In 1862, a puppy was born in Ireland so peculiar-looking that his owner ordered him drowned. Thankfully, a dog fancier intervened, and that rescued pup—named Palmerston—went on to become the most influential Irish Setter in history. His refined features and elegant silhouette shaped the breed we adore today, proving that one person’s ‘misfit’ can become everyone’s ideal companion.
If you’ve ever encountered an Irish Setter, you’ll understand why they’re often called the most beautiful dogs on Earth. That flowing mahogany coat catches every ray of sunlight, and those soulful dark eyes seem to understand everything you’re feeling. But beneath that stunning exterior lies a personality that’s even more captivating—equal parts goofball, athlete, and devoted shadow who’ll follow you from room to room.
The red Irish setter has earned devoted fans across the globe, from working hunters in the Irish countryside to families seeking an active, affectionate companion. They’re the breed that demands you keep up with them rather than the other way around—and that’s precisely what draws people in.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Irish Setter dog breed: their rich history, distinctive temperament, health considerations, and whether this stunning gundog might be the perfect match for your lifestyle. Whether you’re researching your first Irish Setter or simply curious about what makes these red setters so special, you’ll find the answers here.
What You’ll Learn
- Breed history & origin
- Temperament & personality
- Health considerations
- Lifespan & care
- Grooming needs
- Exercise &Training tips
- Costs in Australia
Irish Setter Quick Facts
| Breed Group | Gundog / Sporting |
|---|---|
| Height | Males: 66-70 cm (26-28 in) | Females: 61-65 cm (24-26 in) |
| Weight | Males: 29-34 kg (65-75 lb) | Females: 25-29 kg (55-65 lb) |
| Coat Type | Medium-length, silky with feathering |
| Coat Colour | Rich chestnut to mahogany red |
| Shedding | Moderate, with heavier seasonal shedding |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years (average 12.9 years) |
| Temperament | Affectionate, playful, energetic, friendly |
| Exercise Needs | High – minimum 90-120 minutes daily |
| Good with Children | Yes, best with older children |
| Good with Other Dogs | Generally yes, with proper socialisation |
| Trainability | Intelligent but can be independent; responds well to positive methods |
| Barking Level | Moderate – alerts to visitors |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Origin | Ireland, 18th century |
History and Origin of the Irish Setter
The Irish Setter’s story begins in the rolling hills of 18th-century Ireland, where hunters needed a fast, wide-ranging dog with an exceptional nose. They created this breed by crossing various spaniels, pointers, and other setter types, producing a gundog that could cover vast moorland terrain while locating hidden game birds with remarkable accuracy.
Early Irish Setters looked quite different from today’s dogs—they sported red and white coats and had stockier builds. The shift toward solid red came gradually, with breeders like the Earl of Enniskillen championing all-red dogs from as early as 1812. By the mid-1800s, the preference for that distinctive chestnut-to-mahogany coat had firmly taken hold.
The breed’s name comes from their hunting technique: when they locate game birds hiding in cover, they ‘set’ or crouch low to indicate the quarry’s position, allowing hunters to approach for a clear shot. This instinctive behaviour made them invaluable partners for those hunting grouse, pheasant, and quail across Ireland’s windswept landscapes.
The Irish Red Setter Club in Dublin formalised the breed standard in 1886, establishing guidelines that remain largely unchanged today [1]. Their popularity spread rapidly—first to England, then to America in the early 19th century, and eventually to Australia, where they found enthusiastic admirers among both hunters and families seeking a spirited companion.
Irish Setter Temperament and Personality
Ask any Irish Setter owner to describe their dog’s personality, and ‘clown’ usually appears within the first few sentences. These dogs possess an almost theatrical joie de vivre—they’ll greet visitors with enthusiastic full-body wags, perform spontaneous zoomies across the backyard, and somehow remain puppyish well into adulthood. One breeder I spoke with laughed and said, “My eight-year-old still bounces like he’s just discovered gravity is optional.”
The Irish Setter temperament combines boundless enthusiasm with genuine affection. They’re often called ‘velcro dogs’ because they form such intense bonds with their families—if you’re sitting on the couch, your Irish Setter will be pressed against you. If you’re in the kitchen, they’ll be underfoot. This isn’t neediness so much as deep companionship; these dogs simply prefer being where their people are.
Their hunting heritage means they’re alert and curious, with a strong prey drive that kicks in around smaller animals. As one Melbourne owner discovered, “Our cat and Finn have reached a truce, but the guinea pigs are strictly off-limits during playtime.” This instinct also explains why reliable recall training is essential—an Irish Setter catching an interesting scent can develop remarkably selective hearing.
With children, Irish Setters are typically gentle and patient, though their exuberance can overwhelm toddlers. They’re better suited to families with older children who can match their energy. Regarding other dogs, they’re generally sociable and enjoy canine company, making them good candidates for multi-dog households [2].
Irish Setter Health Considerations
Irish Setters are susceptible to two forms of this inherited eye condition: early-onset rcd-1 and late-onset rcd-4. The rcd-4 form has a 30-40% carrier rate worldwide in Irish Setters [3]. Dogs affected by rcd-1 typically show blindness before age two, while rcd-4 symptoms may not appear until around ten years of age. DNA tests allow breeders to identify carriers and prevent affected puppies from being born.
This life-threatening emergency occurs when the stomach fills with gas and potentially twists. Deep-chested breeds like Irish Setters face higher risk. Symptoms include a distended abdomen, restlessness, drooling, and unsuccessful attempts to vomit. Prevention strategies include feeding smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding exercise immediately after eating, and using slow-feeder bowls [4].
Like many large breeds, Irish Setters can develop this genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t form correctly, leading to arthritis and mobility issues. Reputable breeders screen their breeding dogs and can provide hip scores. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding excessive exercise in puppies helps protect joint health.
Additional conditions to be aware of include hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland), Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency (CLAD)—an inherited immune disorder with DNA testing available—epilepsy, ear infections due to their floppy ears, and a breed-specific gluten intolerance that can cause digestive issues [5]. Work closely with your veterinarian to establish appropriate screening schedules and stay informed about breed-specific concerns through resources like the Irish Setter Club of Victoria.
Irish Setter Lifespan
Irish Setters typically live between 12 and 15 years, which is excellent for a large breed. A 2024 UK study found their average life expectancy to be 12.9 years—slightly above the purebred average of 12.7 years [6].
Several factors influence how long your Irish Setter will be part of your family. Genetics play a significant role—choosing a puppy from health-tested parents gives them a stronger foundation. Nutrition matters too; high-quality food appropriate for their life stage supports overall wellbeing, while obesity places strain on joints and organs.
Exercise keeps Irish Setters physically and mentally healthy, but balance is key—overexerting young dogs can damage developing joints. Regular veterinary checkups catch potential issues early, and keeping vaccinations current protects against preventable diseases. Desexing often extends lifespan by eliminating risks of reproductive cancers.
Perhaps most importantly, Irish Setters thrive on companionship. They don’t do well isolated in backyards or left alone for extended periods. The mental stimulation and emotional bond they receive from being integral family members contributes to both quality and length of life. As one owner put it, “These dogs live for connection—giving them that seems to help them live longer too.”
Grooming Your Irish Setter
That magnificent flowing coat is the Irish Setter’s crowning glory—and yes, it requires regular attention. But don’t let that deter you; with the right routine, grooming becomes quality bonding time rather than a chore.
Coat Care Basics
Irish Setters have a moderately long, silky coat with distinctive feathering on the ears, chest, legs, belly, and tail. Brush thoroughly two to three times weekly using a slicker brush or pin brush, followed by a metal comb to work through any tangles. Pay extra attention to the feathered areas where mats develop most readily. After outdoor adventures, check for debris, grass seeds, and burrs that can hide in that gorgeous coat.
Shedding
Irish Setters shed moderately year-round with heavier seasonal shedding twice yearly. Regular brushing minimises loose hair around your home and keeps the coat healthy. During heavy shedding periods, daily brushing helps manage the volume.
Bathing and Additional Care
Bathe your Irish Setter every four to six weeks or when needed, using dog-specific shampoo and conditioner to maintain coat health. Their long, floppy ears trap moisture and require weekly cleaning to prevent infections—use a soft cotton pad to clean the outer ear but never insert anything into the ear canal. Trim nails regularly (most active dogs need this every few weeks), brush teeth daily if possible, and trim the hair between toe pads to prevent matting and debris collection [7].
Exercise Requirements for Irish Setters
This is where you need complete honesty with yourself. Irish Setters are athletes—they were bred to run across vast moorlands all day, and that stamina hasn’t diminished. If you’re looking for a dog content with a quick stroll around the block, this isn’t your breed.
Adult Irish Setters require a minimum of 90 minutes to two hours of vigorous exercise daily. This isn’t leisurely walking—they need opportunities to run, whether that’s jogging alongside you, playing fetch in a secure area, or hiking through nature reserves. A tired Irish Setter is a well-behaved Irish Setter; an under-exercised one will find creative (often destructive) ways to burn that energy.
Mental stimulation matters as much as physical activity. These intelligent dogs thrive on training challenges, puzzle toys, scent games, and canine sports like agility or flyball. Their hunting heritage means they particularly enjoy activities that engage their nose—hide treats around the garden and watch them light up as they track each one down.
For puppies, exercise needs careful management. Their growing joints can be damaged by excessive running or jumping. Follow the general guideline of five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice daily. A four-month-old puppy should have two 20-minute sessions rather than one long adventure. Swimming provides excellent low-impact exercise for both puppies and adults—and most Irish Setters absolutely love water.
Consider your Australian climate when planning exercise. Schedule activities for cooler morning or evening hours during summer, and always provide access to fresh water and shade. That dark coat absorbs heat, making Irish Setters susceptible to overheating on hot days [8].
Training Your Irish Setter
Irish Setters are intelligent and eager to please—a combination that makes them highly trainable. However, they also possess an independent streak and a puppyish attention span that persists well into adulthood. Success lies in understanding how to work with their nature rather than against it.
Positive reinforcement works brilliantly with this sensitive breed. They respond enthusiastically to treats, praise, and play rewards, but harsh corrections can damage their trust and make them reluctant to engage. As one experienced owner shared, “The moment training stops being fun, my Irish Setter mentally checks out. Keep it playful and you’ll get incredible results.”
Start socialisation early and extensively. Expose your Irish Setter puppy to diverse people, environments, sounds, and experiences during their critical socialisation window (roughly 3-16 weeks). This foundation helps prevent the shyness some individuals develop and builds confidence that lasts a lifetime.
Recall training deserves special focus. That hunting instinct means interesting scents can override good intentions, so practise recall religiously in controlled environments before trusting it off-lead. Many Irish Setter owners find a long training lead invaluable for allowing freedom while maintaining control during this learning period.
Keep training sessions short—10 to 15 minutes is plenty before their attention wanders. End on a positive note, ideally after a successful command, so they associate training with achievement. Consider enrolling in puppy classes not just for structured learning but for the valuable socialisation opportunities. The Irish Setter Club of Victoria and similar organisations often run training days specifically suited to the breed’s needs [9].
Irish Setter Costs in Australia
Understanding the financial commitment helps ensure you can provide for your Irish Setter throughout their life. Beyond the initial purchase price, ongoing costs can add up—knowing what to expect prevents unwelcome surprises.
Puppy Prices
Irish Setter puppies from registered ANKC breeders in Australia typically range from $1,800 to $3,500 AUD. Show-quality puppies from champion lines may exceed $4,000 AUD. This price should include initial vaccinations, microchipping, vet health checks, and registration papers. Reputable Irish Setter breeders conduct genetic testing for conditions like PRA and CLAD, which adds to their costs but protects you from heartache down the track.
Finding Reputable Breeders
Start your search through the Irish Setter Club of Victoria, Irish Setter Association of NSW, or the Setter Club of Queensland. These breed clubs maintain lists of ethical Irish Setter breeders who follow health testing protocols. Dogs Australia (the national kennel council) is another valuable resource for locating registered breeders. Be prepared to join waiting lists—quality breeders don’t have puppies constantly available.
Adoption Option
Irish Setter rescue organisations occasionally have dogs needing homes, typically for adoption fees between $350 and $600 AUD. These fees usually cover desexing, vaccinations, and microchipping. Adult rescues can be wonderful options—you’ll know their temperament, they’re often already trained, and you’re giving a deserving dog a second chance. Contact breed clubs about their rehoming programs or check state rescue organisations.
Ongoing Expenses
Budget approximately $150-$250 monthly for quality food, routine veterinary care, preventatives (flea, tick, heartworm), grooming supplies, and pet insurance. Irish Setters eat more than smaller breeds—expect around $80-$120 monthly on premium food alone. Annual veterinary costs (vaccinations, checkups, dental) typically run $400-$800 outside of unexpected health issues. Pet insurance, highly recommended given potential breed-specific conditions, averages $50-$100 monthly depending on coverage level.
Is an Irish Setter Right for You?
Irish Setters flourish with active individuals or families who genuinely enjoy outdoor pursuits—running, hiking, beach trips, or simply spending hours at the dog park. They suit homes with secure, sizeable yards where they can stretch their legs between formal exercise sessions. Families with older children who can match their energy make excellent homes, as do households where someone is home frequently. They thrive with owners who view training as an ongoing, positive engagement rather than a chore to complete.
You work long hours with no one home during the day—Irish Setters suffer genuine distress when isolated and may develop separation anxiety or destructive behaviours. Apartment living rarely provides sufficient space for their needs. Very young children may be bowled over by their exuberance (though they mean no harm). If you prefer a calm, low-maintenance dog or can’t commit to substantial daily exercise regardless of weather, another breed will make both you and the dog happier.
It’s worth noting that Irish Setters mature slowly—they remain puppyish in behaviour until around three years old, sometimes longer. That extended adolescence is charming to some owners and exhausting to others. Be honest about which camp you fall into.
The Irish Setter is a breed that demands much and gives even more in return. They’re not dogs you can leave in the backyard and visit occasionally—they’re companions who want to share every aspect of your life. That gleaming red coat requires attention, those long legs require serious exercise, and that intelligent mind requires stimulation.
But for those who can meet their needs, Irish Setters offer something extraordinary. They’ll make you laugh with their clownish antics, keep you active with their boundless energy, and love you with a devotion that’s almost palpable. They’re the dogs who press against you on the couch, who greet you at the door like you’ve been gone for years (even if it’s been five minutes), who seem genuinely happy simply because you exist.
If you’re ready for a dog who’ll be your shadow, your exercise partner, and your enthusiastic cheerleader through life’s adventures, the Irish Setter might be exactly who you’ve been looking for. Just ensure you can match their energy—because they’ll certainly match yours.
Frequently Asked Questions About Irish Setters
Are Irish Setters good family dogs?
Yes, Irish Setters make excellent family dogs for active households. They’re affectionate, playful, and typically gentle with children. However, their exuberance suits families with older children best, as they can accidentally knock over toddlers during enthusiastic greetings. They need substantial daily exercise and don’t cope well with being left alone for long periods.
How much exercise does an Irish Setter need?
Adult Irish Setters require 90 minutes to two hours of vigorous exercise daily. This should include opportunities for running, not just walking. They also benefit from mental stimulation through training, puzzle toys, and scent games. An under-exercised Irish Setter often develops behavioural problems.
Are Irish Setters hypoallergenic?
No, Irish Setters are not hypoallergenic. They shed moderately year-round with heavier seasonal shedding. Their long coat requires regular grooming to manage loose hair. People with dog allergies should spend time with Irish Setters before committing to ownership.
What’s the difference between Irish Setters and Irish Red and White Setters?
Irish Setters and Irish Red and White Setters are closely related but distinct breeds. Irish Setters have solid mahogany to chestnut coats, while Irish Red and White Setters have white coats with distinct red patches. Both share similar temperaments and hunting abilities, but the Red and White is slightly more compact.
Do Irish Setters bark a lot?
Irish Setters aren’t typically excessive barkers, but they will alert you to visitors or interesting happenings. Dogs left alone for extended periods or not receiving sufficient exercise may develop nuisance barking. Proper training and adequate physical and mental stimulation minimise unwanted barking behaviour.
- Irish Setter Club of America – History and Breed Standard
- Dogs Australia – Irish Setter Breed Information
- Irish Setter Health Foundation – rcd-4 PRA Research and Carrier Rates
- VCA Animal Hospitals – Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus in Dogs
- UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory – Irish Setter Health Panel
- 2024 UK Canine Lifespan Study – Dog Life Expectancy by Breed
- The Kennel Club UK – Irish Setter Breed Standard and Care Guidelines
- RSPCA Australia – Exercise Guidelines for Dogs
- Irish Setter Club of Victoria – Breed Information and Training Resources