommended to feed them a high-quality kibble, raw or wet food, divided into two meals per day. This approach helps in maintaining their energy levels evenly throughout the day and supports overall health. You can spread it across three meals too if that is more suitable to you and your dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  As a medium to large breed, the typical daily intake should be about 3 to 4 cups of food, split between these meals. However, the exact quantity may vary based on the dog’s age, weight, activity level, and metabolic rate. Puppies and highly active adult dogs may require more food, while older or less active dogs may need less to avoid obesity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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                  Exercise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                  With a sporting history and disposition,  these dogs have a high drive for activity and physical stimulation. They don’t take to stubbornness too easily, but can develop a streak if not given good mental stimulation too. They need plenty of exercise though and are generally happy with this and a moderate amount of play. They won’t be at you all the time to shake a rag like some other breeds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  They do best with plenty of time off the lead to run, jump and burn off their energy. When well trained they will be generally fine off the lead, but while training, space to run even in a fenced off yard is essential. You don’t want them to bore, especially as a pup, or they can develop mischief. In maturity, they will be happy to join you on long walks and hikes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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                  Family Compatibility<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                  A well trained and socialized Irish Red and White Setter is a great family dog. They tend to do very well with other dogs and pets, and with their gentle and affectionate nature they are great with kids too. They are known to form strong bonds with all family members. While they are good with kids, like any dog, they should be supervised around young babies and smaller children to ensure safe interactions. Particularly when they are puppies, still learning and a bit more boisterous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Their protective instincts are less pronounced than some breeds, but they will still look out for their family members. Due to their need for regular, vigorous exercise and mental stimulation, this breed is better suited to homes with access to open spaces where they can run and play.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  They may not adapt well to apartment living or urban environments where space for exercise is limited. A home with a yard or easy access to parks and outdoor spaces would be ideal for these dogs to remain well-adjusted family pets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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                  Training<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                  The Irish Red and White Setter can take a bit longer to train than other Setters, but when well trained they are an incredibly versatile and intelligent dog indeed. They are highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, which can help channel their natural intelligence and energy in a positive direction. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Sessions should be short but consistent for best results and they should be interesting for the dog. If you are upbeat, they will be upbeat and responsive too, with a genuine eagerness to please. It is in their nature to be exceptional at obedience, tracking and hunting but these skills need to be honed and developed and the earlier this is started the better. Be patient, but consistent and give them plenty of time and plenty to do. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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                  Socializing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                  Early socialization is key to developing a well-rounded dog, helping prevent shyness and nervousness. When started early and introduced to various normal living situations, sights and sounds they can develop into some of the most gentle and affectionate dogs. More likely to greet a person at the door than to bark, and very well natured with all the family and friends. They are great with other pets and animals too, particularly when this is normalized early. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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                  Grooming<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                  While they don’t shed too much, they do need regular grooming. Not overly so, but a good brush once a week to prevent tangles in the coat is recommended. Bathing and nail clipping can be best judged depending on their lifestyle. If they are less active or old, you might need to clip nails more often, other wise every couple of months or so. You can judge by eye. If they are very active, with lots of muddy walks, they may need more frequent baths. Otherwise monthly should be enough as a guide. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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                  Breed Traits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
                  Positive Traits<\/strong><\/td>Negative Traits<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
                  Good with other dogs<\/td>Separation anxiety if left alone a lot or not included<\/td><\/tr>
                  Affectionate with family, including children<\/td>Very excitable and ‘jumpy’ when young<\/td><\/tr>
                  Very Adaptable – intelligent and easy to train<\/td>High exercise needs<\/td><\/tr>
                  Very Social – good with visiting friends<\/td>Stubbornness if under stimulated or not well trained<\/td><\/tr>
                  Healthy life expectancy<\/td><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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                  Breed FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n
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                  Are Irish Red and White Setters good with children?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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                  Yes, they are known to be a great family dog, gentle and affectionate with children. They are devoted to the family and very intelligent too.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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                  Are Red and White Irish Setters rare?<\/h3>\n
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                  After nearly disappearing in the early 20th Century, they are still a vulnerable breed. But they are also very popular, because of their great temperament and family compatibility. They can be difficult to find and demand is usually high. <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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                  Are Irish Red and White Setters easy to train?<\/h3>\n
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                  They can take longer to train than some other Setters, particularly as gun dogs, but they are highly trainable and very intelligent dogs. <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

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                  Summary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

                  The Irish Red and White Setter is an attractive dog, in both appearance and spirit. With a history rooted deeply in Irish culture, the vulnerable breed has become more popular again. They could charm and warm the coldest of hearts, with their devoted and affectionate nature and their naturally warm personality. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  They are also exceptional sporting dogs or gundogs though, with centuries of genetic instinct behind their breeding. With good training and an attentive family they will thrive, but they need space and lots of activity to do so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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