Breed guide
Meet the Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is a high-spirited gundog known for its red coat and athletic movement. It is best matched with a home that enjoys outdoor activity and has time for training and coat care.
- Size
- Large gundog
- Build
- Lean and athletic
- Coat
- Long red coat with feathering
- Character
- Lively and outgoing
Size and character describe general tendencies. Individuals vary with age, health and background.
Daily life & exercise
Plan active walks, safe exploration and scent or retrieving games. Build activity appropriately for age and teach rest alongside exercise.
Coat, grooming & everyday care
Brush feathering carefully and check for tangles and burrs after outings. Inspect ears, feet and nails and make grooming a relaxed routine.
Training & living together
Reward recall, loose-lead walking and polite greetings. Keep lessons playful but consistent and provide a quiet space away from family bustle.
Your lifestyle matters
Could this breed be right for you?
Use these six points as a starting checklist. The individual dog’s age, health, history and temperament matter as much as its breed.
You can provide active daily outings
Consider whether this fits your normal week, including busy days.
You can provide regular feathering care
Consider whether this fits your normal week, including busy days.
You can provide patient recall training
Consider whether this fits your normal week, including busy days.
You can provide calm greeting practice
Consider whether this fits your normal week, including busy days.
You can provide brain games and exploration
Consider whether this fits your normal week, including busy days.
You can provide time for a lively companion
Consider whether this fits your normal week, including busy days.
A good match also needs realistic costs, suitable housing and a plan for holidays or changes in routine. Meet adult dogs and speak with a responsible breeder or rescue before deciding.
Explore & check the details
Official breed reference · More dogs in this group · Browse all other breeds
This guide describes tendencies, not promises. Ask your veterinarian about care and screening suited to the individual dog.
