Irish Red and White Setter

The Irish Red and White Setter is virtually identical in use and temperament to its cousin, the Irish Setter, but is more often found as a working gundog.

Appearance

The coat is long and silky, mostly white, with deep red patches. The dogs range in height from 23 to 27 inches (58-69 cm), and weigh 60 to 70 pounds (27-32 kg).

Temperament

The Red and White can take longer to train than other gundogs, but once trained it is a loyal and reliable companion. Like the Irish Setter, the breed has an enthusiastic zest for life, loves to play, and is excellent with children. Irish Red and White Setters thrive best in active families and require room to romp.

History

Originally all Irish Setters were mostly red, or red and white, but for many years breeders developed only the red varieties. Consequently, the breed came close to extinction. Thanks to the efforts of an early 20th-century Irish clergyman, Noble Huston, the breed was saved. The Irish Red and White Setter has undergone a revival in recent decades and is considered a separate breed by most major kennel clubs. The breed is still in development for the AKC.