Irish Red and White Setter — Breed Profile
"Fun-loving, friendly, high-spirited, athletic, eager, rollicking"
Joyful bird dog
At a Glance
Weight
35–60 lbs
Height
22.5–26"
Lifespan
11–15 years
Coat
Medium
Group
Sporting
Origin
Ireland
Breed Traits
Best For
Active families, experienced hunters, rural homes with space, multi-dog households
Not Ideal For
Apartment dwellers, sedentary owners, first-time dog owners without support, those unable to meet high exercise needs
Health Considerations
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, ear infections
Estimated annual vet cost: $500-$1,000
Breed History
Descended from Irish Setters and English Setters, predates the modern Irish Setter, rarer than the all-red cousin, historically favored by working hunters in Ireland
Fun Facts
- More often found as working gun dogs than show dogs
- Stockier and shorter than the Irish Setter cousin
- Virtually identical in temperament to Irish and Gordon Setters but with distinct red-and-white coloring
- Excellent swimmers and natural retrievers
Famous Irish Red and White Setters
Not widely documented in popular culture
Irish Red and White Setter products coming soon.
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