Irish Red and White Setter

The Irish Red and White Setter is the older of the two Irish setter breeds, with a history in Ireland that dates back to at least the 17th century. These striking bi-colored dogs were highly valued by Irish sportsmen for their exceptional abilities as versatile gundogs. They were bred to work on upland game birds, using their keen noses to locate quarry and then “setting” or pointing to indicate the birds’ presence to the hunter. Their distinctive red and white coat made them easily visible in the field, distinguishing them from the game.

For many years, both red and white and solid red setters were born in the same litters and were considered part of the same Irish Setter family. However, by the late 19th century, the solid red Irish Setter gained immense popularity in the show ring, and the red and white variety became increasingly rare, facing near extinction. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of a few Irish breeders, particularly the Reverend Noble Huston and later Mrs. Maureen Cuddy, who worked to preserve and revive the original red and white type, the breed was saved. The Irish Red and White Setter was officially recognized as a distinct breed separate from the solid red Irish Setter by The Kennel Club (UK) and later by other kennel clubs worldwide, including the American Kennel Club in 2009.

The Irish Red and White Setter is known for its affectionate, courageous, and intelligent temperament. They are typically very good-natured and form strong, loyal bonds with their families, thriving on human companionship and interaction. These setters are generally playful and possess a good deal of energy and enthusiasm, especially when outdoors. While determined and focused when working in the field, they are often gentle and calm in the home environment once their exercise needs are met.

They are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively trainable, though they can also be sensitive and do not respond well to harsh training methods. Early socialization is important to ensure they grow into well-adjusted and confident adults, comfortable around various people and situations. Irish Red and White Setters are generally excellent with children, being patient and playful, and can usually get along well with other dogs, especially if raised with them. They are alert and will bark to announce visitors but are not typically aggressive.

The Irish Red and White Setter has a beautiful, fine, flat, and moderately long single coat (no undercoat) with characteristic silky feathering on the ears, chest, brisket, underside of the thighs, back of all legs, and on the tail. Their coat is always a pearly white base with solid, well-defined patches of rich red (not mahogany as in the solid red Irish Setter).

This elegant coat requires regular grooming to keep it healthy, free from tangles, and looking its best. They are considered average shedders. Brushing two to three times a week with a soft slicker brush or pin brush, along with a comb for the feathered areas, is essential to prevent mats and tangles from forming, especially in the feathering which can easily pick up burrs and debris if working in the field. Occasional trimming, particularly around the feet, ears, and to neaten the feathering, can help maintain a tidy appearance. Baths should be given as needed. Their long, pendulous ears are prone to infections and must be checked and cleaned regularly to ensure good air circulation and prevent moisture buildup. Routine nail trims and dental care are also crucial.

Irish Red and White Setters are energetic and athletic sporting dogs that require a significant amount of daily exercise to maintain their physical fitness and mental well-being. They were bred for long days of active work in the field and possess considerable stamina. This is not a breed suited for a sedentary lifestyle; they thrive on activity and having a purpose.

Aim for at least one to two hours of vigorous activity per day. Excellent exercise options for an Irish Red and White Setter include:

• Long, brisk walks, jogging, or running alongside a bicycle (once fully mature and conditioned), especially in natural environments where they can use their noses.
• Off-leash play in a large, securely fenced area where they can run freely and stretch their legs. Their hunting instincts mean they may follow scents or chase birds if not contained.
• Games of fetch or retrieving, which they typically excel at and love.
• Canine sports such as hunt tests, field trials, agility, obedience, or tracking, which challenge their intelligence and athleticism.
• Hiking in varied terrain.

Without a sufficient outlet for their energy and intelligence, Irish Red and White Setters can become bored, restless, and may develop undesirable behaviors. They are best suited to active individuals or families who can provide them with consistent physical activity, mental challenges, and ideally, opportunities to engage their natural hunting instincts in a controlled manner.

The Irish Red and White Setter is generally considered a healthy breed, particularly due to the careful efforts of breeders during its revival from a small gene pool. However, like all purebred dogs, they can be susceptible to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock. Potential health concerns include:

• Hip Dysplasia: A common concern in many sporting and large breeds, involving malformation of the hip joint. Elbow dysplasia can also occur.
• Canine Leucocyte Adhesion Deficiency (CLAD):** An inherited immune deficiency disorder. DNA testing is available and crucial for breeding stock.
• Von Willebrand’s Disease (vWD):** An inherited bleeding disorder. DNA testing is available.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): An inherited eye condition that can lead to blindness. Specifically, rcd1 and rcd4 forms are known. DNA testing is available.
• Hypothyroidism:** An underactive thyroid gland.
• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus – GDV):** A risk for deep-chested breeds.
• Gluten-Sensitive Enteropathy:** Some lines may show sensitivity to gluten.