The Irish Red and White Setter is a hunting dog breed characterized by its elegance and beauty. Its white coat with red spots makes it easily recognizable and it is highly prized for its ability to find and point prey.
General details
The Irish Red and White Setter is a large-sized dog, with a height of 58-67 cm in males and 55-62 cm in females, and a weight ranging from 27 to 32 kg. They have an average life expectancy of 11-12 years. According to the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), it belongs to Group 7 of pointers.
Breed history in brief
The Irish Red and White Setter is a breed of dog that originated in Ireland. It is believed to have been bred around 1800 by Irish hunters who wanted a dog that was capable of working in the more difficult and dense terrain of the region.
The Irish Red and White Setter became popular in the early 20th century in the United Kingdom and then in the United States, where it became a highly valued hunting dog breed. Today, the Irish Red and White Setter is valued as both a hunting and companion dog. It is also used as a therapy and service dog.
Breed characteristics
The Irish Red and White Setter is a medium-large dog, with a muscular and well-proportioned body. Its head is elongated and narrow and the eyes are dark and almond-shaped. The ears are long and hang down, covered with long silky hair.
The coat is of medium length and very soft to the touch, with a silky, glossy texture. The coat color is mainly white with dark red or mahogany spots distributed throughout the body.
In addition to their physical appearance, the Irish Red and White Setter is known for their friendly and energetic personality. They are very intelligent and curious dogs, which makes them excellent training and competition partners. They are also very affectionate and loyal to their family, although they can be reserved with strangers. Because of their energy and need for daily exercise, they are ideal for active, outdoor-loving families.
Common health problems
The Irish Red and White Setter breed can present certain diseases of genetic origin, some of which can be inherited from their progenitors. Some of these diseases include hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, von Willebrand's disease and atopic dermatitis.
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