
Sporting Dogs
Irish Red And White Setter
Reviewed to our editorial standards · Updated 2026-06-12
Size
Large
Life Span
10 to 14 years
Weight
50 to 70 pounds
Height
22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder
Breed Group
Sporting Dogs
Adaptability
Friendliness
Trainability
Energy
Health
Intelligence
Irish Red And White Setter — Key Facts
About the Irish Red And White Setter
The Irish Red And White Setter is a large sporting dog known for being deeply loving with its family and outgoing and sociable. With a highly intelligent mind, better suited to homes with outdoor space, the Irish Red And White Setter is manageable for most owners. Typically standing 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 50 to 70 pounds, this breed has a life expectancy of 10 to 14 years, making it a devoted companion for the right family.
Originally classified within the Sporting Dogs group, the Irish Red And White Setter brings a distinct combination of traits that sets it apart. The Irish Red And White Setter is a high-energy breed that thrives with plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Deeply affectionate, the Irish Red And White Setter loves being close to its people and forms strong bonds with every member of the household.
Temperament
The Irish Red And White Setter has a famously warm and sociable temperament that makes it highly attuned to its family's emotions and moods. The Irish Red And White Setter is famously gentle and patient with children of all ages, making it a wonderful family dog. The Irish Red And White Setter tends to love the company of other dogs and typically does well in multi-pet households.
Friendly and open with new people, the Irish Red And White Setter rarely meets a stranger it doesn't like. The Irish Red And White Setter barks at a moderate level — enough to alert you, not enough to disturb the neighbours. The Irish Red And White Setter has a strong urge to explore, so a well-fenced yard and reliable recall training are essential. The Irish Red And White Setter has a moderate prey drive — keep an eye on small animals nearby.
Health & Lifespan
With a life expectancy of 10 to 14 years, the Irish Red And White Setter is a medium-lived breed. The Irish Red And White Setter can be prone to certain hereditary conditions. Responsible breeders will health-test their dogs — always ask for documented clearances.
Common health areas to discuss with your vet include joint health (hip and elbow dysplasia), dental hygiene, eye health, and routine parasite prevention including flea, tick, and heartworm. Weight gain is not a major concern for most Irish Red And White Setters, though a balanced diet and regular exercise are always important. Annual wellness bloodwork — including a complete blood count and biochemistry panel — is recommended from middle age onward to catch conditions like hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and diabetes early. Pet insurance is strongly recommended from puppyhood.
Is this breed right for you?
The Irish Red And White Setter is a good fit for a wide range of owners who can provide an active lifestyle with plenty of outdoor time. A home with outdoor space is strongly preferred.
The Irish Red And White Setter handles alone time well and is less likely to develop separation anxiety. This breed prefers warmer climates and should be protected from extreme cold. The Irish Red And White Setter handles warm weather reasonably well with standard precautions.
In summary, the Irish Red And White Setter is a sociable and loving sporting dogs that fits well into a variety of households. Do thorough research, meet the breed in person if possible, and connect with a reputable breeder or rescue before bringing a Irish Red And White Setter home.
Helpful Tools
Care Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Irish Red And White Setter good with kids?
The Irish Red And White Setter is known for being patient and gentle with children of all ages, making it a popular family choice.
How much exercise does a Irish Red And White Setter need?
The Irish Red And White Setter is a high-energy breed that needs at least 1–2 hours of vigorous exercise every day. Activities like fetch, hiking, and agility are ideal.
Does the Irish Red And White Setter shed a lot?
The Irish Red And White Setter sheds a moderate amount. Regular brushing a few times per week helps manage loose fur.
Own a Irish Red And White Setter?
Track health records, set care reminders, and connect with other Irish Red And White Setter owners in Hushku.



