Irish Setter
Breed Description

The Irish Setter is also commonly known by several other names that reflect its heritage and characteristics. Most notably, it is often called the Red Setter, highlighting its most distinctive feature - the beautiful, rich mahogany red coat that sets it apart from other setter breeds. In its native Ireland, the breed may be referred to as "Madra Rua," which translates to "red dog" in Gaelic, demonstrating the deep connection between the breed and Irish culture.

Some enthusiasts and breeders may also use the term Irish Red Setter to distinguish it from the Irish Red and White Setter, which is a separate but related breed. Historically, before the solid red coat became the standard, these dogs were sometimes called Irish Red and White Setters when they displayed both colors. However, through selective breeding in the 19th century, the solid red variety became the Irish Setter we know today.

In show rings and official documentation, you might encounter the breed listed simply as "Setter (Irish)" or find it grouped with other setter breeds under the broader category of English, Gordon, and Irish Setters, though each maintains its distinct breed characteristics and standards.

The Irish Setter stands as one of the most recognizable and beloved sporting breeds, embodying elegance, athleticism, and an irrepressible zest for life. This magnificent breed captures hearts not only with its stunning appearance but also with its spirited personality and unwavering loyalty to family. Originally developed in Ireland during the 18th century, the Irish Setter was bred to be the perfect hunting companion, combining stamina, speed, and an exceptional nose for game birds.

The breed's most striking feature is undoubtedly its coat - a flowing, silky mantle of rich mahogany red that seems to catch fire in sunlight. This lustrous coat, while beautiful, requires regular maintenance to preserve its glory. The Irish Setter's build speaks to its athletic heritage: lean yet muscular, with a deep chest that houses powerful lungs, and long legs built for covering ground with graceful efficiency. Males typically stand 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 65-70 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 25 inches and 55-65 pounds.

Beyond physical beauty, the Irish Setter possesses a temperament that has endeared it to families worldwide. These dogs are natural extroverts, approaching life with enthusiasm and joy that is genuinely infectious. They thrive on human companionship and form deep bonds with their families, often following their favorite people from room to room. This devotion, while endearing, means they do not tolerate isolation well and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.

The breed's intelligence shines through in its eagerness to please and quick learning ability, though this is tempered by a somewhat independent streak inherited from its hunting background. Irish Setters respond best to positive reinforcement training methods and benefit from early socialization to help channel their exuberant energy appropriately. Their natural athleticism demands regular, vigorous exercise - a casual walk around the block simply will not suffice for this breed.

Irish Setters excel in various activities beyond their traditional hunting role. They make outstanding therapy dogs due to their gentle nature and intuitive understanding of human emotions. Many also compete successfully in dog sports such as agility, obedience, rally, and field trials. Their natural grace and striking appearance have also made them popular in the show ring, though potential owners should remember that beneath that gorgeous exterior beats the heart of a true athlete.

Families considering an Irish Setter should be prepared for a dog that remains puppy-like in enthusiasm well into adulthood. These dogs typically don't fully mature mentally until they're three or four years old, meaning owners need patience and consistency during the extended adolescent phase. However, those who can provide the exercise, training, and companionship this breed requires will be rewarded with a loyal, affectionate, and endlessly entertaining family member.

The breed's coat serves as both blessing and responsibility. While stunning to behold, it requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles, particularly in the feathering on the legs, chest, and tail. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks helps maintain the coat's health and appearance. Irish Setters are moderate shedders year-round with heavier shedding periods typically occurring twice yearly.

Health-wise, Irish Setters are generally robust dogs, but like all breeds, they have certain genetic predispositions that responsible breeders screen for. Potential owners should seek breeders who perform health testing on breeding stock and provide health clearances for conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and other hereditary conditions that can affect the breed.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

The AKC standard describes the Irish Setter as a medium-sized sporting dog with a substantial yet elegant build. Males should stand 27 inches at the withers and weigh approximately 70 pounds, while females should be 25 inches and weigh around 60 pounds. The coat should be of moderate length and lie flat against the body, with longer feathering on the ears, chest, legs, belly, and tail. The color should be mahogany or rich chestnut red with no black. Small amounts of white on chest, throat, or toes are permissible but not desirable. The head should be long and lean with a well-defined stop, dark to medium brown almond-shaped eyes, and low-set ears. The bite should be scissors or level. The body should be slightly longer than tall with a deep chest, well-sprung ribs, and a firm topline. The tail should be carried horizontally or slightly below and have a strong taper. Movement should be free-flowing and ground-covering with reach and drive. Temperament should be eager, alert, and intelligent with a rollicking personality.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

The FCI standard, which serves as the basis for most international breed standards, emphasizes the Irish Setter's role as a pointing breed with exceptional stamina and speed. The standard calls for a racy, balanced dog that is slightly longer than tall. Height for males should be 58-67 cm (approximately 23-26 inches) and for females 55-62 cm (approximately 22-24 inches). The coat should be short and fine on the head and front of legs, but of moderate length and flat on other parts of the body, with longer silky feathering on the ears, back of legs, belly, and tail. The color should be rich chestnut with no trace of black, though small white markings on chest and throat are acceptable. The head should be long and lean with a pronounced occiput, well-defined stop, and oval-shaped dark hazel to dark brown eyes. Ears should be set low and back. The neck should be moderately long and very muscular. The body should show good depth and spring of rib with a firm, gently sloping topline. The tail should be set on just below the level of the back and carried horizontally. The breed should exhibit an active, aristocratic bearing with tremendous drive and stamina in the field.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The UKC standard emphasizes the Irish Setter's function as a bird-finding, pointing, and retrieving dog that must combine beauty with utility. The standard calls for a dog that is well-balanced and proportioned, giving the impression of capability and strength. Size should be 25-27 inches for males and 24-26 inches for females, with weight proportional to height and bone structure. The coat should be flat and straight with silky texture, short and fine on the head and forelegs, but feathering on the ears, legs, belly, and tail. Color should be mahogany or rich chestnut red without black, though white markings on chest, throat, chin, or toes are acceptable if not excessive. The head should be long and narrow with a well-defined stop, dark eyes, and thin leather ears set well back and low. The body should be slightly longer than tall with deep chest and well-sprung ribs. The tail should be strong at the root with a fine point, carried horizontally or slightly below. Gait should be smooth and efficient with good reach and drive. Temperament should be sweet-tempered, loving, intelligent, and eager to please, with energy and enthusiasm in the field.

Other Organizations

The Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) follows a standard very similar to the AKC, emphasizing the breed's sporting heritage and elegant appearance. The Kennel Club (UK) maintains the original breed standard that emphasizes the Irish Setter's role as a gundog, calling for a demonstration of pace, power, and endurance combined with a kindly expression. Most international organizations that recognize the breed follow standards based on either the AKC or FCI templates, with minor variations in emphasis on certain traits such as coat color intensity or acceptable white markings. All standards agree on the fundamental characteristics: rich red coat, athletic build, friendly temperament, and strong hunting instincts. Regardless of the specific organization, the Irish Setter should always present as a stylish, well-balanced sporting dog capable of working all day in the field while maintaining an aristocratic bearing that makes it equally at home in the show ring or family living room.

The Irish Setter's history is deeply intertwined with the emerald landscapes of Ireland and the sporting traditions of the Irish gentry. While the exact origins remain somewhat mysterious, most historians agree that the breed emerged during the 18th century from careful crosses between various spaniel, pointer, and setter breeds. The goal was to develop the perfect bird dog for the Irish terrain - a dog with exceptional stamina, keen scenting ability, and the size to be easily spotted across the vast Irish countryside.

Early Irish Setters were actually red and white in coloration, similar to today's Irish Red and White Setter, which is now recognized as a separate breed. The transformation to the solid red coat we know today was largely the work of dedicated Irish breeders in the 19th century who selectively bred for the mahogany red coloration that would become the breed's signature. This selective breeding was not merely for aesthetic purposes; the solid red coat provided better visibility in the field, making it easier for hunters to track their dogs across the rolling Irish hills.

One of the most influential early breeders was Jason Hazzard of Timaskea in County Fermanagh, whose kennel produced many of the foundation dogs for the modern Irish Setter. However, it was the Earl of Enniskillen and his family who are often credited with developing the breed into its current form during the early 1800s. Their breeding program focused not only on color but also on enhancing the breed's natural hunting abilities and establishing the elegant, athletic build that characterizes the breed today.

The breed gained significant recognition when champion dogs from Irish kennels began making their mark in field trials and dog shows throughout Britain. The most famous of these early champions was a dog named Palmerston, born in 1862, who became so influential that virtually every modern Irish Setter can trace some lineage back to him. Palmerston was not only successful in the field but also possessed the stunning coat and elegant conformation that would define breed type for generations to come.

Irish Setters arrived in America in the mid-19th century, where they quickly gained popularity among sportsmen and families alike. The breed's beauty and friendly temperament made it a favorite in both the field and the show ring. American breeders continued to refine the breed, often emphasizing coat quality and overall elegance while maintaining the hunting instincts that made the breed famous. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Irish Setter in 1878, making it one of the earlier breeds to gain official recognition.

The 20th century brought both triumph and challenge for the Irish Setter. The breed reached peak popularity in America during the 1960s and 1970s, partly due to popular culture representations and the breed's stunning appearance. However, this popularity led to some unfortunate consequences, including puppy mills and irresponsible breeding that threatened to compromise the breed's temperament and health. Dedicated breeders worked tirelessly to preserve the breed's original characteristics while addressing these challenges.

During this period, some breeders became concerned that the show ring emphasis on coat and beauty was diminishing the breed's working ability. This led to the development of separate lines focused on field work, and today there are distinct differences between show-type Irish Setters and field-bred dogs. Field-type Irish Setters tend to be smaller, with less coat and more intense hunting drive, while show-type dogs emphasize the breed's elegant appearance and gentle temperament.

World War I and II significantly impacted the breed in Europe, where many breeding programs were disrupted or lost entirely. Irish and British breeders worked to rebuild their breeding programs after the wars, often incorporating bloodlines from American kennels that had maintained strong breed populations during the conflict years. This international cooperation helped ensure the breed's survival and continued development.

The modern Irish Setter benefits from over 200 years of careful breeding and selection. Today's breed maintains the essential characteristics that made it famous: exceptional beauty, friendly temperament, and natural hunting ability. While most Irish Setters today serve as beloved family companions rather than working gundogs, many retain strong hunting instincts and excel in various dog sports and activities.

Contemporary breed development focuses on maintaining genetic diversity while preserving breed type and temperament. Responsible breeders utilize health testing to reduce the incidence of hereditary conditions and participate in research studies aimed at improving the breed's long-term health. International cooperation between breeders continues to strengthen the breed worldwide, with regular exchange of bloodlines and breeding information helping to maintain the Irish Setter's status as one of the world's most beloved sporting breeds.

The Irish Setter's journey from working gundog to cherished family companion reflects broader changes in society and our relationship with dogs. While the breed's role may have evolved, its essential character remains unchanged: a beautiful, intelligent, and devoted companion that brings joy and energy to any family lucky enough to share their lives with one of these magnificent dogs.

The Irish Setter was originally developed as the ultimate upland game bird hunting companion, designed to work in the challenging terrain and climate of Ireland. Their primary function was to locate, point, and retrieve game birds such as grouse, pheasant, woodcock, and other upland species. The breed's working style is characterized by wide-ranging searches, covering large areas of ground with tireless enthusiasm while maintaining communication with their hunting partner.

In the field, Irish Setters demonstrate their exceptional scenting ability by detecting bird scent from considerable distances. Once they locate game, they freeze into the classic pointing position - a statuesque pose with head extended, tail straight, and one front paw often lifted. This behavior allows the hunter to approach and prepare for the shot while the dog holds the birds in place. After the shot, the Irish Setter's soft mouth and natural retrieving instinct make them excellent at fetching downed birds without damaging the game.

The breed's coat serves important functional purposes in their working role. The water-resistant outer coat provides protection from harsh weather conditions, while the dense undercoat offers insulation during cold weather hunting. The feathering on the legs and tail helps protect these areas from thorns and rough vegetation, while the sleek coat on the head and ears reduces the accumulation of burrs and debris that could interfere with their work.

Modern Irish Setters continue to excel in hunting roles, though their function has expanded significantly beyond their original purpose. Many serve as family companions while retaining their hunting abilities, participating in weekend hunting trips or organized field trials. Their natural athleticism and trainability have made them successful in various dog sports including agility, rally obedience, tracking, and competitive field trials.

The breed's gentle temperament and intuitive understanding of human emotions have led to their success as therapy dogs in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. Their striking appearance and calm demeanor make them particularly effective in this role, bringing comfort and joy to people in need. Some Irish Setters also work as emotional support animals, providing companionship and stability to individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges.

In search and rescue operations, Irish Setters have proven valuable due to their excellent scenting ability, stamina, and eagerness to work. While not as commonly used as some other breeds in this field, their natural tracking instincts and athleticism make them capable search and rescue partners when properly trained. Their friendly nature also makes them ideal for situations requiring interaction with frightened or traumatized individuals.

The breed's intelligence and eagerness to please have made them successful in competitive obedience and rally sports. While their somewhat independent nature can present training challenges, consistent positive reinforcement methods help them excel in these structured activities. Many Irish Setters earn advanced obedience titles and compete successfully at high levels of competition.

Conservation efforts have found valuable partners in Irish Setters, particularly in wildlife management and bird population studies. Their ability to locate and point birds without disturbing them makes them useful for wildlife surveys and research projects. Some conservation organizations employ Irish Setters to help with bird banding operations and habitat studies.

In the show ring, Irish Setters serve as ambassadors for their breed, demonstrating the beauty and temperament that has made them beloved worldwide. Successful show dogs must exhibit proper breed type, movement, and temperament while maintaining the athletic ability that defines the breed. Many show dogs also participate in performance events, proving that beauty and function can coexist in the modern Irish Setter.

Perhaps most importantly, the vast majority of Irish Setters today function as beloved family companions, bringing joy, energy, and devotion to households around the world. Their function in this role requires them to be adaptable, gentle with children, tolerant of other pets, and responsive to training. While they may never see a game bird, these family Irish Setters still retain the instincts and characteristics that made their ancestors valuable working partners.

The breed's versatility allows them to adapt their function to meet their family's needs, whether that involves being a jogging companion, a competitive sports partner, a gentle therapy dog, or simply a loving family pet. This adaptability, combined with their natural intelligence and eagerness to please, ensures that Irish Setters continue to find meaningful roles in modern society while honoring their heritage as one of the world's finest sporting breeds.

Irish Setters possess a distinctive behavioral profile that reflects their heritage as energetic sporting dogs combined with their development as cherished family companions. Understanding their behavior patterns is crucial for anyone considering adding one of these magnificent dogs to their family, as their needs and characteristics require specific approaches to training, exercise, and daily management.

The most immediately apparent behavioral trait of Irish Setters is their boundless enthusiasm for life. These dogs approach each day with an infectious joy that can be both delightful and overwhelming for unprepared owners. This exuberance manifests in various ways: enthusiastic greetings that may involve jumping, tail wagging that can clear coffee tables, and a general tendency to express emotions physically. This behavior stems from their sporting heritage, where enthusiasm and drive were essential qualities for working dogs.

Their social behavior is characterized by an intense desire for companionship and inclusion in family activities. Irish Setters are not content to be passive observers; they want to be active participants in whatever their family is doing. This can lead to following family members from room to room, attempting to "help" with household tasks, and becoming distressed when excluded from activities. Their social nature makes them poor candidates for homes where they would be left alone for extended periods regularly.

Intelligence is a hallmark of the breed, but it manifests in ways that can sometimes frustrate novice dog owners. Irish Setters are quick learners who can master complex tasks rapidly, but they also possess an independent streak that can make them selective about when to apply their knowledge. They may perfectly execute a command in training class but conveniently "forget" it when distracted by interesting scents or activities. This behavioral pattern requires patient, consistent training approaches that make obedience more rewarding than alternative behaviors.

Their hunting heritage significantly influences their behavioral patterns. Irish Setters possess strong prey drives and may chase small animals, birds, or even moving objects like bicycles or cars if not properly managed. Their excellent scenting ability means they're constantly processing environmental information through their noses, which can lead to distraction during training or walks. This same scenting ability, however, makes them excellent at games like nose work and tracking activities.

Exercise needs profoundly impact Irish Setter behavior. A well-exercised Irish Setter is typically calm, content, and well-behaved in the home. Conversely, an under-exercised Irish Setter may exhibit destructive behaviors, excessive barking, hyperactivity, or difficulty focusing on training. Their exercise requirements go beyond simple walks; they need opportunities to run, explore, and engage in vigorous physical activity. Mental stimulation is equally important, as bored Irish Setters can become creative problem-solvers in ways their owners might not appreciate.

Behavioral maturation in Irish Setters occurs more slowly than in many breeds. While they may reach physical maturity by 18-24 months, mental and emotional maturity often doesn't occur until 3-4 years of age. This extended adolescence means owners need patience and consistency throughout an extended training period. During this time, behaviors may be inconsistent, and dogs may seem to regress in their training periodically.

Their interaction with children deserves special mention, as Irish Setters are generally excellent family dogs when properly socialized. Their playful nature and high energy level make them wonderful companions for active children, but their size and enthusiasm can be overwhelming for very small children. They tend to be gentle and protective of family children while remaining playful and engaging. However, their tendency to use their mouths during play (a trait from their retrieving background) requires early training to ensure appropriate bite inhibition.

Territorial behavior in Irish Setters is typically minimal compared to many breeds. While they may bark to alert their family to visitors, they're more likely to greet strangers with enthusiasm than suspicion once proper introductions are made. This friendly nature makes them poor guard dogs but excellent ambassadors for their breed. Their welcoming attitude toward strangers usually extends to other dogs as well, particularly when they're properly socialized from puppyhood.

Communication patterns in Irish Setters involve a combination of vocalizations, body language, and physical contact. They're moderately vocal dogs who may bark when excited, alert, or seeking attention. Their expressive faces and body language make their emotional states relatively easy to read for attentive owners. They often use physical contact - leaning, pawing, or gentle mouthing - to communicate their needs or desires for attention.

Stress responses in Irish Setters can manifest as increased activity levels, destructive behavior, or withdrawal from social interaction. They're sensitive dogs who respond poorly to harsh training methods or chaotic household environments. Positive reinforcement training methods that build confidence while providing clear boundaries typically yield the best behavioral results with this breed.

Understanding and working with Irish Setter behavior requires patience, consistency, and an appreciation for their spirited nature. Owners who embrace their dog's enthusiasm while providing appropriate outlets for their energy and intelligence will be rewarded with a loyal, affectionate, and well-behaved companion. Those who attempt to suppress their natural behaviors or fail to meet their exercise and mental stimulation needs may find themselves dealing with problematic behaviors that could have been prevented with proper management and training.

Irish Setters integrate into family life with an enthusiasm and devotion that makes them exceptional family companions when their needs are properly understood and met. Their family dynamics are characterized by strong bonds, playful interactions, and an almost intuitive understanding of family routines and emotional rhythms. However, successfully incorporating an Irish Setter into family life requires thoughtful consideration of their unique characteristics and needs.

The bond Irish Setters form with their families is profound and multifaceted. They typically don't show favoritism toward one family member but rather form strong attachments to all family members, often adjusting their behavior to match each person's energy level and preferences. With adults, they may be calm and companionable, while with children, they transform into enthusiastic playmates. This adaptability makes them excellent family dogs, but it also means they suffer significantly when separated from their family unit.

Children and Irish Setters often form particularly special relationships. The breed's patient, gentle nature makes them excellent with children of all ages, though their size and energy level require supervision with very small children. Irish Setters seem to understand the difference between adult and child family members, often displaying more patience and gentleness with children than they might show with adults. They frequently become protective of family children without being aggressive, positioning themselves between their young family members and perceived threats.

The breed's playful nature makes them wonderful companions for active families who enjoy outdoor activities. Irish Setters excel as hiking partners, running companions, and participants in family sports activities. Their stamina and enthusiasm make them ideal for families who spend time camping, hiking, or engaging in other outdoor pursuits. However, their energy level can be challenging for sedentary families or those unable to provide adequate daily exercise.

Within the household hierarchy, Irish Setters typically assume a position of beloved family member rather than dominant leader. They're generally content to follow family routines and rarely challenge family authority when training and boundaries are consistent. Their people-pleasing nature makes them responsive to family rules and expectations, though their intelligence means they may test boundaries periodically to see if rules have changed.

Multi-pet households often work well with Irish Setters, particularly when they're introduced to other pets during puppyhood. Their generally friendly disposition extends to other dogs, cats, and even smaller pets, though their hunting heritage means they may chase small animals if not properly trained. Early socialization and proper introductions are crucial for successful multi-pet dynamics. Many families find that Irish Setters benefit from having another dog companion, as this helps meet their social needs and provides an outlet for their playful energy.

The breed's integration into daily family routines demonstrates their adaptability and intelligence. Irish Setters quickly learn family schedules and often position themselves to participate in or observe family activities. They may wait by the door when it's time for children to come home from school, gather in the kitchen during meal preparation, or settle down for quiet time when the family relaxes in the evening. This integration makes them feel like true family members rather than pets.

Training within the family context requires consistency from all family members. Irish Setters are quick to learn which family members might be more lenient with rules and may adjust their behavior accordingly. Successful families establish consistent rules and expectations that all family members enforce. This consistency helps the dog understand their place in the family structure and reduces confusion or testing behaviors.

The emotional support Irish Setters provide to families is often underestimated. Their intuitive nature allows them to sense when family members are upset, stressed, or in need of comfort. Many families report that their Irish Setter seems to know exactly when someone needs a gentle presence or playful distraction. This emotional intelligence makes them valuable family members during difficult times or major life transitions.

Families considering an Irish Setter should honestly assess their lifestyle and commitment level. These dogs require significant time investments for exercise, training, and companionship. Families who travel frequently or have demanding schedules that leave little time for dog care may find Irish Setter ownership challenging. However, families who can provide the time, energy, and commitment these dogs require often find that Irish Setters become irreplaceable family members who enrich their lives immeasurably.

The breed's longevity means that families should be prepared for a 12-15 year commitment. Irish Setters who are well-cared for often remain active and engaged well into their senior years, continuing to participate in family activities and provide companionship throughout their lives. This long-term relationship allows deep bonds to develop between the dog and all family members, creating memories and experiences that last a lifetime.

Successful Irish Setter families often describe their dogs as integral family members who bring joy, laughter, and unconditional love to their households. While they require significant investment in terms of time, energy, and resources, the rewards of sharing life with an Irish Setter often far exceed the challenges for families who are well-suited to the breed's characteristics and needs.

Irish Setters are generally healthy dogs with a life expectancy of 12-15 years when properly cared for. However, like all purebred dogs, they are predisposed to certain genetic health conditions that potential owners should understand. Responsible breeding practices and proactive health management can significantly reduce the risk of these conditions and help ensure a long, healthy life for Irish Setters.

The breed's overall health profile is quite good compared to many other purebred dogs, partly due to their relatively large gene pool and the efforts of dedicated breeders who prioritize health testing and genetic diversity. Regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, adequate exercise, and preventive health measures form the foundation of maintaining Irish Setter health throughout their lives.

Genetic health testing has become increasingly important in Irish Setter breeding programs. Responsible breeders utilize available health tests to screen breeding dogs for known hereditary conditions, helping to reduce the incidence of these problems in future generations. Potential owners should always ask breeders about health testing results for both parents and request to see documentation of clear health testing before purchasing a puppy.

Environmental factors also play crucial roles in Irish Setter health. Their high exercise requirements mean they need regular, vigorous activity to maintain physical fitness and mental well-being. However, their athletic nature also puts them at higher risk for exercise-related injuries if activities aren't managed appropriately. Young dogs should have their exercise limited until their growth plates close, typically around 18-24 months of age.

Nutritional needs for Irish Setters require careful attention, particularly during their extended growth period. As large, active dogs, they need high-quality nutrition that supports their energy requirements while promoting healthy growth and development. Feeding schedules and portion control are important, as the breed can be prone to bloat if fed large meals or allowed to exercise immediately after eating.

Preventive care for Irish Setters follows standard canine protocols but may require some breed-specific considerations. Their active lifestyle means they may be at higher risk for tick-borne diseases and other parasites encountered in outdoor environments. Regular parasite prevention and thorough tick checks after outdoor activities are essential. Their coat also requires regular grooming to prevent skin problems and to check for any abnormalities.

Mental health is often overlooked but crucial for Irish Setter well-being. Their social nature and intelligence mean they can suffer from anxiety and depression if their emotional needs aren't met. Behavioral problems can sometimes manifest as physical symptoms, making it important to address both physical and mental health needs comprehensively.

If you're looking to adopt an Irish Setter, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Irish Setters waiting for their forever homes.

Due to the changing nature of rescue organizations, please verify website functionality before contacting.