DOGBREEDS

Irish setter

The Irish setter is a hunting dog with baffling work capacity.

Irish setters may not be workhorses, but do not doubt for a second that we are working dogs

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Last updated 2022-12-20

Irish setter

Irish setters may not be workhorses, but do not doubt for a second that we are working dogs. An Irish setter is a true hunting dog. We are of the standing bird dog type, which has an enormous capacity and robustness.

We work for long durations under all kinds of weather conditions, even in freezing temperatures. The breed is even suitable for Nordic landscapes, which are steep, rugged, and cold. The Irish setter can get through most places.

Irish Setters work well as family dogs, as long they get enough exercise. Together with children, we work well, but due to our size, and abrupt movements, we can be a bit much for the youngest.

We are independent, social, eager, impulsive, and harmonious. There is no doubt we have a lot of personality in us, meaning we are eligible for more than just labor.

By the way: did I forget to say that we can be stubborn?

Irish setters are slow to mature, which means that their physical growth normaly outpaces their behavioral development.

Best suited for hunters

In order for us to be happy, we must get an outlet for all the energy that lives in us. As mentioned, an Irish setter has an astonishing work capacity, which we need an outlet for. We are best suited for hunters because then we get to use our deeply rooted instincts.

If you are not a hunter, you live must live an active life with long, varied walks in woodland and fields. We also love running, making us the perfect partner to take with you on a run or bike ride.

And thanks to our impressive strength, we can easily pull the sled, or the owner who is skiing.

This is what an Irish setter sounds like

Few dogs are completely silent, and it's really too much to expect a dog to be quiet at all times. If you are considering becoming an Irish setter owner, you should be prepared for a loud ruckus. Yes, we can bark, loudly too.

How much we bark depends on both the individual's genes and upbringing. Some bark a lot, others bark less.

Here's an example of what it might sound like when an Irish setter chooses to use the vocal cords:

The Irish setter has good health

Most Irish setters are healthy and fast dogs. However, there are examples of some individuals having problems with hip dysplasia, eye disease PRA or abdominal distension.