History of the Breed: The solid-red Setter first appeared in Ireland in the early 19th century. The breed can be traced to a
setting Spaniel, and crosses were made with Pointers, English Setters, Gordon Setters, and other Spaniels. The breed was revered for
its remarkable sporting abilities and in less than a century the Irish was firmly established not only in Ireland
but throughout the British Isles. Starting in the mid 20th century two different type Irish Setters emerged, the field trial type, and
the show type. Field trials sought to breed dogs that were competitive against other pointing breeds. And conformation-minded breeders
produced larger, heavily-coated dogs that were more competitive in the show ring, the breed today is split into these two distinct types.
General Appearance: A large athletic sporting breed with a beautiful red coat. The head is long and lean, its length at least double
the width between the ears. The medium sized dark brown eyes are almond shaped and placed well apart. The long leather thin ears are set well
back and low hanging in a neat fold close to the head. The muzzle is moderately deep with a black or chocolate nose equipped with wide nostrils.
The body is long and straight with a deep chest that reaches to the elbows. The tail is strong and tapers to a fine point and is carried
straight level with the body or curving slightly upward. The coat is a rich red in color and is straight, fine, and glossy, longer on
ears, chest, tail and back of legs.
Coat: Short and fine on the head and forelegs. On all other parts of moderate length and flat. Feathering long and silky on ears;
on back of forelegs and thighs long and fine, with a pleasing fringe of hair on belly and brisket extending onto the chest. Fringe on
tail moderately long and tapering.
Color: Mahogany or rich chestnut red with no black. A small amount of white on chest, throat or toes, or a narrow centered
streak on skull is acceptable.
Grooming needs: Medium
Temperament of Breed: Always happy, very energetic and sweet natured.
Friendly with children: Yes, they are patient with children
Friendly with other dogs: Yes, when properly socialized
Suitability as a watchdog: Excellent
Exercise Level: High
Health Issues with the Breed: Major: Hip dysplasia, PRA, thyroid issues, hypertrophy osteodrystrophy, bloat
Minor: Skin problems
ACR -American Canine Registry
AKC -American Kennel Club
ANKC -Australian National Kennel Club
APRI -American Pet Registry Inc.
CKC -Continental Kennel Club
CKC -Canadian Kennel Club
FCI -Fédération Cynologique Internationale
KCGB -Kennel Club of Great Britain
NKC -National Kennel Club
NZKC -New Zealand Kennel Club
UKC -United Kennel Club
