Irish Setter
History/Origin
The Irish Setter, originally called in the United States as
the Irish Red Setter, came from a range of setters, pointers, and spaniels.
There was even a time when it had shorter legs and a red and white color.
Intensive breeding of selected types in the 19th century, however, produced
the lustrous, chestnut red appearance that won competitions and hearts
alike. The skills of the Irish Setter make it an excellent, versatile
hunting dog but because of its striking looks, many now breed them primarily
for dog shows. Today’'s Setter maybe a mainstay of dog shows and
families alike but they are still used to hunt every now and then in different
regions.
Description
The Irish Setter has an abundant silky coat in different elegant shades
of mahogany and chestnut with occasional white patches on its feet and
chest. Although silvery-gray fur is present in young dogs'’ legs
and ears, it disappears as the puppies mature. The Setter’s' muzzle’s
measure half the entire head tapering to a jaw characterized by a tight
dental curve. The head is crowned with thin, long, triangular, soft ears.
Its eyes are either dark hazel or chestnut while it nose is either brown
or black. Its long, muscular legs are punctuated with furry feet. Its
narrow, streamlined features carry on with its chest and its thorax while
its fringed tail is held horizontally.
Temperament
The Irish Setter is naturally energetic, affectionate, and intelligent.
It gets along really well with other animals as well as with children.
However, it is not instinctively guarding and can be somewhat reserved,
high-strung, and giddy. Nevertheless, firm guidance and ample exercise
can make it the most pleasing pet.
The Setter has exhibits extreme swiftness, a brilliant olfactory perception,
and resilience over any terrain in any climate. These traits make it excellent
for all sorts of hunting, working well even on wetlands. Training early
prevents acquiring of poor habits, as it tends to learn them easily; proper
house conduct must be instilled early on. Field line setters generally
are more active than show lines but both types make really good house
pets.
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