The gorgeous Irish Red Setter breed is renowned for its rich mahogany coat and amiable disposition. These dogs are energetic and vivacious in addition to being stunning. They thrive in active environments where they can run and play because they were originally bred for hunting. They are great companions for both families and outdoor enthusiasts because of their playful nature.
Because of this breed’s intelligence and eagerness to please, training them can be fun. To keep them happy, though, they need regular exercise and mental stimulation. If they don’t have enough to do, they might get bored and start acting out. Their active nature can be satisfied with playtime, walks on a regular basis, and even agility training.
- General characteristics of the Irish Red Setter breed
- Pros
- Disadvantages
- History of the origin of the Irish Setter breed
- Description of appearance
- Head
- Body
- Limbs
- Coat and color of Irish Setters
- Faults and disqualifying defects
- Character of Irish Setters
- Features of education and training of Irish setters
- Grooming
- Nutrition
- Health
- How to buy an Irish Setter puppy
- Video on the topic
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General characteristics of the Irish Red Setter breed
The nation of origin is connected to the name Irish Setter. One of Ireland’s national breeds is this one. The preferred color of the coat is indicated by the word "red" in the name. The breed’s distinctive features—bright red, thick, slightly wavy, and shiny—set it apart from other setters.
Irish Setters are well-liked due to their social nature, amiability, and adeptness in the outdoors. This dog is happy, energetic, gregarious, and affectionate. She is a hunter for all places. She locates prey with ease and establishes a position because of her acute sense of smell. She then locates the injured game wherever she swims.
However, Irish setters are now more frequently kept as companions, family dogs, and even psychotherapists. Irish people are calming and stress-relieving. They are frequently utilized in canisterpia for elderly and disabled residents. These dogs are also capable of being athletes; they run fast and are tough and agile.
Parameters | Characteristic |
---|---|
The name of the breed | Irish red setter (English. Irish Red Setter) |
country | Ireland |
Classification Group of MKF classification | cops, Section of English and Irish Pointers and Setterers |
Application | Hunting girlfriend, companion |
Life expectancy | 12-15 years |
height | male 58-67 cm, bitches 55-62 cm |
weight | male 32 kg, bitches 27 kg |
Features of character | Friendly, sociable, cheerful, devoted |
aggression | Low |
activity | High |
intelligence | standard, but difficult to train |
care | special grooming is required, although it sinks slightly |
health | Good |
Pros
Irish setters are big dogs, but they typically live in apartments in cities. As long as they get enough exercise and go for walks, they are modest and behave well at home. The following benefits apply to these canines:
- have an attractive appearance;
- sociable, cheerful;
- friendly, does not show aggression;
- love children, can be a nanny;
- get along well with other pets;
- hardy, energetic, hard-working;
- have developed hunting qualities;
- their fur almost does not shed, does not smell;
- good health and long lifespan.
Disadvantages
Due to their high level of socializing, Irish setters are not a good breed for people who travel frequently. These dogs require a lot of care, as well as lengthy walks and exercise. It’s also preferable for homebodies and sedentary individuals to forgo getting a setter. There are a few more drawbacks for these dogs:
- not suitable for guarding and protection;
- puppies are hyperactive, mature slowly, so there are difficulties with education;
- do not tolerate loneliness;
- can be stubborn and willful;
- can run away on the street;
- love water, swim even in puddles.
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Irish Red Setter in video.
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History of the origin of the Irish Setter breed
There is no trustworthy source available to scientists regarding the history of this breed’s origin. These shaggy dogs were used in the fifteenth century by English aristocracy to hunt game with guns. Then, because of their propensity to take a unique stance in the presence of prey, they were all dubbed setters.
The 17th century saw a particular rise in the popularity of these dogs. Red and white were the colors of Irish Setters at that time. They stood out from monochromatic dogs thanks to their ability to stand out against lush foliage and be easily identified from foxes and other wild animals. However, the primary focus of breeders was on functional traits when breeding. The selection process is thought to have included pointers, bloodhounds, English setters, water spaniels, and even wolfhounds, according to researchers.
This breed was used for hunting less frequently at the end of the eighteenth century. Breeders started to focus more on the outside of their dogs and attempted to produce canines with vivid red coats. By the middle of the 19th century, the breed had finally taken on its current form. Clubs started to form, and exhibitions were planned.
After the standard was accepted in 1885, the breed was dubbed the Irish Setter. Working and exhibition lines were separated. The hair of the second variety is longer and more opulent. Show dogs were bred in the USA, where the outside received more attention. The breed has been recognized in Russia since the early 1900s. More emphasis was placed on working and hunting qualities in breeding.
Description of appearance
Irish setters can reach a height of 67 cm. In contrast to other large canines, they have a graceful, less muscular body type. Irish Setters typically weigh between 27 and 32 kg. These dogs have a pleasing appearance and a proportionate build. Due to their elegant, shimmering red coat, arrogant stance, and wise, happy expression on their muzzle, Irish Red Setters are frequently featured in commercials and motion pictures.
Head
The muzzle is long and nearly square at the end, while the head is narrow. It is easy to see the superciliary arches and occipital protuberance. The stop is well defined, and the forehead is convex. The bite is scissor-shaped, and the jaws are powerful. The lips are plump, well-pigmented, and not drooping. The nose has a straight bridge and wide nostrils. The lobes of the nose are dark brown or black in color.
The almond-shaped, medium-sized eyes are shallowly set. The eyelids are dry, black, and have a tight fit. The iris has a light or dark brown color. The expression is cheery, inquisitive, and amiable. Small, dangling, low, and far back are the ears. Their long hair covers them, and they feel soft to the touch.
Body
A medium-length neck with exquisite arches. Rectangular-shaped body that is marginally longer at the withers than tall. Modestly tucked in belly, chest deep but not wide. Straight back and arched loins. Rather long, tail set low. tapering towards the tip, thick at the base. long hair covering her. Never held aloft, either saber-shaped or straight.
Limbs
Legs are long, muscular, and even. Elbows are low and pointing backward, shoulder blades are long, and forelimbs are parallel. Strong hind limbs and low, well-defined hock joints are a feature. Paws are small and rounded. Light, bouncy movements are accompanied by a strong push from the hind legs. The dog gallops off, carries its head proudly, and runs fast.
Coat and color of Irish Setters
Medium-length coat. Dense on the body, short and close-fitting on the head and front surface of the paws. The belly is longer on the ears, and the fringe occasionally reaches the chest. long hair tufts between the toes, forming feathering on the tail and front limbs. The coat is shiny, silky, smooth, and occasionally wavy. The composition is similar to human hair. The expression of the undercoat is flimsy.
The color red is the standard color, and exhibition individuals have a higher intensity of this color. The coat of an Irish Setter can be red or chestnut in color. On the forehead, muzzle, or chest, tiny white markings are acceptable.
The description of these dogs’ appearance is enhanced by photos:
Faults and disqualifying defects
The breed characteristics are spelled out in detail in the standard. It is forbidden to breed or exhibit a dog that deviates from it. The following flaws are not acceptable:
- wide head:
- long hair;
- pronounced curls;
- black color;
- large white spots on the body;
- small or close-set eyes;
- depigmented nose.
Character of Irish Setters
The Irish Setter has no aggression at all. He won’t be able to work as a security or guard. He is amiable and friendly even with strangers. Plays well with other dogs and never gets into fights with them. Irish Setters are calm with small pets, even though they are a hunting breed. They coexist in harmony with cats and even birds in the same home.
All people are loved by Irish Red Setters. Since they are in constant communication, the dog will follow its owner everywhere and be eager to get involved in all of his activities. He will quietly but obstinately demand affection, contact, and attention. He is the kind of person who will shower someone with hugs and kisses whenever it is convenient.
This breed’s representatives develop strong bonds with all members of the family, including pets that live in the same home as them. They forgive children’s antics because they adore them so much. They are patient and indulgent with them. However, it is preferable to avoid leaving this big, energetic dog alone with kids as it may unintentionally push or crush them.
Irish setters’ primary character traits are:
- friendliness;
- communication;
- emotionality;
- curiosity;
- loyalty;
- energy;
- cheerfulness;
- duty;
- temperament;
- cunning;
- independence.
Features of education and training of Irish setters
Irish setters are extremely perceptive canines. They are hardworking and obedient; even a child can get their attention. but only after receiving the right instruction. And issues may arise from this. These dogs are difficult to train because they are self-sufficient, independent, and sometimes stubborn. They take a while to mature; for two to three years, they are mischievous and fidgety puppies.
As a result, perseverance and patience are essential in instruction and training. However, physical punishment and rudeness are not tolerated. Strict training methods are not necessary because the Irish Setter will never attempt to dominate. However, you must find the best strategy and pique the pet’s interest. These dogs have a tendency to be sly, erratic, and to avoid training in various ways.
It is preferable to begin training as soon as feasible. The puppy must first become used to its new name, location, feeding schedule, and toilet. Training ought to be regular and steady. In a single lesson, only one command may be practiced. It is recommended that they be conducted like a game. The primary training technique is affection and praise. Excessive behavior is met with the owner’s disapproval as punishment.
The instructions "stand," "come to me," and "next to me" require extra consideration. You have to make sure the Irish Setter executes them flawlessly and on the first attempt. This will come in handy if the dog chases "prey" around the neighborhood. Important commands to know are "no" and "fu."
A setter needs to be trained for hunting at eight months old. Since these dogs are naturally good hunters, this is not a difficult task. They can be trained to track and take the right position on their own with ease. During the training process, you must teach the dog to locate the killed game and bring it to its owner. Irish Setters are proficient hunters starting at age one. He lacks patience, but he is tough and passionate. OKD and UGS suffice for companions and show dogs; additional training is not required.
The Irish Setter is a modest dog that gets along well in both a private home and an apartment in the city. However, he would much rather live in a house with a plot so that he can run. These dogs require space because they are freedom-loving animals. They will feel depressed because they are crammed into a tiny flat. It is against the law to chain them and even more illegal to keep them in an aviary. This is a companion dog, not a security dog, so he requires ongoing human interaction.
Long walks are necessary for the Irish Setter, regardless of training style. The dog needs to go for walks two or three times a day, lasting at least an hour. It is advised that dogs run, play active games, search, and bring objects in addition to walking.
When its owner goes for a bike ride or jog, the Irish Setter will gladly go with them. As much as you can, take your pet to the water, the forest, and other natural areas. The dog will be able to play and swim there. Furthermore, it is preferable to keep it on a leash when in a city. Like other hunting breed dogs, Irish Setters are capable of chasing both cats and birds.
Grooming
Taking care of these dogs is not hard. But frequent combing is necessary to keep the coat looking lovely. For show pets, professional grooming is advised. There are multiple steps that must be taken.
- 3-4 times a week to comb the coat. You will need a comb with frequent teeth and a brush made of natural bristles. Show dogs, as well as during shedding, need to do this daily.
- It is advisable not to bathe often – several times a year is enough. Frequent washing washes away the protective lubricant and worsens the condition of the coat. Representatives of this breed are clean, their fur does not smell. But show dogs are bathed more often – about 1-2 times a month. Special shampoos and conditioners are used to make the coat more beautiful.
- Show dogs may need a haircut. It is necessary to trim the decorative hair on the stomach, chest, ears. It is better to entrust this to a professional.
- Wash the paws after each walk. To make it easier to maintain cleanliness, it is recommended to trim the hair between the toes. In winter, you need to inspect the pads, if they crack, lubricate them with oil or greasy cream. In dirty weather, it is better to take the dog for a walk in a protective suit.
The Irish Red Setter follows the same other hygienic practices as other dogs. Every week, the ears must be examined, cleaned, and the eyes must be wiped. Ears require particular care because they hang down and have poor ventilation, which frequently leads to otitis. Regular tooth brushing and claw trimming will also be necessary.
Nutrition
The Irish Setter has a modest diet and is not a glutton. It is not prone to gaining weight and will not eat more than it needs. However, members of the breed frequently suffer from allergies, so diet selection must be done with caution. Natural products or dry food can be used for this. The most important thing is to avoid combining these choices and to rarely switch up the menu.
Lean meat, such as offal, makes up the majority of the diet when feeding naturally. It will take about 20 g per kg of the animal’s body weight each day. Setters are fed vegetables, fermented milk products, buckwheat or oatmeal, and meat. A veterinarian’s recommended vitamin and mineral complexes must be added to the food when using this feeding technique.
Food that is premium or super-premium is appropriate for Irish Setters. Large breed dogs who are active should be the target audience. Their protein, fat, and carbohydrate intake is ideal. A lot of breeders select this food:
An Irish Setter’s stature is tall. The bowl needs to be set on a stand so that it doesn’t bend over while being eaten. This will stop intestinal volvulus from developing. It is advised to feed the dog briefly following a walk in order to prevent this kind of pathology. It needs one to two hours to rest after eating.
Health
Irish Setters are known for their excellent health and relatively long lifespans. They live 12–14 years on average, though some of them live very long lives. A pet can live for more than 15 years if given proper care. However, the breed’s members are more vulnerable to other eye conditions and congenital blindness. There are also occasionally these illnesses:
- allergy;
- dermatitis;
- otitis;
- epilepsy;
- hypothyroidism;
- osteosarcoma;
- intestinal volvulus.
How to buy an Irish Setter puppy
You must locate a reputable nursery in order to purchase an Irish Setter puppy. They are widely dispersed, particularly in Moscow where the breed is highly favored. A purebred dog free of genetic diseases is what you get when you purchase from a kennel. Such a dog costs between 20,000 and 30,000 rubles. Representatives of the show class cost more, starting at forty thousand rubles.
Depending on why you are buying, you must select a puppy. It is best to get in touch with a hunting club or a dedicated working dog kennel if an Irish setter is purchased for hunting purposes. Because they have thicker, more opulent fur, males are better suited for exhibitions. Women are more submissive and loving.
Examine all of the paperwork and veterinary certifications, get to know the mother, and familiarize yourself with the conditions of the animal’s care before making a purchase. It is advised to select a playful, energetic puppy. It should have straight limbs, a soft tummy, clear eyes, and smooth, shiny fur.
The picture depicts the puppies’ appearance:
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Video: Irish setters are one such breed.
Watch: Irish Setter video. Price, selection criteria, facts, history, care, and pros and cons
Breed | Irish Red Setter |
Size | Large |
Coat | Long, silky, and red |
Temperament | Friendly and energetic |
Exercise Needs | High; loves to run and play |
Good with Kids | Yes |
Training | Smart, but can be stubborn |
Lifespan | 10-15 years |
Beyond just being a gorgeous breed, the Irish Red Setter is a lively companion that enjoys engagement and exercise. Whether you’re playing fetch or having a nice evening at home, they’re a pleasure to have around thanks to their playful spirit and amiable disposition. These dogs build strong relationships with their families and are renowned for their devotion and affection.
It can be a rewarding and challenging experience to train an Irish Red Setter. Despite their intelligence and desire to please, they require a firm yet gentle touch due to their independent nature. Training these energetic dogs consistently is essential to bringing out their best qualities. You can assist them in developing into well-mannered members of your home if you take the appropriate attitude.
They have generally good health, but like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain ailments. Maintaining your Setter’s health and happiness can be greatly enhanced by routine veterinary examinations and a balanced diet. Grooming also keeps them cozy and helps preserve their gorgeous coat.
All things considered, the Irish Red Setter is a breed that exudes warmth and vitality. This breed can be a great addition to your life if you’re an active person who is prepared to dedicate some time to training and socialization. They are a treasured companion for anyone willing to embrace their vibrant personality because of their love for life and kind disposition.