Irish Setters are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. In the most recent American Kennel Club rankings, the Irish Setter is ranked No. 77. The breed is known for being friendly, energetic, and loving. Owing to the Irish Setters easygoing nature, these unique dog breeds are among the ideal companions possible. So to help you know more about this breed, here are some interesting facts about Irish Setters.
Irish Setter has Stunning Coats
Although most Irish setters have pure red coats, there was a period when owners desired these dogs to have a white and red coat. This colorful coat made it easier for owners to find them in the wild while on hunts. As show dogs became more prominent than hunting canines in the 19th century, solid-red Setters became increasingly popular. The old breed with the multicolor coat is already recognized as the Red-White Setter.
The Setters’ best distinctive feature is its stunning red coats with colors white and red. The coat is moderately long with a silky feel and wavy nature. The hair on the Setter’s ears is short and fine. Its coat requires frequent grooming to prevent matting and tangles, especially behind the ears and on the legs.
These Breeds Mature at a Slower Rate Than Other Breeds
While other dog breeds reach maturity within a year or two, Irish Setters mature more slowly. It usually takes three years for them to fully mature. It is among the facts about Irish Setters that make them even more special. They remain puppies longer, which means you enjoy their company and energy for an extended period.
During their first year, Setters grow quickly. They will double their weight by six months old and triple it by the time they turn one. After that, their growth rate will start to slow down. By two years old, they will have reached about 90% of their full adult size.
Full-grown Irish Setters weigh between 40 and 60 pounds, with males being on the heavier end of the spectrum. They typically stand between 24 and 28 inches tall at the shoulder. These dogs are one of the best companion dogs you can have. If you’re looking for a dog that will be by your side for many years to come.
Irish setters have a slower mature rate, implying that their physical development usually outperforms their behavioral maturation. Irish setters develop clever canines that match their physical growth throughout age, resulting in bright, full-grown Setters with a fair degree of “puppy energy.”
The Size of Female and Male Irish Setters Is Almost Similar
When picking an Irish Setter dog, you will find that the size of males and females is not much different. The height of a female Setter is 23 to 26 inches, while a male’s height is 24 to 28 inches. Regarding weight, the average for both genders is 55 to 70 pounds. So, if you’re looking for a Setter of a specific size, either gender can be a good choice.
Don’t Get Blinded by Its Red Color
If you have seen an Irish Setter for the first time, you might think that it’s just pure red. In reality, the coat of an Irish Setter can have various shades of red. The coat might be a deep chestnut color or even have mahogany-colored coats. Regardless of the shade, one thing is sure – its beauty will blind you!
Irish Setters Love Human Company
One of the facts about Irish Setters that makes them unique is their love for human company. They are very attached to their owners and love spending time with them. An Irish Setter is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a dog that will be your best friend. When left alone, Irish Setters can become destructive. They get bored easily and need to be around people to stay happy. So it might be the right breed for you if you travel more often since you can’t leave them behind for long periods.
These Breeds Are Cat Friendly
If you have a cat, don’t worry – an Irish Setter will get along with them just fine. In fact, these dogs are known for being friendly with cats and other animals. One of the facts about Irish Setters makes them perfect for families with multiple pets.
They Need More Food Than Other Breeds
When it comes to food, Irish Setters need more than other dog breeds. They require a diet rich in proteins and fats to maintain their high energy levels. You will need to feed them more often than other dogs. As for the feeding schedule, it is best to feed them two or three times a day.
The Irish Setter’s Metabolism Is Typically High
Yes, Irish Setter has a high metabolism. This trait is common in dogs that were bred for hunting. They need a lot of energy to be able to run around all day while they are out on the field. As a result, their metabolism is usually high, and they require more dog food than other dog breeds. Due to their high energy levels, they need a lot of food to maintain weight. If you’re considering getting an Irish Setter, be prepared to spend a little bit more on their food budget.
They Have a Strong Prey Drive with Small Animals
If you have other pets at home, such as birds, you might want to think twice before getting an Irish Setter. These dogs have a strong prey drive and might view small animals as potential prey. Of course, this doesn’t mean that all Irish Setters are bad with other pets. It’s just that they were originally bred as Gundogs, which means they were used for hunting. Even though they make excellent companions and get along with other canines, they are not fond of the presence of smaller animals. Its hunting instincts may get worse, and it might end up hurting your other pets.
Irish Setters Enjoy Life to the Fullest
Irish Setters are one of the most cheerful dog breeds out there. They love life and enjoy every moment to the fullest. An Irish Setter is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a dog that will make your life more fun and exciting. These dogs are also very friendly and outgoing, making them great companions. Irish Setter has lots of energy and loves to play. They are also very affectionate and will shower you with kisses and cuddles. So an Irish Setter is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a dog that will make your life more enjoyable!
They Can Be Stubborn, Independent, Intelligent, And Mischievous
One of the facts about Irish Setters that make them unique is their stubborn, independent, and intelligent personality. They are also mischievous, which means they can be a handful to deal with at times. These dog breeds are full of character and are always up for a good time. However, their independent and stubborn nature can make them challenging to train.
But an Irish Setter can be a great addition to your family if you’re up for the challenge. Just be prepared to put in the work required to train them properly. And once you do, you’ll have a loyal and obedient companion for life.
Irish Setter Are Good With KidsÂ
An Irish Setter is a great choice if you have kids at home. These dogs are known for being patient and tolerant with children. They also have a lot of energy, so they can keep up with the kids. Just make sure to supervise them when they’re around smaller children, as their prey drive might get the better of them.
Proper socialization is also vital to ensure that your Irish Setter gets along with other kids. But overall, these dogs are good with children and make great family pets.
The Irish Setter Encompasses Both Working and Show Dogs
Irish setters who participate in dog shows frequently vary from those trained for hunting, although being the same breed. The show setters are bred to have a more slender head, longer legs, and a silky coat. As family pets, they might be less active but are no couch potatoes, as they still need daily exercise.
These Breeds are ChampionsÂ
Elcho was the first Irish Setter to win a championship in Us. Charles H. Turner introduced the dog to The Us in 1870. That’s when the Irish Setter became prevalent in the United States. Elcho’s success resulted in its siring 197 pups during the course of his life, considerably contributing to the spread of the Irish Setter breed across the nation.
Irish Setter Have Been Used as a Logo and Mascot
You might not know this, but the Irish Setter has been used as a logo and mascot in a bus company. Greyhound Lines and its logo are associated with America, whereas Bus Eireann (Irish Bus) is associated with Ireland and contains an Irish Setter mascot. According to the corporation, Bus Eireann’s dog logo depicts the “fast, friendly, and reliable ways for which the company wants to offer its clients.”
Many U.S. Presidents Owned the Irish Setter
During their time in the White House, at least 3 American presidents have been known for keeping Irish Setters. Richard Nixon’s beloved King Timahoe, commonly known as Tim, was perhaps the most renowned Irish Setter in the White House. He was only among the Nixon family’s many dogs of varied kinds. Then there was Peggy, Ronald Reagan owned, and Mike, Harry Truman.
Big Red-Disney Movie Talks About Irish Setter
Have you watched the Disney movie Big Red? If you haven’t, it’s a story about an Irish Setter who befriends a young boy. The film was inspired by the real-life events of author Jim Kjelgaard and his dog, Danny. While the movie is not historically accurate, it’s still entertaining to watch.
Cesar Millan Had an Irish Setter as His First Dog
If you’re a fan of Cesar Millan, then you know he is the famous dog trainer who appeared on National Geographic’s The Dog Whisperer. You might not know that his first dog was an Irish Setter. His name was Saluki, and Cesar got him when he was young.
An Irish Setter inspired one Beach Boys Hit Song
Carl Wilson, the late Beach Boys vocalist, and guitarist, had an Irish Setter called Shannon during the band’s peak. However, Shannon passed away in the mid-to-late 1970s. Later on, Henry Gross, a singer-songwriter, wrote a song about the dog’s death called “Shannon.” Gross’ hit song “Shannon” won gold in Canada and the United States.
The Irish Setter Is Pace University’s Mascot
The Setters are the mascot for Pace University’s numerous sports teams. Certainly, Irish Setters, Red-and-White Setters, Gordon Setters, and English Setters are included in that catch-all category. However, T-Bone, the university’s strong dog mascot, is an indeed Irish setter.
Irish Setter Frequently Asked Questions
Mentioned above are some facts about Irish Setters that you might not have known. Now let’s get to know this breed a little better with this list of frequently asked questions.
What are the Irish Setter’s personality and temperament like?
The Irish Setter is an affectionate, high-spirited dog that loves to play. They are typically good with children and make great family pets. These dogs are also known for their hunting skills and love to run and fetch. They are active dogs that need lots of exercises and can be a bit too hyper for some people. Some common personality traits include being friendly, outgoing, and playful.
Are Irish setters dog breeds hypoallergenic?
No! Irish Setters are not hypoallergenic. However, they have a very dense coat of fur that can be difficult to take care of. You must brush them often and give them regular baths to prevent their fur from getting matted.
What is the average lifespan of an Irish Setter?
The average lifespan of an Irish Setter is about 12 years. However, some have been known to live up to 15 years. These dog breeds are susceptible to health problems such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cancer. But with the right care and diet, your Irish Setter can have a long and healthy life.
Do Irish Setters make excellent guard dogs?
No, Irish Setter is not a good guard dog. They are too friendly and outgoing for that. However, they are excellent watchdogs because they will bark when strangers come around. Just don’t expect them to do any actual guarding!
Do Irish Setters shed a lot?
Yes, Irish Setters do shed a lot. They have a double coat of fur that sheds year-round. You must brush them often to prevent their fur from getting everywhere. If you’re someone who doesn’t like dog hair, then this breed is not for you!
How do I find a trustworthy Irish Setter breeder?
If you’re interested in getting an Irish Setter, you need to find a reputable breeder. It is not a breed you want from a pet store or shelter. You can ask your vet for recommendations or look for breeders online. Be sure to do your research before committing to any purchase!
What’s the difference between an Irish Setter and a Red Setter?
The main difference between an Irish Setter and a Red Setter is the color of their fur. Irish Setters have red fur, while Red Setters can be any color except red. Other than that, these two breeds are very similar in terms of personality and temperament.
Is it possible to live in an apartment with an Irish Setter?
Unfortunately, no. Irish Setters are not a good breed for apartment living. They need lots of space to run and play. If you live in an apartment, you’ll need to take them out for long walks or runs several times a day. Otherwise, they will become restless and destructive.
How much exercise does an Irish Setter need?
Irish Setters need at least 2 hours of exercise per day. It can be in the form of walks, runs, or playing fetch. They are a very active breed and need to burn off all that energy somehow! If you don’t have the time to exercise them, then this breed is not for you.
Are Irish Setters a good breed for first-time pet parents?
Irish Setters are high-energy dogs that need lots of exercises. So if you’re a first-time pet parent ready to commit to that, then yes! They are also very friendly and outgoing, making great family pets. Just be sure to do your research before getting one.
Do Irish Setters bark a lot?
No, Irish Setters don’t bark a lot. But they bark when strangers come around, making them good watchdogs. These breeds are known for being vocal dogs, so you can expect them to bark when they’re excited or happy. But overall, they’re not a yappy breed.
What is the best way to train an Irish Setter?
Irish Setters are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. However, they do need lots of patience and positive reinforcement. They respond well to treats and praise, so be sure to use those as rewards when training them. Also, give them plenty of exercise so they’re not too restless.
Do Irish Setters like to cuddle?
Yes, Irish Setters love to cuddle! They are a very affectionate breed that loves being around people. They will often lean against you or sit on your lap when they want some attention. If you’re looking for a cuddly dog, then Irish Setters are definitely the breed for you!
What should I look for in an Irish Setter puppy to determine the best one?
When looking for an Irish Setter puppy, you should pay attention to their energy level. This breed is very active, so you want a puppy full of energy. You should also look for a pup that is friendly and outgoing. And lastly, make sure to find a reputable breeder who can provide you with health clearances.
Final Thoughts
I hope these faqs and facts have helped you in your decision! To sum it up, Irish Setters are a great breed for people looking for an active and friendly dog. They make great family pets and love to cuddle. Just be sure to do your research before getting one and be prepared to commit to their exercise needs.
