Irish Setter

• ExerciseVery high

  Thrives with a job, sport or serious daily exercise.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Bloat (GDV) · Progressive retinal atrophy

The Irish Setter is a flame-coated bird dog with movie-star looks and an irrepressible, joyful, puppy-like enthusiasm that lasts for years — it matures slowly and stays boisterous well into adulthood. Friendly, affectionate and outgoing, it makes a wonderful companion for an active family, but it needs a great deal of daily exercise and mental engagement to satisfy its sporting energy, and an under-exercised Irish Setter is a bouncy, mischievous handful. Bright but easily distracted, it responds best to patient, positive, engaging training, and it bonds closely and dislikes being left alone. The long, silky red coat needs brushing several times a week to prevent mats and tangles, plus regular cleaning of the drop ears. Health-wise, buy from a breeder who screens hips and eyes, and be aware of the breed's tendencies: hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, and bloat and gastric torsion — a serious risk in this deep-chested breed, so feed measured meals from a raised bowl and rest after eating. Give an Irish Setter plenty of exercise, patient training and company, guard against bloat, and this exuberant redhead will be a devoted companion for twelve to fifteen years.

• How much exercise does a Irish Setter need?

  Very high. Thrives with a job, sport or serious daily exercise.

• How much grooming does a Irish Setter need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Irish Setter suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Is a Irish Setter a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Irish Setter live?

  12–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Irish Setter?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Bloat (GDV), Progressive retinal atrophy. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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