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Irish Setter

Sporting Group

Energetic, friendly and intelligent

Irish Setter

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Breed Overview

The Irish Setter is a vivacious and affectionate breed that makes a wonderful companion for active individuals and families. Their intelligence, friendliness, and energy require engagement and space to roam, but for the right owner, they offer boundless love and joy. Regular grooming and exercise are essential to keep this breed healthy and happy.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Large
  • Height Males 25-27 inches (63-69 cm), Females 23-25 inches (58-63 cm)
  • Weight Males 65-75 lbs (29-34 kg), Females 55-65 lbs (25-29 kg)
  • Life Span 12-15 years
  • Coat Long, silky, and feathered
  • Color Rich mahogany or chestnut red
  • Grooming Regular brushing and grooming to maintain coat health
  • Temperament Outgoing, playful, and affectionate
  • Energy Level High
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Exercise Requires regular, vigorous exercise
  • Trainability Intelligent and eager to please, but can be distracted
  • Socialization Good with children and other pets; enjoys being part of a family
  • Grooming Regular brushing and grooming to maintain coat health
  • Health Issues Prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, and ear infections
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Excellent. They are affectionate with family members and get along well with children
  • Suitable Living Space Best suited for homes with a yard or access to open spaces for exercise, not ideal for apartment living due to their size and energy level

About the Breed

The Irish Setter is a lively and energetic breed, initially bred for hunting, particularly for setting or locating gamebirds. They are known for their excellent sense of smell and boundless energy.

History of the Breed

Originating in Ireland in the 18th century, Irish Setters were bred from a mix of breeds, possibly including English Setters, Spaniels, and Pointers. They were initially bred for their field abilities, with their stunning red coat becoming prominent later.

Fun Facts About the Irish Setter

What To Expect When Caring For a Irish Setter

Health

Prone to hip dysplasia, bloat (gastric torsion), and ear infections. Regular health screenings and check-ups are recommended.

Grooming

Requires regular brushing to prevent matting in their long, silky coat. Regular ear cleaning is necessary to prevent infections, given their long ears.

Exercise

High exercise needs; require ample daily physical activity and mental stimulation. It is ideal for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities.

Training

Though they are intelligent and responsive to training, they can be easily distracted. Consistency and positive reinforcement techniques are adequate. Early socialization is vital for well-rounded behavior.

Nutrition

Requires a balanced diet appropriate for a large, active breed. Careful monitoring of food intake and meal schedules is essential to prevent bloat and maintain a healthy weight.

Caring for an Irish Setter involves meeting their high exercise, grooming, and social needs. They thrive in environments where they can participate in family activities. With proper care, including regular veterinary visits, suitable nutrition, and sufficient exercise, Irish settlers make enthusiastic and affectionate companions.

Irish Setter Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

Irish Setters, known for their beautiful red coats and playful nature, are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they have predispositions to specific health issues. Awareness of these conditions and conducting recommended tests can help maintain their health.

Description: A hereditary condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, potentially leading to arthritis.

Description: A life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and may twist. This is a concern in deep-chested breeds like the Irish Setter.

Description: Due to their long, floppy ears, they are prone to ear infections.

Description: Including conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts.

Description: A disorder where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones.

Hip Dysplasia

Description: A hereditary condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, potentially leading to arthritis.

Bloat (Gastric Torsion)

Description: A life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and may twist. This is a concern in deep-chested breeds like the Irish Setter.

Ear Infections

Description: Due to their long, floppy ears, they are prone to ear infections.

Eye Problems

Description: Including conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts.

Hypothyroidism

Description: A disorder where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones.

Understanding these common health issues and adhering to the recommended tests and preventive care guidelines can help ensure an Irish Setter's long, healthy life. Collaboration with a veterinarian is critical to developing a health care plan tailored to your dog's needs.

Prescription Medication Assistance for Irish Setters

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Irish Setter?

Caring for an Irish Setter involves various expenses, which can vary depending on location, the dog’s age, health, and personal care choices. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:

A purebred Irish Setter puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$800 - 2000

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Irish Setter enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

High-quality dog food is suitable for a large, active breed.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 900

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for Irish Setters.

Irish Setters require regular grooming due to their long coat.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

Irish Setters require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

Estimated Cost

$300 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$300 - 800

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Irish Setter's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

Your Irish Setter will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$50 - 100

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$2850 - $7000

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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