Family: Setter
Breed Group: Gun Dog
Origin: Ireland
Date of Origin: 17th century
Originally used for: Hunting
Used today: Hunting, companion, field trials
Other Name(s):
History of the Breed: The Red and White Setter first appeared in Ireland in the late 17th century it is an older breed than the Irish
Setter. These dogs 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 was firmly established not only in Ireland but throughout the British
Isles. The Irish Setter became the dominate Setter and as a result by the end of the 19th century the Red and White Setter almost became extinct.
During the 1920s a concentrated effort was started to restore the breed. By the mid 20th century breeders had re-established the population and
these Red and White Setters can be seen today competing and winning at Irish shows and Field Trials.
General Appearance: A large athletic sporting breed with a beautiful white coat with deep red patches. 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
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 white with rich red patches and is
straight, fine, and glossy, longer on ears, chest, tail and back of legs.
Height & Weight:
Height 22 - 26 inches
Weight 50 - 70 pounds.
Coat: Short and fine on the head and forelegs. On all other parts the coat is of moderate length and flat with long and silky feathering on the ears,
belly, back of forelegs, and tail.
Color: Mostly white, with deep red patches
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:
Life Expectancy: 12 to 13 years
2006 AKC Ranking: Not Ranked
First Registered by the AKC: Not Registered
Registries: UKC, NZKC, KC, CKC, ANKC, FCI, AKC Foundation Stock Service
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
Breed Organizations & Associations:
Irish Red and White Setter Club
Irish Red and White Setter Club of Great Britain
Irish Red & White Setter Association Inc.