Irish Red & White Setter 2025 Guide: Temperament & Care 🐶

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

The Irish Red and White Setter is a rare, refined, and spirited gun dog known for its red patches, elegant feathered coat, and strong work ethic. Originally bred in Ireland to assist hunters, this breed is now appreciated as both a capable sporting dog and a loving family companion. In this full 2025 guide, you’ll learn how to care for, train, and live with the versatile Irish Red and White Setter. 🐾

📜 Breed Origins

This breed predates the solid red Irish Setter and nearly went extinct in the 1800s. Revived in the 20th century by dedicated breeders, the Irish Red and White Setter is now a symbol of sporting grace and history. 🇮🇪

🧠 Temperament & Personality

This breed is cheerful, alert, and people-focused. Common traits include:

• Affectionate: Bonds well with family and children
• Energetic: Needs frequent activity and engagement
• Friendly: Gets along with strangers and other pets
• Trainable: Responds well to consistency and praise

🏡 Ideal Home Environment

This setter thrives in active households that enjoy the outdoors:

• Great for hunters, hikers, or sporty families
• Best with fenced yards and regular activity
• Not suited to apartments or sedentary lifestyles

They need daily stimulation, both mental and physical. 🏡

✂️ Coat Type & Grooming

The coat is medium-length, silky, and feathered on ears, chest, legs, and tail:

• Brushing: 3–4 times per week to prevent mats and tangles
• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks or after outdoor activity
• Trimming: Around feet, ears, and tail as needed
• Ear/Nail Care: Clean ears weekly; trim nails monthly

🏃♂️ Exercise & Enrichment

This is a high-energy working dog that needs a job:

• 90+ minutes of exercise daily—runs, hikes, play, or hunting
• Canine sports like agility, obedience, or field trials
• Scent work, retrieving, or puzzle toys for mental stimulation

Boredom leads to chewing or excessive barking. 🧠

🍗 Nutrition & Feeding

Feed a nutrient-rich, high-activity medium-large breed formula:

• Real animal protein (chicken, duck, or salmon)
• Joint support supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin)
• Omega fatty acids for coat health

Feed twice daily. Build a tailored plan at Ask A Vet. 🍽️

🩺 Common Health Concerns

This is a generally healthy breed, but screen for:

• Hip Dysplasia: Genetic screening in breeding lines is essential
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): Eye exams recommended
• Autoimmune disorders: Occasionally seen—monitor closely

Use Ask A Vet to monitor wellness and prevent issues. 🩺

🎓 Training & Socialization

Irish Setters are eager learners but may be distractible:

• Use food rewards, praise, and fun games
• Early recall and leash work is essential
• Keep sessions short and varied to avoid boredom

🧘♂️ Emotional Needs

This breed thrives on connection and consistency:

• Include them in family life—they dislike being ignored
• Use predictable routines for meals, training, and play
• They need physical affection and social interaction daily

For separation anxiety or behavior advice, visit Ask A Vet. 🧠

🏁 Final Thoughts: Is the Irish Red and White Setter Right for You?

If you're looking for a high-energy, affectionate, and beautiful dog with strong hunting instincts and a heart of gold, the Irish Red and White Setter may be your perfect match. With structure, training, and love, they flourish as companions and field stars. ❤️

Need help planning your Setter’s care? Start a consult at Ask A Vet today!