When it comes to dogs, there are few breeds as iconic as the Irish Setter. These beautiful animals have been popular pets for centuries, and their reputation as friendly, loving companions is well deserved. But how much do you really know about Irish Setters? Do you know what they were originally bred for? Or how much do Irish setters shed?
If not, well, this guide is for you! We’re going to take a look at some fascinating facts about Irish Setters that you may not be aware of. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Where Irish Setters Are From
Despite their name, Irish Setters are not actually from Ireland but from the Emerald Isle. They were, however, developed there in the 18th century. This new breed quickly became popular with bird hunters, as they were excellent at finding and setting game birds.
When firearms became more prevalent, the popularity of Irish Setters decreased, as they were no longer needed for hunting purposes. However, they remained popular as pets and show dogs. And in recent years, their popularity has once again begun to rise.
How Much Irish Setters Cost
If you’re thinking of getting an Irish Setter, you might be wondering how much they cost. Well, the price of an Irish Setter puppy can vary depending on several factors, such as the breeder, the lineage of the dog, and whether or not they are show quality.
However, on average, you can expect to pay between $800 and $1,500 for an Irish Setter puppy. They cost more than many other breeds, but they are also a great investment if you are looking for a loyal, loving companion.
Temperament of Irish Setters
Now that you know how much do Irish Setters cost, you might be wondering what their temperament is like. Knowing the temperament of a breed is important, as it can help you decide if they are the right fit for your family. So here are a few things you should know about the temperament of Irish Setters.
➣Lively
One of the first things you should know about Irish Setters is that they are very lively. They are full of energy and love to play. It makes them great companions for active people, but they might not be the best fit for a more sedentary lifestyle.
➣Friendly
Another important thing to know about Irish Setters is that they are very friendly. They love people and enjoy being around them. It makes them great family dogs, as they will get along well with both adults and children.
➣Intelligent
Irish Setters are also very intelligent. They are quick learners and excel at obedience training. It makes them easy to train, but it also means that they need plenty of mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved.
➣Affectionate
You might also be wondering how affectionate Irish Setters are. The answer is very! They love to cuddle and be close to their humans. It makes them great lap dogs, but they also enjoy being close to their family even when they’re not being petted or held.
➣Independent
Although Irish Setters are very affectionate, they are also quite independent. They like to have their own space and are not clinging or needy. This makes them good dogs for people who appreciate a little independence in their pets.
➣Playful
If you’re looking for a playful companion, an Irish Setter is a great choice. They love to play and have a lot of energy. It’s important to make sure they get plenty of exercise, as they can become destructive if they are bored or cooped up.
➣Calm
Despite their high energy levels, Irish Setters can also be quite calm. They are not hyperactive or excitable, and they have a good “off switch” when it’s time to relax. It makes them good dogs for people who want an energetic companion but don’t want a dog that is constantly in motion.
➣Companionable
Irish Setters are also very good companions. They enjoy being around people and get along well with other dogs. It makes them great dogs for people who want a companion to take on walks or hikes or even just to cuddle with on the couch.
➣Protective
Although they are not aggressive, Irish Setters can be protective of their families. They will bark if they sense a threat, and they can make good watchdogs. However, they are not guard dogs, and their friendly nature means that they are just as likely to greet a burglar as they are to bark at them.
Physical Features of Irish Setters
If you haven’t already fallen in love with the Irish Setter’s personality, their physical features might just do the trick. Here are a few things you should know about the physical features of Irish Setters.
◼Size
Irish Setters are medium-sized dogs. They stand between 25 and 27 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 60 and 70 pounds. They are not a small breed, but they are also not a giant breed.
◼Coat
Irish Setters have a long, silky coat that is red or chestnut in color. They do not have an undercoat, which means they do not shed very much. However, their coat does require regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting.
◼Ears
Irish Setters have long, floppy ears that are covered in hair. Their ears are one of the most distinctive features of their appearance, and they are often used as a trademark of the breed.
◼Nose
Irish Setters have a long, narrow nose that is black in color. Their nose is another distinctive feature, and it is one of the things that makes them so recognizable.
◼Eyes
Irish Setters have large, brown eyes that are set wide apart. Their eyes are one of their most expressive features, and they are often said to be the window to their soul.
◼Tail
Irish Setters have a long, straight tail that is covered in hair. Their tail is another trademark feature, and it is often used to identify them.
How Much Irish Setters Shed
One of the most common questions people have about this is how much do Irish setters shed. The answer is not very much! Because they do not have an undercoat, they do not shed very much. However, their coat does require regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting.
If you are looking for a dog that doesn’t shed, the Irish Setter is a great choice. However, if you are looking for a hypoallergenic breed, they are not the right choice for you. Their fur might trigger allergies in some people.
What Colors Irish Setters Come InÂ
You might not know this, but Irish Setters actually come in different colors. Here are three of the most common colors.
1️⃣Red
The most common color of Irish Setter is red. This color can range from light orange to deep red, and it is the color most people think of when they think of this breed.
2️⃣Chestnut
Chestnut is another common color for Irish Setters. This color is similar to red, but it is a little darker. It is also a very popular color for this breed.
3️⃣Mahogany
Mahogany is a dark, reddish-brown color. It is not as common as the other two colors, but it is still a beautiful color for this breed.
Irish Setters With Kids
Considering how much energy Irish Setters have, you might think they would not be good with kids. However, that is not the case! Irish Setters are actually very good with children. They are gentle and loving, and they love to play.
If you have kids and you are looking for a dog, the Irish Setter is a great choice. However, you should always supervise your dog around children, and you should never leave them unattended.
Irish Setters With Other Dogs
Irish Setters are generally good with other dogs. However, they can be a little bit territorial, and they may not do well with dogs that are the same size as them.
If you have another dog, it is important to introduce them slowly and make sure they are supervised when they are together. They might not be best friends, but they should be able to get along.
Irish Setters With Other Pets
Irish Setters are generally good with other pets. However, they may chase smaller animals, such as cats and rabbits. So, if you have other pets, it is important to introduce them slowly and make sure they are supervised when they are together.
You can’t just leave an Irish Setter alone with other pets. You should always supervise them when they are together to make sure everyone is getting along.
Do Irish Setters Need A Lot Of Exercise?
Given that Irish Setters are such high-energy dogs, they need a lot of exercise. If they don’t get enough exercise, they can become bored and destructive. Ideally, you should give your Irish Setter at least one hour of exercise per day. It can be in the form of:
✔Walks
Taking your Irish Setters for a walk is a great way to give them the exercise they need. You should aim for at least one hour per day. If you can’t do that, you should at least try to take them for two or three shorter walks per day.
✔Runs
Irish Setters love to run, so taking them for a run is a great way to give them the exercise they need. If you can’t do an hour, you should at least try to do 30 minutes.
✔Playing
Playing with your Irish Setter is a great way to give them the exercise they need. You can play fetch, tug-of-war, or any other game that they enjoy. Just make sure you are getting them panting and sweating!
✔Fetch
Irish Setters are retrievers, so they love to play fetch. This is a great way to give them the exercise they need. You can play fetch with a ball, frisbee, or anything else that they can carry in their mouth.
✔Tug-Of-War
Tug-of-war is another great game to play with your Irish Setter. It’s a great way to get them panting and sweating. Just make sure you are using a toy that is meant for tugging, such as a rope toy.
How Long Do Irish Setters Live?
Irish Setters typically live for 12-15 years. However, some have been known to live for 20 years or more. It will depend on a number of factors, such as their diet, exercise, and genetics.
Do Irish Setters Have Double Coat?
No, Irish Setters do not have a double coat. They have a single coat that is made up of two layers: the top layer is called the “guard” layer, and the bottom layer is called the “down” layer.
The guard layer is made up of long, coarse hairs, and it protects the down layer from the elements. The down layer is made up of soft, downy hairs, and it provides insulation.
Are Irish Setters Fur Hypoallergenic?
No, Irish Setters are not fur hypoallergenic. They have a double coat of fur, and they shed a lot. So, if you are allergic to dogs, it is probably best to avoid this breed.
Tips to Keep Your Irish Setter Healthy
There are a few things you can do to help your Irish Setter live a long, healthy life:
👍Give Them Enough Exercise
As we mentioned, Irish Setters need a lot of exercise. If they don’t get enough exercise, they can become bored and destructive. So, it is important to give them at least one hour of exercise per day.
👍Feed Them a Healthy Diet
It is also important to feed your Irish Setter a healthy diet. You should avoid feeding them food that is high in fat and calories. Instead, you should focus on feeding them lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
👍Give Them Regular Checkups
Also, you should give your Irish Setter regular checkups. You should take them to the vet at least once a year for a physical exam and vaccinations. That way, you can catch any problems early and get them treated.
👍Avoid Hot Weather
Finally, you should avoid hot weather. Irish Setters are prone to heat stroke, so it is important to keep them cool in the summer months. You can do this by giving them a cool, shady spot to rest in and making sure they have access to plenty of water.
Do Irish Setters Need A Lot Of Grooming?
Irish Setters don’t require a lot of grooming. However, their coat does need to be brushed at least once a week to prevent tangles and matting. They also need to be bathed every few months. Additionally, their nails should be trimmed on a regular basis.
How Much Do Irish Setters Shed?
If you want to know how much do Irish setters shed, they shed a moderate amount. They are considered to be a seasonal shedder, meaning they will shed more in the spring and fall. However, they will shed year-round. You can minimize the amount they shed by brushing them regularly and giving them a bath every few months.
Irish Setter Maintenance Tips
One way to keep your Irish Setter looking and feeling their best is to take good care of them. Here are a few tips on how to do that:
➣Brush Their Coat Regularly
As we mentioned, you should brush their coat at least once a week. This will help to prevent tangles and matting. It will also help to reduce the amount they shed.
➣Bathe Them Every Few Weeks
You should also give your Irish Setter a bath every few weeks. It will help to remove any dirt, debris, and dead skin cells from their coat. And
➣Trim Their Nails Regularly
Another important grooming task is trimming their nails. It should be done every few weeks. If you don’t trim their nails, they can become overgrown and uncomfortable.
➣Give Them Supplements
You should also give your Irish Setter supplements. It is especially important if they are not getting enough nutrients from their diet. Supplements can help to ensure they are getting all the vitamins and minerals they need.
➣Give Them Treats
Finally, you should give your Irish Setter treats. Treats are a great way to show them how much you love them. They can also help to train them and keep them happy and healthy.
Irish Setters’s Behavior Problems
Irish Setters are known to be a bit of a handful. They are high-energy, and they like to jump and run. If they don’t get enough exercise, they can become bored and destructive. That is why it is important to give them at least one hour of exercise per day.
Some other Irish Setters behavior problems include:
❌Barking
One of the most common Irish Setters’s behavior problems is barking. If you find that your dog is barking excessively, you may need to train them to stop.
❌Chewing
Another common problem is chewing. If your dog is chewing on furniture, shoes, or other objects, it is important to redirect their attention to something else. You can do this by giving them a chew toy or bone.
❌Digging
Irish Setters also like to dig. If you find that your dog is digging holes in your yard, it is important to provide them with a designated area to do so. You can do this by creating a sandbox or digging a pit.
❌Jumping
Irish Setters are known for their jumping ability. If you find that your dog is jumping on you or your guests, it is important to train them not to do so. You can do this by teaching them the “sit” and “stay” commands.
❌Pulling on the Leash
If you take your Irish Setter for a walk, they may try to pull on the leash. This is another behavior that can be corrected with training. You can do this by teaching them the “heel” command.
❌Running Away
Lastly, Irish Setters may try to run away. This is usually due to their high energy level. If you find that your dog is running away, it is important to keep them on a leash and to provide them with plenty of exercise.
Are Irish Setters Smart?
One factor that may contribute to Irish Setters behavior problems is their intelligence. Irish Setters are considered to be one of the smartest dog breeds. They are able to learn new commands quickly. However, they can also get bored easily. That is why it is important to give them plenty of mental stimulation.
You can do this by teaching them tricks, playing games with them, and taking them to obedience class. That way, they will be less likely to become bored and destructive.
Do Irish Setters Make Good Service Dog?
Yes, Irish Setters can make good service dogs. They are intelligent and trainable. They are also loyal and devoted to their owners. However, they may not be the best choice for everyone. That is why it is important to do your research before you decide to get a service dog.
Most service dog organizations require that dogs be at least two years old. That way, they can be sure that the dog is fully grown and mature enough to handle the responsibilities of a service dog.
Best Ways to Keep Your Irish Setter Entertained
Like humans, dogs can get bored. If you find that your Irish Setter is starting to act out, it may be because they are bored. There are a few things you can do to keep them entertained:
✔Get Them a Toy
One of the best ways to keep your Irish Setter entertained is to get them a toy. Toys can provide them with mental and physical stimulation. It is important to get them a toy that is specifically designed for dogs. That way, they will be less likely to chew on your belongings.
Some good toy options for Irish Setters include chew toys, Kong toys, and puzzle toys. They can also enjoy playing with a ball or Frisbee. That way, they can get the exercise they need.
✔Take Them for a Walk
Another great way to keep your Irish Setter entertained is to take them for a walk. Walking is a great form of exercise for dogs. It will also allow them to explore their surroundings and get some fresh air.
If you don’t have time to walk your dog, you can also take them to a dog park. Dog parks are a great place for dogs to socialize and play.
✔Give Them a Job
Another way to keep your Irish Setter entertained is to give them a job. That way, they will feel like they have a purpose. You can do this by teaching them tricks or having them help you with chores.
Some of the best jobs for Irish Setters include being a therapy dog, working as a service dog, or being a search and rescue dog. You can also have them compete in agility trials or obedience trials.
✔Play Games with Them
You can also keep your Irish Setter entertained by playing games with them. Games are a great way to bond with your dog. They can also provide them with mental stimulation.
Some of the best games for Irish Setters include fetch, tug-of-war, and hide-and-seek. You can also teach them tricks and have them compete in agility trials.
✔Provide Them with Mental Stimulation
Lastly, you can keep your Irish Setter entertained by providing them with mental stimulation. It can be done by teaching them tricks, playing games with them, and taking them to obedience class.
You can also provide them with mental stimulation by giving them a puzzle toy. Puzzle toys are designed to challenge your dog’s mind. They can help to keep them from getting bored.
Best Food to Feed Your Irish Setters
When it comes to feeding your Irish Setter, you want to make sure you are giving them the best food possible. The best food for an Irish Setter is a high-quality, balanced diet. It means a diet that is high in protein, low in fat, and includes plenty of vegetables and fruits.
You also want to make sure you are feeding your dog the right amount of food. An adult Irish Setter should eat 2-3 cups of food per day. Puppies and young dogs will need more, and older dogs will need less.
When it comes to treats, you want to make sure you are giving them healthy options. Some good treat options for Irish Setters include:
⭐Carrots
Feeding your Irish Setter carrots is a great way to give them a healthy treat. Carrots are low in calories and fat, and they are a good source of fiber.
⭐Green Beans
Green beans are another great treat option for Irish Setters. They are low in calories and fat, and they are a good source of fiber.
⭐Apples
Apples are a great source of vitamins and minerals, and they are also a good source of fiber which is important for Irish Setters.
⭐Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a great treat for Irish Setters. It is low in calories and fat, and it is a good source of fiber. Pumpkin also contains beta-carotene, which is important for vision health.
⭐Chicken
Chicken is a great source of protein, and it is also low in fat. It makes it a great treat option for Irish Setters.
⭐Fish
Fish is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
What to Avoid Feeding Your Irish Setter
There are also some things you should avoid feeding your Irish Setter. Some of these include:
❌Chocolate
One food you should avoid feeding your Irish Setter is chocolate. Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine which is toxic to dogs.
❌Coffee
Another food to avoid feeding your Irish Setter is coffee. Coffee contains caffeine which is also toxic to dogs. It can cause them to become agitated and can even lead to death.
❌Alcohol
You should also avoid giving your Irish Setter alcohol. Alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death in dogs.
❌Xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is often used in sugar-free gum and candy. It is also toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death.
Top Benefits of Owning an Irish Setter
Now that you know how to take care of an Irish Setter, let’s talk about the top benefits of owning one. They are:
👍Loyal Dogs
One of the best things about Irish Setters is that they are loyal dogs. They will always be by your side, no matter what. You can always count on them to be there for you.
👍Friendly Dogs
Another great thing about Irish Setters is that they are friendly dogs. They love to meet new people and make new friends. You will never have to worry about them being aggressive or mean.
👍Affectionate Dogs
Irish Setters are also affectionate dogs. They love to cuddle and be close to their owners. They will always want to be near you, even when you’re not feeling well.
👍Intelligent Dogs
Irish Setters are also intelligent dogs. They are easy to train, and they catch on quickly. You will never have to worry about them being stubborn or disobedient.
👍Playful Dogs
Finally, Irish Setters are playful dogs. They love to play and have fun. You will always have a good time when you’re around them.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the best way to groom an Irish Setter?
The best way to groom an Irish Setter is to brush their coat regularly and give them a bath every few weeks. You should also trim their nails on a regular basis.
2. What’s the best way to train an Irish Setter?
The best way to train an Irish Setter is to use positive reinforcement. This means rewarding them when they do something good. You should also avoid using punishment, as it can make them fearful or anxious.
3. How should I care for an Irish Setter’s coat?
You should brush their coat regularly and give them a bath every few weeks. You should also trim their nails on a regular basis.
4. What are the most common health problems for Irish Setters?
The most common health problems for Irish Setters are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems.
5. Is it necessary to give an Irish Setter supplements?
If they are not getting enough nutrients from their diet, you should give them supplements. This will help to ensure they are getting all the vitamins and minerals they need.
6. Are Irish Setters good with children?
Yes, Irish Setters are good with children. They are friendly and affectionate dogs that love to play. However, you should always supervise them when they are around young children.
7. Do Irish Setters bark a lot?
Yes, Irish Setters do bark a lot. They are known for being very vocal dogs. However, you can train them to stop barking excessively.
8. Can Irish Setters be left alone?
Irish Setters can be left alone for short periods of time. However, they do not like to be left alone for too long. If you must leave them alone, make sure they have plenty of toys and things to keep them busy.
9. Are Irish Setters independent?
No, Irish Setters are not independent. They are very dependent on their owners, and they need a lot of attention.
10. Do Irish Setters like to cuddle?
Yes, Irish Setters love to cuddle. They are affectionate dogs that enjoy being close to their owners.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know Irish Setters better, you can now decide if they are the right breed for you. If you think they are, then go ahead and get one! They will make a great addition to your family. You’ll get all the benefits of owning a loyal, friendly, affectionate, and playful dog. So what are you waiting for? Get an Irish Setter today! For more guides like this, visit our website.
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