Irish Red Setter: description of the breed, character, features and reviews. Irish Setter - description and breed standard, raising at home and raising puppies Irish Red Setter: history

A beautiful, elegant, but very active and playful dog is best suited for people who are cheerful, athletic, and who love hiking and traveling.

The dog's color fully justifies its claim. Irish descent– from the tip of the nose to the tip of the feather (tail) it is chestnut with a red tint, and in the sun it is fiery red. The Irish Setter is a bundle of exuberant energy. If this energy is not directed in the right direction in time, then a cheerful dog will quickly find a way out for its temperament, which may not always please the owner, especially if the owner of the setter is a sad phlegmatic person.

An excursion into the history of the breed

All experts agree that one of the ancestors of the red setter is the red and white Irish setter (piebald). But dog experts still don’t have a common opinion about the second progenitor. Some believe that this is a spaniel, while others, with a certain degree of caution, call the Irish dog an unknown breed.

Be that as it may, at the end of the 19th century, a breed standard for the Irish Red Setter was approved. It took breeders two centuries for the setter to turn into a hardy dog ​​with excellent working qualities.

Russian hunters and just “dog lovers” did not immediately fall in love with the Irish “saffron milk cap”. The reason for the cool attitude was the dog’s irrepressible temperament and disobedience, which made raising the dog very difficult. However, domestic dog handlers managed to somewhat curb the Irishman’s character, while preserving his best hunting qualities.

Characteristics of the Irish Setter

Quite a large, athletically built animal. However, thin bones and graceful build create the impression of lightness and even fragility. This is facilitated by complete absence undercoat. The long, flowing, silky coat gives the dog an elegant appearance, full of inner dignity. Dog face really radiates kindness and trust.

The hunting gundog, despite its playful character, is distinguished by its enviable hard work. When hunting, the dog is very passionate and has innate quick search skills. Well-developed intelligence allows the setter to make the right decisions even in difficult situations. independent decisions. According to reviews from experienced hunters, it is difficult to find a better hunting partner than the Irish Setter.

Psychological portrait of the Irish Red Setter

Living in a family, the dog becomes very attached to its owners, becomes a devoted friend, a smart and cheerful companion. The dog is trusting and completely non-aggressive. Therefore, it is a big mistake to leave a setter in an apartment as a guard. He will not only accept the thief peacefully, but may also try to help him in the search.

A properly raised red setter is almost invisible in an apartment, despite its height. He rarely barks and is friends with other pets. However, these dogs often show their independence, willfulness, complete shamelessness and violent temperament. Therefore, the dog constantly needs steady hand. Without persistent training, a setter can become completely uncontrollable.

Irish Setter is a hunting dog, so he, like air, needs long walks and physical activity. She happily accompanies her owner on daily jogging or cycling. For her, real happiness is to run around without a leash in the forest and frolic in the fields. Loves to play with dogs of his own or another non-aggressive breed. He is very friendly towards children and happily takes part in their games. Does not tolerate violence, so in the company fighting dogs feels timid and uncomfortable.

The beauty and aristocratic appearance of the Irish Setter have become the reason that he is increasingly being adopted not as a hunter, but as a family dog, companion, and salvation from loneliness. However, it often happens that a person and such a dog simply suffer while living under the same roof. Therefore, for calm people who value above all else a quiet “bookish” lifestyle surrounded by super-ideal order, it is better to think about another, less active and energetic breed of dog.

Dog care and maintenance

Irish Setter does not have an undercoat, for this reason keeping it outside can be problematic in winter. These dogs are usually kept in houses and apartments. To keep your dog healthy and strong, you need to walk it for at least two hours twice a day.

It is necessary to care for the coat, comb it regularly, and wash it. In preparation for exhibitions, the coat is trimmed and blow-dried. Overgrown claws interfere with the dog’s proper movements, so they should be trimmed regularly and the hair between the paw pads removed.

Like all fold-eared breeds, setters can have ear problems. To avoid them, you need to clean your ears with a soft swab and carefully remove excess hair from your ears.

The Irish Setter may be allergic to certain foods, so you should be careful when introducing new foods into your dog's diet. Setters often suffer from bloating, so you should not feed your dog foods that cause increased gas formation.

Puppies, training and training

You need to train your dog with early age. Setter puppies are very gentle and trusting. But the explosive nature of the setter requires a special approach. The teacher must be consistent, demanding, persistent, but affectionate and loving. A rude shout and, even more so, a sensitive slap with a hand can nullify all education. In addition, the dog will begin to fear the owner’s hand and turn into a cowardly animal. And this is a complete disqualification of the dog.

It's good if the dog will pass general course training (OKD). If a dog is raised as a hunter, then special training is necessary to develop working skills.

Height and weight of the Irish Red Setter

The height of the Irish Setter is allowed by the existing standard within the range of 58-67 cm for males, and 55-62 cm for females. With this height, the dogs are quite light: males from 27 to 32 kg, females from 24 to 29 kg.

The Irish Setter is a large, active and cheerful dog with a kind and peaceful character. Perfect for a young family leading a healthy lifestyle. For older people it's so active dog will become a burden.

As a companion dog, the Irishman scores 9 out of 10. Non-aggressive. Lives in a world where everyone is each other's friends and there is no hatred or malice. Attached to a person. Loves games and gets along well with children. 10 out of 10 cannot be chosen just because setters have character and some independence. It is impossible to achieve complete obedience; it always leaves the right to choose: agree to demands or not. At a certain age, the Irish Setter's hyperactivity leads to chaos in the house and theft of food. To prevent this from happening, give your pet the necessary attention, satisfying the need for movement with walks, and love endlessly.

History of the breed

Ireland is considered the birthplace of dogs. In the 18th century, the breed was bred for the purpose of hunting in marshy and steppe areas. As the years passed, they began to evaluate her based on her external appearance and present her at various exhibitions. The color was different. Previously, representatives of the breed were allowed impurities or not entirely pure color.

How an independent breed was determined in mid-19th century. Initially it was used exclusively for hunting. For a long time was not considered a family dog ​​due to its unruly nature. Later, the breeders noticed the shortcoming and began making adjustments. Today the setter is devoid of aggressiveness.

Its popularity is due to different reasons in different countries. For example, in the United States of America, the boom in the Irish Setter as an ideal family dog ​​began when two successive presidents, Truman and Nixon, were often seen in public with the playful red dogs.

As a hunting dog, the setter is perfect for hunting on water and in swampy areas. A fast, agile and resilient dog with great joy participates in hunting raids, drives and brings game.

Breed standard

The Irish Setter is a harmoniously built medium-sized dog with a dry, strong type of constitution.

The body is narrow, dry, with a moderately developed muscular frame, smooth, curved lines. This applies to the abdomen, back, sternum, and head parameters. The paws are smooth, long, thin, the hind legs are set slightly wider than the front ones. The toes are tightly set, wide, and the claws are clearly defined. The elbow bends of the front paws are directed backwards. The ribs are rounded, evenly curved, the chest is deep, the groins are tucked. The muscles are not as well developed as in dogs of other breeds with similar height and similar parameters.

Irish Setter Personality

The setter has a peaceful, good-natured, slightly peculiar character. Energetic and active, creates a similar owner. Deprived of aggression towards dogs and strangers, the Irishman takes everyone for a friend, without expecting a trick. Despite its large size, it will not be possible to make it from an animal watchdog and an intimidating security guard. Not suspicious of strangers. Quality is not embedded in genes.

Dogs of the breed are not distinguished by impeccable obedience; owners talk about extraordinary intelligence and the ability to subtly respond to what is happening around them. An intelligent, humane, soft and kind look gives the Irish Setter a certain aura of tenderness.

The dog is good with children. Never allow you to accidentally push or scare your baby. The setter gets along well with pets, especially if it grows up living together in a house.

The dog is fast, energetic, with excellent reactions. Not aggressive, friendly, obedient, loyal. He gets along well with children, rarely shows aggression, but in case of an attack he is able to show fighting qualities!

Irish Setter Care

The Irish Setter is an apartment dog. It is difficult to imagine a good-natured creature, loving family members with all its heart, in an enclosure or on a leash. Gone are the days when hunting was considered the purpose of the breed. Today the setter is a family dog, pleasing to the eye with activity and love of life.

You will have to groom your dog's long hair daily. It is enough to comb the dog to prevent the appearance of tangles, and bathe as necessary. You can’t bathe your dog often; the coat is soaked in special fat that protects against external environment, making it waterproof. With frequent bathing, the layer is damaged and the coat takes on an unhealthy appearance.

Setters' ears, like dogs with floppy ears, require special care to prevent inflammation. The veterinarian regularly checks the condition of your pet's ears. The ears often suffer from all kinds of infections. The dog should visit a doctor once every 3 months.

Dog breeds are different good health and high tone. We list a number of diseases characteristic of the breed:

• Bloating (volvulus);
• Allergic dermatitis;
• Hypothyroidism;
• Epilepsy;
• Melanoma;
• Bone cancer;
• Congenital idiopathic megaesophagus (enlargement of the esophagus);
• Otitis.

Let us emphasize the main rules of care:

1. The dog is large and requires walking fresh air, active games, excess space and freedom of movement.
2. Walk at least twice a day, giving him plenty of opportunity to catch up. You should not give excessive loads, especially after meals.
3. Brush regularly, at least 2 times a week, otherwise tangled balls of hair will appear, disturbing the dog and worsening its appearance.
4. Bathing is preferably regular, infrequent, as needed. Ideally, once every 2-3 weeks. Exception - rainy weather, dirt on the street - in the latter case Irish Setter puppies and adults require washing after every walk. To ensure that the dog brings less dirt and does not freeze its paws, the hair between the toes is periodically shortened. Otherwise, it does not need regular haircuts. During shedding, the fur does not cling and falls to the floor. Regular cleaning will minimize its amount in the room.
5. In the context of the topic of caring for the Irish Setter, it is important to mention that these are clean dogs; you will need to monitor the cleanliness of the toilet, sleeping area and dishes.

The veterinarian will advise you on how to properly vaccinate your dog and comment on your pet’s need for pharmacy vitamins and mineral complexes.

What to feed

Dogs eat little, given their size, but the diet is not provided for the same type and ill-conceived. An adult dog eats cereals, vegetables, and meat. In winter, the diet includes a sufficient amount fish oil. He loves meat and will not refuse pasta.

If you want to give your dog fish, make sure there are no bones that can hurt oral cavity, get stuck in the throat and cause suppuration.

You should not give your Irish Setter smoked meats, sausages, or too spicy foods. The ban applies to cakes and other store-bought sweets.

Aggressiveness Upbringing Training Intelligence Shedding Behavior with children Watchman Security guard Difficult to care for Endurance in the cold Endurance in the heat

The Irish Setter is a dog that immediately attracts attention not only with its excellent appearance, but also with its outstanding character traits. Silky red hair flowing in waves, a graceful stance, ease of movement combined with friendliness and affection make the dog an excellent companion, a loyal friend and the pride of the owner.

Interesting! The name of the breed “setter” comes from the English. "set”, meaning “take a stance, freeze.” The term setter used to refer to all long-haired pointers that existed in England.

The breed belongs to group 7 “Pointers” in the FCI classification, to section 2 “British and Irish pointers and setters”.

The Irish Red Setter as a breed was recognized in the 19th century. There is no exact information about who the ancestor of dogs was. Some researchers believe that when the breed was created, the blood of both spaniels and wolfhounds was mixed. The most reliable version is that the ancestors of modern Irish setters are Spanish long-haired bird dogs that had a coffee color and may have passed it on to the setters.

There is a version that the ancestors of red setters were smooth-haired hunting dogs. Considering that the first representatives of the breed were distinguished by such character flaws as stubbornness, ardor and pursuit of game, researchers conclude that the Irish Setter is the result of crossing an ancient setter with a foxhound, pointer and greyhound.

The breed was bred to hunt game: steppe, swamp and upland - and was accustomed to the specifics of hunting before shooting, that is, the dog found the game with the help of its good instincts and froze next to it in a characteristic stance so that the owner could see it and understand the presence of game .

Endurance, tirelessness, attractive appearance made dogs popular outside of Ireland, throughout England. Representatives of the breed began to be used not only as hunters. They also began to participate in exhibitions, where their fiery fur and elegance could not be ignored. The breed was first recognized in 1976, and in 1882 the first breed club appeared. Irish Setter.

Characteristics, description, character

The Irish Setter, whose breed description was made public at the end of the 19th century, is large dog, but not distinguished by a muscular body. The epithets elegant and light suit him better. Thanks to its elongated body and long legs, it can gain great speed.

• The Setter has a long, hard, shiny coat. The hair on the limbs and body is longer, and the hair on the head and muzzle is shorter. The standard color is mahogany with a golden tint. Black spots and spots are not permitted, and white areas on the face, chest, neck and toes are acceptable.
• The dog is slender, has light bones, and in the stance it is taut like a string. The combination of long hair, elongated body, and small head looks very harmonious and reveals an aristocrat in the Irish Setter.
• Soft, hanging ears give the dog a special charm, and kind, expressive dark brown eyes betray her kindness and intelligence.

The Irish Setter dog's character changed along with the formation of the breed. So, it is known that at first she was not popular because of her complex character, difficulties in raising and training. After successful attempts to improve the character, you will be able to get a brave, energetic, disciplined and smart dog. The Irish Setter has a bright character; she is a sparkle not only externally, but also in her soul:

• He is friendly not only to the owner and members of his family, but also to strangers, so the Irish Setter will not be an important hunter and watchman. In this, the setter is similar to the dog, also completely devoid of aggressiveness in those around him.
• The dog is very active and energetic, so it is not suitable for those who like to lie on the couch. The setter will be happy to accompany the owner during jogging and cycling.
• Sensitivity, affection and inability to cause harm - these qualities help the setter become an excellent companion dog and friend to a family that even has small children.
• He is distinguished by natural sociability, he will find mutual language even with capricious, restless children and unfamiliar dogs, without at all trying to dominate them.

Diseases

The Irishman is susceptible to certain diseases that are caused by anatomical features or are characteristic of the breed:

• Volvulus, which can be fatal.
• Predisposition to ear infections, otitis media in particular. Hanging long ears create a favorable environment for the accumulation of dirt, the growth of bacteria and lack of ventilation.
• Sensitivity to cholesterol and toxins, causing problems with liver.
• Hip dysplasia.

Most often, diseases in the Irish Setter are not hereditary, but acquired. Only proper care, sufficient physical activity, balanced diet and regular visits to the veterinarian will allow you to enjoy the company of your pet for up to 12-15 years.

Care and maintenance

For the Irish Setter breed, care should be limited to: increased attention to animal fur and organizing walks. Being a very active animal, a dog in an apartment will feel inferior. A country house with a fenced-off area would be an ideal place for the setter to spend its energy. Walk the “Irish” 2 times a day and for as long as possible so that the dog can run around.

The Irish Setter's coat sheds twice a year, but due to its length, it does not stick to furniture or clothes, but simply falls to the floor. To improve the condition of the hair coat and reduce the amount of shedding hair, the setter should be brushed regularly. The following hygiene procedures are also regularly carried out:

• bathe the dog no more than once a month. If the pet gets dirty in the mud, then wash it completely or selectively;
• trimming the hair between the toes is the key to clean and healthy paws;
• regularly examine the ears for infections and the skin for allergic reactions.

Caring for an Irish Setter is not that difficult because the dog is clean. She quickly learns to relieve herself, first in a strictly designated place in the house, and then on the street, during walks. The Irish Setter does not smell like a dog, which makes its owners very happy.

Education and training

The Irish Setter is very energetic, making it difficult for him to concentrate on following commands. The owner of the “Irish” requires patience, consistency and endurance. There are several rules that will make it easy to teach commands:

• The training process should be persistent, but gentle. The setter, in his desire to please his owner, will happily follow commands, especially if they are related to play;
• gradualism is one of the main conditions. You should not teach your dog several commands at once. First, they teach how to perform simple ones: Come to me! Walk! Sit! When the setter learns to carry out each command the first time, they begin to learn new, more complex ones;
• The command “Stop!” the dog comply unconditionally. The dog tries to run away from the owner when he wakes up hunting instincts, and this command is designed to stop the animal, no matter how strong the awakened instincts are.

Raising an Irish Setter begins from the first day it arrives in the home and, as a rule, does not cause any difficulties. Thanks to its adequacy and intelligence, the little setter quickly gets accustomed to a place to sleep and eat; it does not develop bad habits if the owner and family members make it known that a particular action is undesirable.

Puppies

Irish Setter puppies mature until they are 2 years old. In the first years, characteristics of character and behavior, attitudes towards people and other animals are formed. It is also a crucial period for the animal’s health, strengthening and development of its musculoskeletal system.

Required accessories

1. As soon as the puppy appears in the house, they immediately prepare a place for him to rest and sleep. It should be located in a bright, warm room, where there are no drafts or irritating factors.
2. Bowls for food and water are not located on the floor, but on a special adjustable stand so that the puppy does not lean too much towards the floor, because this can lead to poor posture.
3. Toys made of elastic and durable material will help satisfy the need to chew, and the puppy will also play with it when he is left alone.

Psychology

An Irish Setter puppy arrives in a new home at the age of 2 months. The stage of adaptation to new conditions, new food and new rules is followed by a period of socialization, when the little “Irish” begins to realize his place. During this period, the dog may bite the owner - this is an attempt to dominate. The task of the puppy owner is to stop all such attempts to show the pet who is boss.

There is no need to condone bad behavior as an adult. From the age of six months, the setter tries to show independence and can run away without responding to responses and commands. The owner and his dog must know that any command is always carried out, otherwise there is a risk of raising a disobedient dog.

When raising a puppy, you should not practice physical punishment or roughness. Encouragement with words, looks and treats works very well on the setter, because it is in his blood to please his owner.

Vaccination

One of important stages in caring for a puppy, this is a vaccination that will protect the pet from a number of diseases: plague, leptospirosis, adenovirosis, parvovirosis, rabies. The vaccination schedule in each specific case must be agreed upon with a veterinarian, since depending on the disease, heredity, general condition health this schedule may change.

Prices

For the Irish Setter breed, the price depends on a number of factors: the prestige of the nursery, its distance from the central region, the class of the animal and the status of its parents.

Depending on the kennel, an Irish Setter puppy in Moscow and St. Petersburg can be bought for 20-60 thousand rubles:

• Representatives of the pet class, which will make excellent pets, cost from 20 to 40 thousand rubles. Puppies of this class differ from the breed standard and do not participate in breeding, but will become wonderful companions and true friends.
• Breeding class puppies cost from 25 to 50 thousand rubles.
• Show-class puppies that fully comply with the standard and future champions of exhibitions can be purchased for 30-60 thousand rubles.

Offers on sites like Avito or bird markets should not be taken seriously. You can use them to purchase a puppy without documents, without knowing anything about the parents, hereditary defects or character problems.

Photo

The gallery above shows photos of the Irish Setter. A dog with a fiery color and kind brown eyes leaves no one indifferent. Her activity and energy can stir up any tired or simply lazy owner, since a loving setter owner understands that movement and walks are necessary for the pet like air. The happiness of the Irish Red Setter lies in the love and attention of the owner, the opportunity to run for a long time in a spacious place and the knowledge that he is valued.

Interesting facts about the breed

• Irish Setters, along with , Shepherds, and Shelties are actively used as therapy dogs. Their cheerfulness and philanthropy helps heal people from psychological and physical problems.

• Of the three setter breeds (Irish, Gordon, English), the red setter is recognized as the most capable of learning and training.

• The Irish Setter is one of the TOP friendliest dogs. In addition to him, the list also includes Labrador Retriever, , papillon, American Cocker Spaniel, Japanese Chin, St. Bernard, Bichon Frize.

Video

When choosing a friendly, loyal and playful friend who prefers an active lifestyle, it is recommended to pay attention to the Irish Setter breed. They bred him for hunting, but Lately The Irishman has begun to gain popularity among those who want to have a pet - he gets along well with kids and has a friendly disposition. A dog has many advantages, but even experienced dog breeders would benefit from familiarizing themselves with the basic requirements and characteristics.

History of the breed

The history of the breed is not replete with interesting details. The homeland of beautiful hunting dogs is Ireland; it was here that the handsome dogs were first bred in the nineteenth century and quickly gained popularity all over the world. Unfortunately, it is impossible to accurately determine which breeds are the ancestors of the Irish. According to some reports, there were spaniels and cops here.

There is also evidence that it was planned to use the Irish for various works, but it is impossible to verify the information. The only confirmation of this hypothesis is the dog’s muscular body, excellent endurance and excellent build.

Brief description of the breed:

• large size, nobility of posture;
• athletic body build;
• male height up to 65 cm, female height up to 60 cm;
• weight up to 35 kg;
• small head, dark brown eyes;
• soft, folded ears, densely covered with soft hair, the length of which often exceeds 5 cm;
• high muscular legs;
• long, toned body;
• Thick, long hair that has no undercoat; the smell of a dog is not noticeable.

Most often, the Irish have a light or dark red coat color, but there are representatives of the breed that flaunt a chestnut “outfit” with snow-white tan markings on the throat or chest area. The standards also allow a small star in the forehead area.

Comparing the Irish Setter dog breed with other large representatives of the dog family, one difference can be noticed. The Irish are not distinguished by their massiveness - the body is usually lean and rather thin, although this does not in any way affect their power and strength.

Lifespan

Like most members of the huge family of dogs, the Irish have a life expectancy of up to 15 years. If you avoid mistakes in care and surround your pet with care and love, you can easily extend this period by almost five years.

Irish Setter Personality

The main character traits of the Irish Setter are playfulness, affability, and friendliness. There will be no difficulties with training and education - the breed is distinguished by its good nature and ability to grasp things on the fly.

The Irishman has plenty of energy, so he will have to regularly go for walks with his pet. If possible, it is better to go outside the city on weekends - to the forest, to a pond, to a field. The dog will certainly be pleased with such a walk, which he will not fail to notify his owner about with incredible bursts of energy.

The Irish Setter gets along peacefully with other pets. Cats can be calm - no one will encroach on their territory and no one will force them to hide in the corners or on the closet. The Irishman especially likes to tinker with children - if you don’t make mistakes in upbringing, it won’t be difficult even for a toddler to keep him on a leash.

Planning to raise from an Irish Setter guard dog, it is better to abandon such an idea, otherwise such experiments will end in disappointment. The Irishman will greet even a stranger with a friendly wag of his tail.

Purchasing an Irish Setter puppy is not recommended for families who prefer a quiet way of life - this breed does not know how to get bored for a long time. Elderly people who long walks and physical activity are not recommended, it is also better to refuse to buy a pet that prefers to spend most of its time on the move.

Care and education

When purchasing an Irish Red Setter, you should prepare for daily care in advance. Smooth coat without undercoat requires special attention owners, otherwise the dog will quickly lose all its splendor. It is recommended to brush your pet daily; it is better to use special brushes with natural bristles. The Irishman really likes such manipulations. Regular brushing serves as a good massage, completely removes dead hair, removes dirt and dust. Be sure to do a daily wet cleaning of the house - despite the fact that shedding practically does not cause difficulties, hair in the room cannot be avoided.

Water procedures – required condition, which will have to be performed at least once every six months. You should not bathe too much - if you do it too often, there is a risk of washing natural oils, which protect the dog from dust and moisture. It is better to use special shampoos for long-haired breeds - the use of such products not only perfectly washes out dirt, but also improves the structure of the coat, providing it with a healthy appearance and silky shine.

Both Irish Setter puppies and adult dogs often develop ear infections, so it is recommended to check their ears regularly and contact a veterinarian at the first sign of discomfort. Remove dirt with a damp cotton pad or napkin.

The claws of your pet are also subject to regular inspection. It is recommended to shorten them with forceps, and at least once a month. You should remember about the fifth toe, which is only on the front paws. It does not come into contact with surfaces, so it practically does not wear off - you have to shorten it with tongs.

Be sure to examine the eyes - the breed is prone to souring. A proven remedy will come to the rescue here - concentrated tea leaves. Rinse your eyes several times a day at the first sign of souring.

Another disadvantage of the breed is its tendency to skin diseases. It is quite difficult to avoid dermatitis, so it is recommended to regularly examine the dog, especially if it begins to itch and lick vigorously.

Irish Setter training begins from childhood. You should not try to force or use too harsh methods - such experiments will not bring anything good. The Irishman quickly remembers commands, so it is better to show some patience, which will certainly be rewarded.

There won’t be any particular difficulties in keeping an Irishman. The dog eats it with pleasure natural food(porridge, pasta), meat. The Irish Setter will also like boiled vegetables. Like for a pet and fish, but be sure to expose it first heat treatment and completely remove the bones. Occasionally pamper your pet with dog biscuits or dry food. High-quality canned food and varieties hard cheese will also bring the dog a lot of pleasure.

Before using dry purchased feed, it is better to consult a specialist. Only a veterinarian can choose the perfect one balanced composition, which will benefit your pet.

The Irish Setter is an excellent friend and faithful companion on long walks, so it is recommended to give this breed preference to families who cannot imagine their life without regular exercise. The Irishman will not cause any trouble in caring for and maintaining them; he will gladly take part in all joint activities and thank his owners for their care and attention with friendliness and boundless love.

Evgeniy Sedov

When your hands grow from the right place, life is more fun :)

This dog breed, with a good-natured character and active nature, will be a good choice for a young family interested in a healthy lifestyle and loving walks. The Irish Setter is a companion dog, but due to constant desire moving is not suitable for older people. The Irishman does not show aggression, loves to play, gets along with children, even participating in their games. The setter is a hunting breed; dogs are characterized by self-will, and it is not possible to achieve absolute obedience.

Origin story

The Irish Setter comes from "ash dogs". Pointers also belong to this group. In the 16th century, they became the basis for breeding the black and white English setter. Irish red came later. Experts agree that they used english setter, Bloodhounds, Gordon Setters and Irish Water Spaniels.

As the name suggests, the breed originated in Ireland. Bred in the 18th century for hunting in swamps and steppes, it gradually came to be valued for its appearance. At the end of the 19th century, the breed was finally formed. The Irish Setter had a variety of colors and was not yet a family dog ​​due to its capricious hunting disposition. Gradually, breeders began to reduce the aggressiveness of the breed.

The Irish Setter is popular, and for good reason. Thus, in the USA, the breed gained fame due to the fact that Presidents Truman and Nixon were owners of such pets. When hunting, the animal feels excellent in swampy areas, is distinguished by its endurance, speed of work, and is capable of driving and carrying game, and participating in a hunting raid.

Description of the Irish Red Setter breed

Irishman - bright breed. According to the standard, his coat is dense, long, rich in color - ranging from red to chestnut with the possible presence of white markings. The physique is strong and proportional. Setters have a thick undercoat and short guard hair on the face and paws. On the body she middle length, thick and soft. The skin on the paw pads is elastic.

The Irishman is recognized as a loyal, curious, affectionate, non-aggressive dog who loves hunting and games. Due to its hunting origin, the breed has a number of specific requirements. Thus, they should not be afraid of water or gunshots, as well as other noises, and be tireless, energetic and easy to work with. The setter is distinguished by its keen hearing and keen sense of smell.

Appearance

The Irish Setter is the pride of his country. One company even chose him as the face of their brand. The appearance of the animal touches and delights: strong build, kind eyes, aristocratic behavior. The Irish are passionate hunters, tireless, keenly interested in the world around them, affectionate, loyal. Average animal weight: 25–35 kg, height: female 55–62 cm, male 58–67 cm.

FCI standard

A breed is a group of animals that have a common origin and roots, an inherited stable constitution and the same appearance. A major organization for the standardization of dog breeds is the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI). This association stands for the development and protection of cynology, maintaining the purity of breeds. She puts forward the following requirements for a purebred Irish setter:

• Head. Not too wide or long. In a purebred Irishman, it has a narrow outline, but without a feeling of fragility. Oval, without strong convexity, forehead, back of the head with a clearly defined ridge. The dog looks cheerful and surprised (as nature intended by placing its eyes in a special way). The muzzle and forehead are the same length. The mouth is not deep, the lips are thin, their color matches the nose, and should look harmonious with the coat.
• Teeth. Moderate size, scissor bite, meets in a strong lock, there is no gap between the incisors.
• Nose. Medium size. The nostrils are large and round. The color of the nose depends on the coat, ranging from red-brown to black.
• Eyes. Almond shaped. The eyelids have a wide line of eyeliner to match the fur. Irises of saturated Brown or nutty.
• Ears. Located low and deep relative to the muzzle. The ear cartilage is hard near the base and soft and thin in the last two thirds. When the dog is excited, stressed, playing or working, the ears turn forward. At the age of 2-3 years, decorative colors appear on them.
• Body. Fit, elongated, graceful, gives the impression of strength and dexterity. The neck, while muscular and strong, should not be excessively, disproportionately long or wide. There are no folds on it. The withers are slightly noticeable, the back is level, the pelvis is convex. Rib cage descends to the level of the elbow, not wide, ribs with a pronounced bend, drawn back. Shoulder girdle located at a level above the croup. The groin line is taut and forms a graceful curve.
• Paws. Wiry, smooth, with developed muscles that do not weigh down the dog. The front paws are placed under the body. Elbows well dropped. The shoulder blades and hind legs are pulled back. The thigh is elongated, the hands are round, collected, and small.
• Tail. Wide at the base, strongly tapering towards the end, smooth. The dog carries its tail at or above the line of the spine, but not in vertical position. Adults have a decorative color.

Coat type and color

The animal's undercoat is thick, but not thick. The guard hair varies in length and thickness. The hair is shorter on the head and the front of the paws. The body is covered with thick, soft fur of medium length. There are silky, smooth, long feathers on the ears, paws, tail, and underline under the peritoneum. The space between the toes is covered with protective hair. Color: red-chestnut, rich color. According to the standard, white markings in the form of “stars” and lines are acceptable on the sternum, muzzle, and fingers. Their color distinguishes them from other representatives of the breed.

Character and behavioral characteristics

Character four-legged friend- family. A pet, having run around during a walk and eaten a hearty meal, turns into a devoted, loving creature. The Irish get along with ease in a large family, love children, but do not tolerate loneliness or separation from their owner. By nature, this is a peace-loving, friendly dog, but unique, requiring a person to be just as active and energetic. The decision about whether to get more animals depends on the pet's level of socialization.

Pet's temperament

The Irishman has irrepressible energy. If a pet doesn’t have enough games and walks, it will occupy itself in the home, and the owner will obviously not like this, because there is a risk that in the process the pet will break or break something. Russian hunters did not immediately fall in love with the breed, since their irrepressible temperament and disobedience made education difficult. Dog handlers in Russia managed to curb the dog’s character while maintaining its hunting qualities.

Relationships with people

The setter is peaceful and good-natured, he does not show aggression even towards strangers and other dogs, believing that everyone is his friend. This is a large dog, but he will not be a guard. Gets along well with children, will not allow the baby to be pushed or bitten, and will not snap back if the child pulls the tail. He is fast, with excellent reactions, obedient, loyal, friendly, but if an ill-wisher attacks, he can show fighting qualities. Four-legged friends love to travel, so they will be happy to keep their owner company. They behave calmly on the road.

Hunting instinct

The Irish Setter dog was bred to hunt game, so by nature it has pronounced hunting instincts. She gallops after her prey, demonstrating flexibility and fantastic flair; she chases game on land and in water with equal pleasure. The same instincts force a pet to steal; he may try to steal edibles from a table in a house or public place.

Intellectual abilities

Setters are not known for their obedience, but they are gifted with extraordinary intelligence; they react subtly to what is happening around them. They have an intelligent, human-like, kind look. Thanks to developed intelligence, the animal copes with difficult situations by making correct, independent decisions, which is why Irish Reds are considered the best hunters.

Education and training

You need to practice with Irish Red constantly, without raising your voice. The breed is easy to train, but is distinguished by its willfulness, desire for independence, and lends itself to mood. It is impossible to insist that your pet be calm and sedentary - these dogs are too temperamental and ambitious. You will have to spend time on training and education.

The dogs are willful and run away. To avoid this, you should work with your pet from puppyhood until he begins to obey his owner unquestioningly (in his voice, gestures). A difficult command for a setter is “come to me!” A hunting dog easily gets carried away and, in the excitement of the chase, stops hearing its owner. To eliminate this point, you have to turn to dog handlers.

Training rules

We should not forget that setters are passionate hunters. The slightest noise or hint of prey means for them the start of the chase. Until the training is completed, it is not recommended to walk your pet without a leash in parks or forest areas, unless the command is “come to me!” is not executed flawlessly. You can easily lose your four-legged friend: he will run away into the thicket, carried away by the chase, and it will be difficult to find him.

When in a hunting state, a setter can become aggressive. It is unacceptable to punish a pet, because it is an animal’s nature. The Irish feel a person's emotional state. They need to be shamed, show dissatisfaction, they will repent of their offense and apologize. You can lightly spank your pet with a rolled-up newspaper. Painful punishment will force the animal to become even more aggressive, which will complicate the learning process.

Exercise stress

Setters are the epitome healthy image in life, they are excellent athletes and prefer the following leisure activities: coursing (imitation of hunting: tests with bait are carried out in the field), agility (a sport where the owner and the pet must quickly pass an obstacle course without mistakes), frisbee, canine freestyle (dancing) , and setters won’t refuse to swim. Dogs, whose hunting instincts are very developed, love when sticks or balls are thrown at them, and the “fetch” command turns into an exciting game. If you give your pet a workout, he will repay with devotion and love.

Pet care

The appearance of the animal depends on how the owner will care for it. Without skincare procedures, proper physical activity, proper nutrition the pet's fur will not be as shiny as on the covers of glossy publications. It is important to brush your dog regularly so that he does not leave hairs all over the apartment. If we are talking about show class representatives who have long hair, then they need to be brushed every day. Care includes a whole range of procedures: bathing, hygiene, care (monitoring whether the pet is sick, whether everything is in order with digestion).

How to properly care for your fur

The coat of this breed is long and therefore requires proper care. The puppy should be accustomed to regular brushing (at least twice a week), starting from the age of two months. Brushes are used for this. The hair between the toes should be trimmed regularly to prevent it from forming into clumps that could damage the pads. The claws don't wear down well; you need to trim them yourself. Show class animals with longer hair need care every day.

During the shedding period, daily brushing is mandatory for all dogs, since loose but not removed hairs increase skin moisture, creating a comfortable environment for bacteria to multiply. Some owners use protective overalls, in which only the paws get dirty. There are also shoes for four-legged pets, but this will prevent the claws from grinding down. If you want to simplify care, you can get a haircut. Hair on the ears and belly is removed to avoid the formation of tangles. Show dogs trim the hair between the fingers.

Hygiene and bathing

You need to bathe your dog once every 10-15 days, using mild shampoos for dogs. It is better to cover your ears with cotton wool while taking a bath so as not to lead to otitis media. You shouldn’t bathe your pet often, because water and chemical detergents wash away the skin’s natural lubrication, those natural oils that make the dog’s fur waterproof and protect it from dust and dirt. You can use dry shampoo if you don’t want to bathe your four-legged friend, but you shouldn’t resort to the procedure often.

Ear and eye care

All lop-eared breeds have ear problems, Irish Reds are predisposed to ear infections, so it is necessary to constantly check ears. If dirt and sulfur have accumulated, then you need to clean them with soft swabs. If necessary, remove excess hair. IN in good condition The setter's ears are pink and do not have a strong odor.

Irish Reds love to swim, which increases the likelihood that pathogenic bacteria may end up in the ear canals. Eyes should be examined and cleaned as necessary with some regularity. They can be wiped with a cotton pad moistened with chamomile decoction. If your pet has inflammation of the mucous membrane, you should contact your veterinarian.

Irish Reds are designed for living in a house or apartment. Representatives of the breed need a lot of space, since they are active and playful: in a cramped space it will be difficult for the pet, he will drop and destroy everything he passes by. For this reason, it is difficult to imagine an Irishman in an enclosure or kennel on a leash. If your four-legged pet lives in an apartment, then get ready to clean up the fur every day, since the dog sheds often.

How to arrange a place for a pet

New setter owners must ensure that the dog has a place. It should not be in a passageway or draft. Select bedding of medium hardness; the ideal option is an orthopedic mattress with removable covers. Irish Reds are clean and tidy animals; owners need to keep their sleeping area clean and wash their bowls regularly. Protect your pet from contact with sockets and wires; kids will chew on anything that attracts their attention.

Active and long walks

The Irish are active and energetic dogs. They happily follow commands, if they need to run or be active - they are overwhelmed with energy that needs to be spent. Ideal option: run around to your heart's content in a field outside the city or in a park. If the owner of the animal does not organize such long walks, then you should prepare for the dog to start playing pranks at home, because energy must be spent.

Diet

Representatives of the breed, as a rule, do not suffer from allergies to food products. If your four-legged pet begins to itch, its hair is coming out, its eyes are watery, and its mucous membranes are swollen, then it is recommended to find the source of irritation or start giving the animal hypoallergenic food. Owners who use an Irish dog for hunting choose store-bought food; there will be less chance that the dog will eat shot game.

An alternative to industrially produced food: natural food (meat and cereals) or home-prepared canned food, but then the vitamins and mineral supplements that are already included in dry food will have to be included separately in the diet. By-products – valuable source Protein, vitamins and microelements are essential in a dog’s diet. Irish Red should not be given sausages, smoked meats, or sweets. Pets often suffer from intestinal disorders, so avoid spicy and fried foods. Poor quality food leads to dermatitis.

Nutritional features of puppies

A small puppy should receive more vitamins, calcium and proteins, include milk and low-fat cottage cheese, meat in your diet. When the baby starts teething, he should receive soft cartilage and vitamins. At natural nutrition at the age of six months to 9 months, the puppy begins to be given fruits, vegetables, and grains. Purchased balanced food makes it easier to keep a dog, but you need to choose the right food to suit the breed, age and activity of the animal.

How much do puppies cost?

Buying a Red Irish Setter is easy. If you are determined to add to your family, then it is better to contact a nursery, where they will select a healthy baby with a pedigree for you. The cost of a puppy of this breed starts from 10,000 rubles; for that kind of money you can buy a breed-class pet (working dogs). If you want to purchase an animal for a show career, the price will increase to 50,000 rubles, but the puppy will be from show-class champions.

Where and how to buy

If you need a companion dog, then take a look at puppies from working parents. If you want to participate in shows and receive awards, pay attention to the litter from show class champions. If you need a dog for hunting, it is better to look in hunting clubs where they know Irish dogs with excellent performance. You can buy a puppy second-hand, but prices from private breeders differ from the cost of an animal in a kennel. When talking with the breeder, note that you are not choosing a four-legged friend for exhibitions, and he will select a cheaper puppy.

If you take it by hand, you need to make sure that the breed is authentic, ask to see documents (pet passport, awards or diplomas). An important argument in favor of purchasing a puppy with a pedigree: if the breeder turns out to be unscrupulous, he may allow the mating of a bitch with a defect, then the puppy will get severe genetic diseases, and if the animal also turns out to have an unstable psyche, then it won’t seem too bad. You can purchase a pet in the following nurseries:

• "Contario Ode" (Moscow);
• "Count's Nest" (Nizhny Novgorod);
• Glamor Dolls (Moscow);
• cynological center "Alistair" (Moscow);
• hunting dog breeding club "Glencar" (Moscow);
• "Red Bliss" (Moscow);
• Redgrace (Moscow);
• JetSetter (Moscow).

You should not choose a pet based on price; the cheaper the puppy, the less effort you spent on it. When choosing, check the condition of the animal. There should be no discharge in the eyes. Pay attention to the gums, if they are pink and not pale, then everything is fine. If the belly is swollen, then the puppy has worms. Feel your navel to see if there is a hernia. Don't buy a sleepy puppy, look at how it moves and whether its paws are straight. Check your appetite. Do not adopt an animal earlier than two months old.

Health and life expectancy

The Irish Setter is a healthy breed, but has weaknesses. If the pet has good heredity, he is looked after complete care, then his life expectancy will be on average 12–14 years. Representatives of the breed have a weak liver, which reacts sharply to toxins and cholesterol. Fold dogs often suffer from otitis media. Irish dogs should not be fed heavily before a walk; stomach or intestinal volvulus is possible. There are other ailments that are inherited. After purchase, the puppy must be vaccinated and dewormed. He must be free of fleas and lice.

Hereditary diseases

The Irish Setter has genetic predisposition to a number of diseases, and the domestication of the worker led to this hound dog. Common breed diseases:

• otitis;
• hip dysplasia (hereditary and age-related);
• spondylosis (damage to the spine due to the formation of spines);
• dislocations (congenital pathology);
• epilepsy;
• progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) (a hereditary pathology that leads to poor vision and blindness; breeders do a DNA test that will show a tendency to PRA);
• melanoma, osteosarcoma;
• hypothyroidism (occurs due to a lack of thyroid hormones);
• hypertrophic osteodystrophy (pathology affects the joints, radius, ulna, fibula and tibia.

Photo of Irish Setter

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