Irish Setter 2025 Guide: Temperament, Care & Training 🐶

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

The Irish Setter is a striking, sociable, and high-spirited sporting breed known for its flowing red coat and boundless enthusiasm. Originally developed in Ireland for bird hunting, these graceful athletes are now beloved companions in active homes. In this full 2025 breed guide, you'll learn how to raise, train, and care for the radiant Irish Setter. 🐾

📜 Breed Origins

This breed evolved in 18th-century Ireland by crossing English Setters, Pointers, and Irish Spaniels to create a fast, stylish gun dog. The solid red version emerged as the breed standard by the 19th century and remains iconic today. 🇮🇪

🧠 Temperament & Personality

Irish Setters are known for their zest for life and gentle nature. Traits include:

• Playful: Full of energy and affection for everyone
• Social: Loves children, strangers, and other pets
• Smart: Quick to learn but may get distracted
• Joyful: Always enthusiastic and eager to engage

🏡 Ideal Home Environment

This breed flourishes with space, exercise, and companionship:

• Best in homes with large, fenced yards or rural access
• Great for families with kids or active lifestyles
• Thrives with daily structure, training, and socialization

Not ideal for apartment living or low-energy households. 🏡

✂️ Coat Type & Grooming

The Irish Setter’s signature red coat is long, silky, and needs regular care:

• Brushing: 3–4 times per week to prevent mats
• Trimming: Every 6–8 weeks to neaten feet, ears, and feathering
• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks or after outdoor activity
• Ear/Nail Care: Clean ears weekly; trim nails monthly

🏃♂️ Exercise & Enrichment

This breed is high-energy and requires daily outlets:

• 90+ minutes of walks, runs, or play sessions per day
• Agility, obedience, field trials, or scent work
• Training games, fetch, or hide-and-seek indoors

Without stimulation, they may become destructive or overly vocal. 🧠

🍗 Nutrition & Feeding

Feed a high-protein, moderate-fat formula designed for athletic medium-large breeds:

• Real animal proteins (chicken, turkey, fish)
• Joint support and omega-3s for coat and mobility
• Digestive-friendly ingredients with fiber and probiotics

Feed twice daily. Customize a feeding plan with Ask A Vet. 🍽️

🩺 Common Health Concerns

Irish Setters are generally healthy but may be prone to:

• Bloat (GDV): Feed smaller meals and avoid post-meal exercise
• Hip Dysplasia: Monitor joint health in active dogs
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): Genetic screening advised

Track wellness and catch issues early with Ask A Vet. 🩺

🎓 Training & Socialization

Irish Setters are smart and eager to please but can be easily distracted:

• Start early with crate, leash, and recall training
• Use rewards and fun games to keep sessions engaging
• Socialize with dogs, people, and new settings from puppyhood

🧘♂️ Emotional Needs

Setters thrive on companionship and routine:

• Provide daily interaction, affection, and consistency
• Don’t leave them alone for long hours—they can be sensitive
• Rotate toys, training, and play to meet emotional needs

For separation anxiety or stress, consult Ask A Vet. 🧠

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

If you're looking for a joyful, affectionate, and athletic companion with a dazzling coat and warm heart, the Irish Setter may be your perfect match. With regular training, grooming, and love, they’re one of the most charming breeds to welcome into your home. ❤️

Ready to plan care for your Irish Setter? Book a consult at Ask A Vet today!