Irish Red and White Setter

Also called Irish Red & White Setter, An Sotar Rua agus Bán, IRWS

Kind, affectionate and dependable, with a lively, determined spirit in the field.

Size	Large
Weight	23 to 32 kg (51 to 71 lb)1
Height	57 to 66 cm (22 to 26 in)males 61 to 66 cm, females 57 to 61 cm2 1
Lifespan	10 to 12 years1
Coat	Flat coat with silky feathering
Origin	Ireland.2 1
Group	FCI group 7

Recognised breedShort profile

friendly and good-natured

clever and easy to train

keen working gundog

2 1

Personality what they are like

Kind, affectionate and dependable, with a lively, determined spirit in the field. It is bright and learns well with clear, gentle training.2 1

Coat and looks how to spot one

flat coat with silky feathering

An athletic, well-balanced setter, a little stockier than the solid red Irish Setter. Hair is short and flat on the head and front of the legs, with long silky fringes on the ears, backs of the legs, chest, belly and tail. A slight wave is fine but not a curl.2 1

Colourspearly white base with solid deep-red patches; light flecking allowed on face, feet and lower legs2 1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for an Irish Red and White Setter. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High. A working gundog with lots of stamina that needs plenty of daily exercise and enjoys fieldwork or scent-based activities.1 2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Brush a few times a week, paying attention to the feathering on ears, legs and tail to keep it tangle-free.2 1

Home where they are happiest

Happiest in an active home with room to run and regular access to open country.1 2

Company who they like around

A devoted family dog described as friendly towards people; it enjoys being part of household life as well as working in the field.2 1

The story where it all began

The red and white setter is thought to be the older of Ireland's two setter types, dating to around the late 1600s. It almost disappeared in the 1800s as the solid red Irish Setter took over, until enthusiasts led by Rev. Noble Huston revived it after 1920. A breed society formed in 1981 helped it gain national and international recognition.2 1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Setters were bred to find game birds by scent and then freeze, or 'set', to show the hunter where they were.1
2
Much of today's breed traces back to one puppy, Judith Cunningham of Knockalla, nursed back to strength by breeder Maureen Cuddy in 1940.1
3
The FCI standard says judges should assess the breed mainly from a working point of view.2
4
Its red patches are often compared to the colour of a freshly opened chestnut.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name comes from its distinctive coat pattern of solid red patches on a pearly white base, and from its function as a 'setter', a dog that freezes or 'sets' on point when it locates game birds.3

Famous ones stars of the breed

Judith Cunningham of Knockalla A sick female puppy rehabilitated in 1940 that likely appears in the ancestry of all modern Irish Red and White Setters.4

Name ideas for your new friend

FinnCloverRustyShamrockDaisyMurphyRosieSeamusBlazeNiamhCopperPaddy

A day in the life told by an Irish Red and White Setter

I woke up with the sun streaming through the window and couldn't wait to start the day. After a quick breakfast, my human and I headed to the big field where I could run free. I sniffed every clover patch and chased imaginary rabbits through the tall grass. Later, we played fetch with a tennis ball, and I never got tired of bringing it back. On the way home, I trotted proudly beside my human, my tail waving like a flag. In the evening, I rested my head on her lap while she told me stories, feeling perfectly content.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard no. 330, Group 7 Pointing dogs, Section 2 British and Irish pointers and setters (with working trial); standard dated 15.06.2005.2
AKC: Sporting Group; recognised 1 January 2009 (per Wikipedia).1
The Royal Kennel Club: Gundog group; listed as a vulnerable native breed (per Wikipedia).1

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Frozen Yoghurt & Berry Kong Stuffing

A cooling, low-calorie treat that’s perfect for large dogs who love to lick and work for their food. Blueberries provide antioxidants, and plain yoghurt is gentle on the stomach.

You need

120g plain Greek yoghurt (unsweetened, no additives)
50g fresh or frozen blueberries (chopped if large)

How

Mix the yoghurt and blueberries together in a small bowl.
Spoon the mixture into a Kong or similar treat-dispensing toy.
Place the stuffed Kong upright in a cup or on a tray in the freezer.
Freeze for at least 3-4 hours or until solid.
Give to your dog as a supervised treat.

How much: One stuffed Kong per day for a large/giant dog, reducing their dinner portion accordingly.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Irish Red and White Setter, and at what times?

Feed your Irish Red and White Setter at least two meals a day for adults, and puppies need three to four smaller meals. Stick to regular times each day to help digestion. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.5

What should an Irish Red and White Setter eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suitable for its age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always consult your vet for specific dietary advice.6

How often should I bathe an Irish Red and White Setter?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests bathing every 8 weeks, while general guidance recommends at least every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets dirty or has skin issues, using a dog-specific shampoo. Always check with your groomer or vet for your dog's needs.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does an Irish Red and White Setter need brushing?

Brush your Irish Red and White Setter a few times a week, and daily is ideal for its long silky coat to prevent tangles. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests weekly brushing, but pay extra attention to the feathering on ears, legs, and tail. Regular brushing keeps the coat healthy and reduces shedding.2 1 7 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim an Irish Red and White Setter's nails, and how often?

Trim nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, about every 4 weeks. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part) to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer to show you the proper technique.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does an Irish Red and White Setter need?

This breed has high exercise needs and plenty of stamina, so provide daily walks, playtime, and ideally access to open country for running. Scent-based activities like fieldwork are wonderful. Pet Wiki suggests daily walks and play to keep them happy and healthy.2 1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after an Irish Red and White Setter's teeth and ears?

Brush your dog's teeth at least twice a week, ideally daily, using dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly for moisture or dirt, especially since floppy ears trap moisture. Clean gently with a vet-recommended solution, and never push anything into the ear canal.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does an Irish Red and White Setter live?

The Irish Red and White Setter typically lives 10 to 12 years. With good care, a balanced diet, and regular vet check-ups, they can enjoy a healthy and happy life.1

Is an Irish Red and White Setter good with children and other pets?

Yes, this breed is known as a devoted family dog, kind and affectionate. They are friendly towards people and usually get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized. Their gentle and dependable nature makes them a wonderful companion.2 1

Can an Irish Red and White Setter be left alone?

This breed thrives on companionship and enjoys being part of household life, so they may struggle with long periods alone. Gradually accustom them to short absences and ensure they have plenty of exercise and enrichment. For specific advice, consult a good breeder or trainer.2 1

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.