Discover Everything About Irish Red and White Setter
Learn about the breed characteristics, health, history, and find trusted breeders
At a glance
Irish Red and White Setter overview
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Health grade
Relative to other breeds
The Irish Red and White Setter is considered a healthy breed, as breed-specific risks are well-managed through mandatory health tests. It is essential to screen for hip dysplasia (HD), as well as perform genetic testing for Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency type I (CLAD-I) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA-rcd4). As long as you ensure the parents have certified test results when purchasing a puppy, the risk of these conditions can be effectively minimized.
Lifespan
10–12 yrs
Height
57–66 cm
Weight
25–32 kg
Practical
- Puppy price: 1,500 – 2,500 €
- Coat: Smooth and silky, medium length, without undercoat
- Origin: Ireland
Typical coat colors
- White with solid red spots
Temperament
Daily life
What matters most
Especially with a Irish Red and White Setter, choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →Is the Irish Red and White Setter right for you?
The Irish Red and White Setter is a highly athletic, friendly Vorstehhund (pointing dog) — bred to search the terrain for game birds over a wide radius and to stand absolutely motionless at the first scent.
Perfect for you if:
- You are keen on intensive scent work or dummy training in open fields — a simple walk won't be enough to tire out this specialist.
- You lead with a gentle hand and patience, as this breed is sensitive and will completely shut down if pressured.
- You live in a rural area and can provide safe, expansive off-leash space away from busy roads.
- You are looking for a gentle and affectionate companion at home who values family connection above all else.
Less ideal if:
- You expect a dog that naturally strolls in a tight radius around you — it was bred for systematically searching vast distances.
- You are out of the house for eight hours a day and are looking for a dog that will accept being left alone without complaint.
- You live in the middle of the city and only have small, crowded parks available for daily exercise.
The real vibes check
Indoors, he is a soft, cuddly shadow who would love nothing more than to lie on your lap — but as soon as you step into an open field, someone flips a switch. The cuddle bug turns into a highly focused athlete zig-zagging across the terrain, his nose scanning the horizon. If you appreciate and can manage these two sides, you will have a fascinating partner; if not, you will end up with a frustrated long-distance runner on a long leash.
Breed Profile
There are four different breeds of setters, most of which differ in their external appearance. The Irish Red and White Setter (IRWS for short) is similar to the better-known Irish Red Setter and is its older brother. Setters immediately catch the eye with their silky fur and well-proportioned physique. This is underlined by the graceful and slightly springy movement. The IRWS has dark eyes, a long neck and a narrow head with a prominent occipital bone and medium-length ears. The white-red fur should be as free of curls and waves as possible. Like the other setters, this breed is a member of FCI Group 7, which is classified as a pointer. Since there are only a few lines at IRWS, there is usually no distinction between show and work lines.
| Height | 57 - 61 cm (Female), 62 - 66 cm (Male) |
| Weight | 25 - 30 kg (Female), 27 - 32 kg (Male) |
| Life Expectancy | 10 - 12 years |
| Character | Lively, friendly, intelligent |
| Coat | Smooth and silky, medium length, without undercoat |
| Coat Color | White with solid red spots |
| Price | 1500 - 2500 € |
Health
Solid
Health grade
The Irish Red and White Setter is considered a healthy breed, as breed-specific risks are well-managed through mandatory health tests. It is essential to screen for hip dysplasia (HD), as well as perform genetic testing for Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency type I (CLAD-I) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA-rcd4). As long as you ensure the parents have certified test results when purchasing a puppy, the risk of these conditions can be effectively minimized.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-generated by our veterinary-genetics model.
In daily life this can mean
With joint-friendly rearing, regular ear care, and routine eye check-ups, most dogs stay active and healthy for a long time.
The breeder's role
Reputable breeders have the parents' hips, eyes, blood clotting, and immune system tested to minimize risks within the bloodline.
Frequently asked questions about the Irish Red and White Setter
Is a Irish Red and White Setter the right dog for me?
The Irish Red and White Setter is an active dog that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
How long does a Irish Red and White Setter live?
The average life expectancy of a Irish Red and White Setter is 10-12 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
How much grooming does a Irish Red and White Setter need?
Irish Red and White Setter grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
Is a Irish Red and White Setter good for families with children?
The Irish Red and White Setter can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
Irish Red and White Setter Breeders Near You
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Guides & Resources
Guides, checklists, and breed profiles — so you can make a well-informed decision.