Irish Red and White Setter: Size, Weight & Temperament

The Irish Red and White Setter is friendly, playful and highly people-oriented, more energetic and less evenly tempered than the Irish Setter. It often stays playfully youthful well into old age.

As a bird-hunting pointer it has a strong urge to move and actively seeks game, which should be kept in mind during off-leash time. Without several hours of daily exercise it quickly becomes restless or boisterous indoors.

The silky coat needs regular brushing, especially on the ears, tail and legs, to prevent matting. After outings in the countryside, check the coat for ticks and grass awns.

Common conditions include hip dysplasia and eye problems, and occasionally hypothyroidism. Overall, the breed is considered robust and rarely plagued by serious hereditary diseases.