Overview
The Irish Red and White Setter is a gundog bred to range widely, find game birds by scent and freeze in a point to show the hunter where they hide.
It is closely related in use and temperament to the Irish Setter, but is more often found working in the field, and it makes a loyal companion for active homes.
History
Setting dogs were developed centuries ago to locate game birds, first for hawking and netting and later for the gun. In Ireland, setters were red, red and white, or mostly white, and all were bred together.
When the solid red coat became fashionable in the late 1800s, the red and white dogs almost disappeared, kept alive by a few breeders in remote parts of Ireland. Clergyman Noble Huston, Maureen Cuddy and others led the revival, and from the 1970s numbers slowly recovered. The breed is now recognised by major kennel clubs, though the UK still lists it as a vulnerable native breed.
Appearance
An aristocratic, balanced and powerful dog without coarseness, slightly less racy than the Irish Setter. The coat is white with solid red patches, and the head is carried high when the dog is searching for scent.
Temperament
Friendly, loyal and eager, with a strong natural working instinct. It can take longer to train than some other gundogs, but once trained it is a reliable companion.
It responds best to firm, decisive training that is never harsh.
Care and exercise
This is an active dog that needs plenty of daily exercise and room to run, ideally with real work such as field trials or scent games. The feathered coat needs regular brushing, and the ears should be kept clean.
