Irish Red Setter
Also known as Setter Irlandais Rouge · Irischer Roter Setter · Setter Irlandés Rojo
Ireland, British and Irish Pointers and Setters
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 58–67 cm
- Weight
- 25–32 kg
- Life expectancy
- 11–15 yrs
- Energetic
- Affectionate
- Playful
- Sociable
- Active
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Irish Red Setter
The Irish Red Setter is a gundog from Ireland, developed to range widely over open ground and point or flush game birds. It is a tall, elegant dog with a deep chestnut or mahogany-red coat, a long lean head and feathering on the ears, chest, legs and tail. Today it is as much a family companion and show dog as a working gundog, though it keeps a strong field instinct and plenty of stamina.
Temperament
Friendly, outgoing and spirited, usually keen on people and other dogs. It can stay playful and boisterous well into adulthood and tends to mature slowly. It does not suit being left alone for long periods.
Exercise
Needs substantial daily exercise, ideally including off-lead running in a safe area, plus mental activity. Expect at least one to two hours a day for a fit adult.
Grooming
Silky, flat coat with longer feathering. Brush several times a week to prevent tangles, and trim feathering and check the coat after walks in undergrowth.
Care & wellbeing
Check the long drop ears regularly and keep them clean and dry. Consider breed-appropriate health screening.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 28.5 kg adult- Water
- 1.1 L–1.7 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,380 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Irish Red Setter
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Developed in Ireland as a gundog to find and point game birds in open country. The solid red coat became the fashionable type, and the breed was refined into an elegant, fast-moving field dog that is also kept as a lively family companion.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Ear infections
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scores
- Eye tests
- DNA test for PRA
Not every Irish Red Setter is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 11–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Irish Red Setter right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Irish Red Setter get?
Adult Irish Red Setters typically stand about 58–67 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 25–32 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Irish Red Setters live?
Typically 11–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Irish Red Setter need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Irish Red Setter need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Irish Red Setters easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Irish Red Setters shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Irish Red Setters good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Irish Red Setter live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Irish Red Setters have?
The breed can be prone to bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (pra). Not every Irish Red Setter is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Ireland
- Type
- British and Irish Pointers and Setters
- Internationally recognised
- 1954