Irish Setter Guide
The Irish Setter is a large, elegant red Gundog developed for finding game birds. It is energetic, friendly and active, requiring substantial exercise, grooming and training.
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Irish Setter Guide
What it is and what it covers
The Irish Setter is a large Gundog developed in Ireland for hunting and locating game.
Key facts and specifications
The Royal Kennel Club classifies it as large, requiring more than two hours of exercise daily, with a medium coat and grooming more than once a week.
Practical guidance
Provide long walks, scent work, retrieving and training. The feathered coat needs regular brushing and checking after outdoor activity.
Suitability, choices and limitations
It can be an excellent active-family dog★ but is poorly suited to homes unable to provide daily exercise and companionship.
UK-specific considerations
The Royal Kennel Club has breed-specific health requirements and, from January 2025, introduced additional registration conditions concerning CLAD and PRA-rd1 for certain imported or overseas-sired Irish Setters.
Safety, risks and cautions
Secure recall is important because of hunting instincts. Hip, elbow, eye and inherited disease screening should be discussed with breeders.
Choosing and planning for ownership
The Irish Setter is a large, athletic gundog and should be chosen with its need for exercise and companionship in mind. Ask breeders about health screening, family history and temperament. Regular grooming and ear checks should be part of the routine, while recall training and secure management are valuable where the dog is exposed to wildlife or open countryside.