What Makes a Red Irish Setter Different? (2025)

The Red Irish Setter is a rare breed, with stunning deep mahogany coloration, playfulness and powerful hunting instincts. Developed in the 18th century in Ireland, this breed was bred as a versatile gun dog, with bird hunting in particular in mind. Irish hunters required a dog that fast, agile, and highly trainable to help them locate and retrieve game birds over rough terrain.

According to The Kennel Club, the Red Irish Setter is not just an exceptional hunting companion but also a devoted and friendly family pet. Their high energy, affectionate nature, and intelligence make them popular among active dog owners.

In pursuit of this goal, a mixture of English Setters, Gordon Setters, Irish Water Spaniels, and Spaniels were crossed to develop the breed over generations. By the early 19th century, the solid red coat of the Irish Setter would become one of the defining characteristics that set it apart from the other setter breeds, which were known to have white markings. These dogs today are not only appreciated for their hunting skills, but also for their loyal disposition and high-energy levels which make them great pets for active families.

💡 Quick Fact About Red Irish Setters

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The Red Irish Setter is known for his vibrant, mahogany-red coat, which comes in deep chestnut to dark copper. This coat was selectively bred so hunters can see the dog from a distance in the Irish countryside. The one feature that distinguishes the Red Irish Setter from the rest of the pack of Setters, in terms of coat types, is its very solid-colored fleecy coat, unlike other Setters that might have white markings and black coats.

Description of the Red Irish Setter Coat:

• Silky & Feathered Texture: Their long fur is feathered at the chest, tail, legs, and ears.
• Water-Resistant & Weatherproof: The coat is designed to repel moisture, which is ideal for outdoor adventures.
• Seasonal Shedding: Moderate shedding throughout the year, but heavier in spring and fall.

Proper care is essential for their Red Irish Setter coat to keep it healthy and shiny, and that includes regular brushing, a balanced diet and shielding from sun exposure.

Yes, Red Irish Setter is known to be a sweet, playful, and social breed, making it a great addition to your family. One of their most notable traits is their friendly temperament, which makes them bond well with their owners, and thus, they fit into households with children and other pets too.

Red Irish Setter Personality Traits:

• 🏡 Faithful & Family-Centered: They do best in homes where they get regular attention.
• 🐶 Cheery & Spirited: They need a lot of playtime to work off all that energy.
• 🧠 Smart & Trainable: They are eager to learn and respond well to positive reinforcement.

In fact, if they are not trained properly, their lively nature could become a nuisance to small children. They need to be well socialized and trained at an early age, so they are well-mannered and know how to play without being wild.

Do Red Irish Setters Get Along With Other Pets?

Yes, Red Irish Setters are friendly by nature, so they do well with other dogs and can even be kept with cats. Their sweet nature makes them excellent members of a multi-pet household, but they require early socialization.

Tips for Socializing a Red Irish Setter with Other Pets:

• Expose them at a young age: Involve them in a variety of different animals from the age of 6–12.
• Use Positive Reinforcement: Give praise or treats for calm and friendly behavior.
• Oversee Initial Meetings: Make introductions safe and gradual

They get along with other pets, but their prey drive is high and they might chase after small furry creatures such as rabbits or birds.

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The long, silky coat of the Red Irish Setter will require frequent maintenance to avoid tangles, mats, and skin problems. If not properly groomed, their feathered fur can trap dirt and debris, resulting in discomfort and irritation.

Red Irish Setter Grooming Guide:

🛁 Brushing: A soft-bristle or slicker brush 3–4 times a week to avoid tangles and remove loose fur
✂️ Trimming: Snipping bouncing bits of fluff between toes, along the floppies on ears and at the end of little ponytails.
🦷 Dental Care: Twice to thrice a week teeth brushing is needed to avoid tartar accumulation and the gum disease.
👂 Ear Cleaning: Their floppy ears trap moisture, which can lead to infections. Clean weekly with the right solution.
🛁 Bathing: You should bathe every 6–8 weeks with a gentle, dog-safe shampoo for optimal shin.

According to Dr. Ross Bernstein, DVM, says regular grooming can prevent common coat-related health problems, such as mats and skin irritation.

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✔️ Vet-backed breed-specific care tips
✔️ Prevent mats, infections, and coat damage
✔️ Simple dashboard to track everything

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Red Irish Setters should have a diet that is rich in nutrients in order to maintain the energy levels, health of the coat, and general well being of the dog. Their activity levels are so high that they need a protein-rich, balanced diet.

Diet Recommendations for Red Irish Setters:

🥩 High-Protein Meals (22–28%) – Builds muscle and endurance.
🐟 Healthy fats (10–15%) – Omega-3 & Omega-6 fatty acids promote a shiny coat and skin health.
🥦 Fruits & Vegetables – Antioxidants and fiber can be found in blueberries, carrots, and sweet potatoes.
💊 Joint Supplements – Glucosamine helps prevent joint issues in larger breeds.

Red Irish Setters shouldn't be fed low-quality kibble containing fillers such as corn, soy, and artificial preservatives, which lead to digestive issues and allergens.

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Red Irish Setters are relatively healthy dog breeds but they are prone to a few genetic conditions.  Early detection and preventative care help reduce health risks and ensure a longer, healthier life.

Common Health Issues in Red Irish Setters

Dr. Chris Wilson, highlighted that the early screenings, proper nutrition and routine checkups can significantly reduce the chances of having these issues.

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1. Are Red Irish Setters good for first-time owners?
Yes, but they require regular training and exercise. They demand an active lifestyle due to their high energy.

2. Do they bark a lot?
Not too much, but they will bark a little when excited or alert. Barking can also be controlled by training.

3. Are they hypoallergenic?
No, they shed year-round. Brushing removes the loose fur on a regular basis.

4. Are they easy to train?
Yes, but they require solid, positive training since they can be independent and playful.

5. How long do they live?
They live 12–15 years with proper care. Vet visits and regular exercise keep them healthy.
 

The Red Irish Setter is a friendly, enthusiastic and clever breed, with its trademark red coat and friendly temperament. With adequate nutrition, exercise, and care, they will continue to be faithful and loving companions for many years.

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