IRISH SETTER DOG BREED

Description:

The Irish Setter is just full of life. These animals have a magnificent mind and bring special joy to their owner’s lives. Irish Setters can sometimes be too nervous, but at the same time, this is a very sensitive dog breed. The Irish Setter is very beautiful looking; he is cheerful, light-headed and quite stubborn. This dog loves to be in the limelight. The Irish Setter was officially recognized by the AKC in 1878.

Height: 24-27 inches  Weight: 55-75 pounds  Lifespan: 12-15 years

Characteristics:

Very lively, energetic and impulsive, Irish Setters love to run. Therefore, dogs of this breed require long walks on an everyday basis. But, due to his unpredictable nature, the Irish Setter cannot be trusted without a leash. For this reason, persistent and consistent training is a must. Comparable Breed: The Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever.

Character:

The Irish Setter is a gentle, loving, sensitive breed, which is not suitable for dog breeders with no previous experience. Because of their excessive activity, Irish Setters require constant human attention. Indeed, Setters cannot be left alone for long period of time, as this affects them deeply. If you want your pet to have nice manners, to be restrained and obedient, you will have subject him to strict education.

Coat / Care:

The coat is of medium length and looks like a flowing silk. The standard color of the coat is the mahogany or chestnut bright red. Black is regarded as a defect while white can be allowed. Irish Setters shed moderately. In order to maintain the beauty of the hair and to prevent it from tangling, the Irish Setter needs to be frequently groomed. Bathing is possible only in case of urgent need. In general, the Irish Setter is a very neat breed that is not too demanding in terms of maintenance.

Health Problems:

The Irish Setter is generally healthy dog breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to Hip Dysplasia, Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD), Hypothyroidism, Canine Leukocyte (CAD), Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Epilepsy, Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (HOD), Gastric Torsion (Bloat) and Panosteitis. The Irish Setter has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.

Weight / Height

The male Irish Setter dog breed’s height is around 26 – 27 inches and weighs around 60 and 75 pounds. Female Irish Setter dogs can reach a size from 24 – 26 inches and weighs between 55 and 60 pounds. Male dogs are generally larger than females.

Training:

The Irish Setter’ stubbornness and extreme free-thinking, combined with a high degree of energy require persistence and hard training. Though teaching process can be extremely demanding, consistent effort and patience will ensure a favorable outcome. Dogs of this breed are especially successful in various disciplines, particularly in hunting, and search and rescue.

Activity:

The Irish Setter requires regular exercise. In order to keep your dog calm and healthy, you should stimulate him mentally and physically. In general, the Irish Setter is not suited for apartment living. This dog breed needs plenty of space to roam around and explore.

Photo Credit: Victor Sounds/Flickr; Adam Wyles/Flickr