THE IRISH SETTER MUST RANK AMONGST the most glamorous of all the breeds of dog. Immensely popular with all manner of people, he is ideal as a centre of attraction for the glossy advertisement, with his rich chestnut coat gleaming as only that of a healthy athlete can. A moderate amount of white on his chest is not uncommon, and will not disqualify him for the show ring.

His air of the devil-may-care is totally genuine and his friendly, affectionate nature makes him a good household dog ready for all the fun and frolic a family will hand him.

Despite his racy outlines, he needs to be powerful in his hindquarters, and well boned throughout. Given the chance he will demonstrate that underneath the glamour there is a worker willing to give of his best.

Popularity of the solid Reds increased from about the late 1800s when they had become among the top-winning dogs and a breed club for the Irish (Red) Setter was formed in 1882, pushing the Red and White into something of a decline, which now has been reversed. Like the Red and White there are no specific height or weight restrictions in the standard and specimens can be found up to 68.5 centimetres (27 inches) or at 32 kilograms (70 pounds) weight.

Breed description courtesy of

Irish Setter Working In Field - Original Painting

by John Paley

Click image for details

Irish Setters in a Field

by Leon Danchin

Click image for details

Irish Setters Head Study

by Leon Danchin

Click image for details