Overview
Before the solid red Irish Setter became fashionable, the Irish Red and White was the working setter of Ireland. It nearly died out in the twentieth century and is still a vulnerable native breed. It is slightly shorter and heavier than the red dog, with a white coat patched in deep chestnut, and breeders have kept its working ability in mind.
Owners describe them as a little more settled and biddable than the Irish Setter, but they are still a high energy pointing dog with a long adolescence. They are affectionate, keen to please and very much a family dog once their exercise needs are met.
Exercise and walking needs
Two hours a day is realistic for an adult, with at least one long off-lead run or a good session on a long line. They are built to cover ground at a fast gallop and will not be satisfied by walking at your pace.
Young setters should not be over-exercised while bones are developing. Shorter walks with free play rather than forced distance until the owner confirms the dog is mature.
On the walk
- Recall: Decent with training but birds will break it. Expect a setter to freeze on point and then follow the flush. Work in secure space until you know the dog.
- Range: They work wide and fast. Even a well-trained setter may be a hundred metres away before it checks in.
- Other dogs: Friendly, playful and rarely aggressive. Their speed can intimidate smaller dogs.
- Weather: Feathering on the legs and chest collects mud and burrs. Keep a towel and a comb in the van.
Tips for professional walkers
- Carry a whistle if the owner uses one; it carries further than your voice across a field.
- Choose routes with open space to run and not too many ground-nesting birds in spring.
- Check ears after wet walks and brush out the feathering before you hand the dog back.
- Give the dog something to do in the second half of the walk, like a retrieve or find-it game.
What to ask the owner
- Is the dog trained to a whistle, and what are the signals for recall and stop?
- Does it have a strong bird interest, and are there fields on the usual routes to avoid in nesting season?
- Any trouble with bloat or stomach upsets after exercise, and how long should it rest before eating?