Irish Setter

Irish Setter

Large breed · Ireland

Irish Setters are strikingly beautiful gun dogs with a flowing mahogany-red coat. Bred in 18th century Ireland for bird hunting, they are exuberant, friendly, and playful — but can act like puppies well into adulthood.

Breed Statistics

12–15 yrs
Lifespan
27–32 kg
Weight
90 min/day
Exercise
Regular brushing
Grooming

Temperament

  • Lively
  • Playful
  • Energetic
  • Affectionate
  • Independent

Daily Calorie Range

1000–1400 kcal/day

For an average adult Irish Setter. Adjust for weight, age, and activity level.

5 Facts About the Irish Setter

  1. 1

    President Richard Nixon had a beloved Irish Setter named King Timahoe at the White House.

  2. 2

    Irish Setters were developed in 18th century Ireland specifically as bird-hunting gun dogs.

  3. 3

    Their deep mahogany-red coat was selectively bred from dogs with red and white coloring over many generations.

  4. 4

    Irish Setters mature very slowly — many don't fully settle from puppy behavior until 2–3 years of age.

  5. 5

    They were among the first dog breeds shown at American dog shows in the late 19th century.

Irish Setter Age Calculator

Affects aging rate — giants age fastest.

More Irish Setter Guides