The first time I spotted an Irish Red and White Setter at a dog show, I literally did a double-take. With striking mahogany patches splashed across a pearly white coat, this dog looked like the gorgeous cousin of the more famous solid-red Irish Setter that everyone knows. And honestly? I was a bit confused. “Is that some kind of Irish Setter mix?” I whispered to my friend. Nope—turns out I was looking at one of dogdom’s best-kept secrets: the Irish Red and White Setter, a distinct breed with its own fascinating history and characteristics.
Here at pawtrix.wiki, I’ve written about dozens of dog breeds, but I’m particularly excited to shine a spotlight on this lesser-known gem. Whether you’re considering adding one to your family or just love learning about distinctive breeds with interesting backgrounds, the Irish Red and White Setter deserves your attention. There’s something special about these dogs that goes far beyond their eye-catching appearance.
So grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let’s dive into everything you need to know about Irish Red and White Setters—from their ancient heritage (which actually predates their famous red cousins!) to what it’s really like sharing your home with these energetic, patterned beauties. Trust me, by the end of this post, you’ll either be reaching for your phone to find a breeder or at least have gained a whole new appreciation for one of the dog world’s most overlooked treasures!
The Ancient Heritage: Older Than You Think
One of the most fascinating things about the Irish Red and White Setter is that despite being less well-known than their solid red cousins, they’re actually the original version! Their history is deeply rooted in Irish sporting tradition, with a legacy that nearly disappeared before making a remarkable comeback.
The Original Irish Setter
Contrary to what many assume, the red and white coat pattern came first in Irish Setters. Historical records from as early as the 17th century describe “setting spaniels” in Ireland with distinct red and white coloration. These early gundogs were highly valued for their ability to “set” or crouch down when they located game birds, allowing hunters to cast nets over both the dog and the birds (before firearms became the norm in hunting).
These original setters were bred for function rather than appearance, with the focus squarely on hunting ability. They needed to be visible to hunters across fields and moorlands (the white helped with visibility), hardy enough to work in rugged terrain, and possessing excellent scenting abilities. The aristocracy and landowners throughout Ireland prized these dogs for their versatile hunting skills.
The Decline and Near Extinction
By the 19th century, fashion in the dog world shifted toward the solid red coat, and selective breeding began focusing on producing the all-red variety we now know as the Irish Setter. The original red and white pattern fell out of favor, and by the early 20th century, the Irish Red and White Setter was perilously close to extinction.
The breed’s salvation came primarily through the efforts of dedicated Irish enthusiasts, particularly Rev. Noble Huston and Mrs. Maureen Cuddy, who worked diligently in the 1920s to find the remaining examples of the breed and rebuild the population. It was a close call—by some accounts, the breed was down to just a handful of dogs at its lowest point.
Modern Recognition and Revival
The Irish Red and White Setter’s comeback story is a heartening tale of preservation. After decades of careful breeding, the Irish Kennel Club officially recognized them as separate from the Irish Setter in 1944. However, it wasn’t until much later that international recognition followed. The breed gained FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) recognition in 1985, and the American Kennel Club finally welcomed the breed in 2009.
Today, while still relatively rare, the Irish Red and White Setter has a dedicated following who appreciate both its working abilities and its distinctive appearance. The breed remains more common in Ireland and the UK than in North America, but interest is steadily growing as more people discover these beautiful dogs.
Unmistakable Appearance: The Painted Sporting Dog
Irish Red and White Setters have a look that’s both striking and functional—a perfect example of how working dogs can be both beautiful and practical. Let’s explore the distinctive features that make this breed stand out in the sporting group.
The Signature Coat Pattern
The most obvious distinguishing feature is right there in the name—the red and white coat pattern that makes these dogs instantly recognizable:
- Base color is white with clearly defined solid red patches
- Red color can range from deep chestnut to a lighter russet shade
- Pattern should be well broken (meaning both colors are clearly visible)
- Some light freckling or ticking may appear on the white areas
- Face typically shows both colors, often with a blaze or star on the forehead
Unlike breeds where the pattern is random, the Irish Red and White has a somewhat predictable color distribution. The red patches are usually found on the head, ears, and body, while legs, chest, and belly tend to have more white. This pattern isn’t just aesthetically pleasing—it served the practical purpose of making the dogs more visible to hunters across fields and rough terrain.
Build and Structure: The Athletic Working Dog
Beyond their color, Irish Red and White Setters have an athletic, well-balanced build that showcases their working heritage:
- Medium to large-sized dogs: Males stand 24.5-26 inches, females 22.5-24 inches
- Weight typically ranges from 50-75 pounds
- Strong, muscular build without being heavy or cumbersome
- Athletic body with good depth of chest for endurance
- Straight, strong back and powerful hindquarters
Compared to the Irish Setter, the Red and White typically has a slightly sturdier, more substantial frame—reflecting their continued breeding for working ability rather than extreme refinement for the show ring. They’re built for endurance and function in the field, with every aspect of their structure serving their original purpose as hunting dogs.
The Expressive Face
Irish Red and White Setters have a gentle, intelligent expression that reveals much about their character:
- Slightly rounded skull with well-defined stop
- Dark hazel or dark brown eyes with kind, alert expression
- Moderately long muzzle that’s neither snipey nor square
- Ears set level with the eyes, hanging close to the head
- Overall expression combines alertness with gentleness
There’s something particularly charming about their eyes—thoughtful and warm, with an eagerness that suggests they’re ready for whatever adventure you might propose. The breed standard calls for a “kindly expression,” and it’s a perfect description of the look these dogs carry.
Coat Texture and Maintenance
Unlike some sporting breeds with elaborate coats, the Irish Red and White Setter has a practical, medium-length coat that’s designed for function in the field:
- Flat, silky texture without curl or woolliness
- Moderate feathering on ears, chest, legs, and belly
- Shorter, finer hair on the head and front of legs
- Weather-resistant qualities for work in varied conditions
This practical coat requires regular but not excessive grooming—making them somewhat lower maintenance than their Irish Setter cousins (though still not a wash-and-wear breed by any means!).
Temperament and Personality: The Balanced Sporting Dog
When it comes to personality, Irish Red and White Setters strike a wonderful balance between work ethic and family companionship. They combine the enthusiasm of sporting dogs with a gentle, affectionate nature that makes them delightful family members.
The Working Character
At their core, these are working dogs with strong hunting instincts and drives:
- Energetic and enthusiastic, especially outdoors
- Strong prey drive and natural hunting abilities
- Excellent scenting capabilities
- Intelligent problem-solvers in the field
- Determined and focused when working
Many breed enthusiasts note that Irish Red and Whites have maintained more of their original working character than their red cousins, who have been bred more extensively for the show ring. This means they tend to be more focused and biddable in hunting and field work, with strong natural instincts that require proper outlets.
The Family Side
At home, Irish Red and White Setters show their gentle, affectionate nature:
- Devoted and loving with family members
- Excellent with children when properly socialized
- Good-natured and friendly with visitors
- Typically get along well with other dogs
- Sensitive and responsive to their owners’ emotions
Unlike some working breeds that remain somewhat aloof, Irish Red and Whites genuinely want to be part of family life. They form strong bonds with their people and thrive on inclusion in daily activities. One owner described her Red and White as “the ultimate family dog with an off switch”—able to transition from enthusiastic field work to relaxed family companion.
The Maturity Timeline
It’s worth noting that like many sporting breeds, Irish Red and White Setters take their time maturing mentally:
- Puppyhood extends well into the first year
- Adolescent “silliness” can continue until 2-3 years of age
- Full mental maturity often doesn’t arrive until 3+ years
This extended youth means living with a young Irish Red and White requires patience and consistent training. However, many owners find their playful spirit endearing, and most maintain a certain youthful quality throughout their lives—aging gracefully but never quite losing their enthusiasm for life’s simple pleasures.
Differences from the Irish Setter
People familiar with both breeds often note some temperament differences between the Red and White and their solid red cousins:
- Typically more focused and less distractible
- Often more responsive to training
- Generally less hyperactive in the home
- May be slightly more reserved with strangers (though still friendly)
- Usually maintain stronger hunting instincts
These differences reflect their separate breeding paths over the past century—with Irish Red and Whites maintained primarily as working dogs until relatively recently, while Irish Setters have been bred more extensively for show and companionship.
Living With an Irish Red and White Setter: The Day-to-Day Reality
Beyond the history and breed characteristics, what’s it actually like to share your home with an Irish Red and White Setter? Let’s explore the practical aspects of life with these distinctive dogs.
Exercise Requirements: Enthusiastic Athletes
As sporting dogs bred for endurance in the field, Irish Red and White Setters have significant exercise needs:
- At least 60-90 minutes of active exercise daily
- Prefer varied activities rather than just leash walks
- Excel at running, hiking, swimming, and retrieving games
- Benefit from off-leash time in secure areas
- Need mental exercise alongside physical outlets
Without adequate exercise, these dogs can become frustrated, bored, and potentially destructive. They’re not suited to sedentary lifestyles or being left alone for long periods with nothing to do. However, when their exercise needs are met, they typically settle well in the home—many owners report that their dogs are quite calm and relaxed indoors after sufficient activity.
My friend Katie, who has two Irish Red and Whites, swears by the “weekend adventure, weekday maintenance” approach—big hikes or field training on weekends, with shorter but intense exercise sessions on weekdays. She says, “A tired setter is a good setter!”
Training Approach: Responsive but Independent
Training an Irish Red and White Setter is generally rewarding but requires understanding their particular learning style:
- Intelligent and capable of learning complex tasks
- Respond best to positive, reward-based methods
- Can be sensitive to harsh corrections
- Benefit from consistency and clear expectations
- May show some independence and problem-solving
Unlike some sporting breeds that will do anything to please their handlers, Irish Red and Whites maintain a bit of independent thinking—a quality that served them well as hunting partners who needed to make decisions in the field. This doesn’t make them stubborn so much as thoughtful; they want to understand the purpose behind commands.
Early socialization is crucial for these dogs, exposing them to various people, animals, environments, and situations during their formative months. This helps them develop into well-adjusted adults who can adapt to different circumstances with confidence.
Grooming Needs: Manageable but Regular
The Irish Red and White’s coat requires regular maintenance to keep it healthy and looking its best:
- Brushing 2-3 times weekly to prevent tangles
- Special attention to feathered areas that mat more easily
- Regular ear cleaning (those pendulous ears can trap moisture)
- Occasional trimming around feet, ears, and for a neat appearance
- Bathing when necessary, typically every 4-6 weeks
They do shed seasonally, though not as heavily as some double-coated breeds. Many owners find that regular brushing keeps the shedding manageable. The good news is that their coat doesn’t tend to pick up burrs and debris as readily as some longer-coated sporting breeds, making post-adventure cleanup less daunting.
Health Considerations: A Generally Robust Breed
Irish Red and White Setters are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 11-15 years. Like all purebreds, they have some breed-specific health concerns to be aware of:
- Hip Dysplasia: Common in many medium/large breeds
- Posterior Polar Cataract (PPC): An inherited eye condition
- von Willebrand’s Disease: A blood clotting disorder
- Hypothyroidism: Underactive thyroid function
- Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency (CLAD): An immune system disorder
Fortunately, responsible breeders test for these conditions, which has helped reduce their incidence. The breed has benefited from a relatively diverse gene pool during its restoration, avoiding some of the health issues that affect more popular breeds with smaller genetic diversity.
Regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate nutrition, maintaining healthy weight, and providing adequate exercise all contribute to your Irish Red and White Setter’s wellbeing and longevity.
Family Life: How Do They Fit In?
Irish Red and White Setters can make wonderful family dogs for the right households. Their affectionate nature and enthusiasm for life often make them excellent companions, but like any breed, they have specific characteristics that affect their fit in different family situations.
With Children: Playful Partners
These setters typically do very well with children:
- Patient and gentle with kids they know
- Playful and energetic—perfect playmates for active children
- Tolerant of the noise and commotion that comes with family life
- Protective without aggression
- Form strong bonds with “their” children
That said, their size and enthusiasm mean supervision is important with very young children—they can accidentally knock over toddlers in a moment of excitement. They’re typically best suited to families with older, school-age children who can participate in the dog’s exercise and training.
As with any breed, it’s essential to teach children how to interact respectfully with dogs and to supervise interactions, especially initially. When raised together, Irish Red and White Setters often develop beautiful relationships with the children in their families, becoming loyal protectors and playmates.
Multi-Pet Households: Generally Compatible
For families with other pets, Irish Red and Whites can adapt well in most situations:
- Usually get along wonderfully with other dogs
- Can learn to live peacefully with cats, especially when raised together
- May have prey drive toward small animals like rabbits or hamsters
- Benefit from proper introductions and supervision initially
Their hunting background means they do have prey drive, so households with birds or small mammals should exercise caution and never leave the dog unsupervised with these pets. However, many Irish Red and Whites distinguish between “household” animals and “prey” with proper training and socialization.
Ideal Home Environment
The perfect home for an Irish Red and White Setter includes:
- Active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities
- Secure fenced yard for safe exercise
- Time and commitment for exercise, training, and companionship
- Appreciation for a dog who wants to be involved in family life
- Patience for an extended adolescence
They’re typically not well-suited for:
- Sedentary lifestyles with minimal exercise
- Homes where they’d be left alone for extended periods
- Urban apartments without access to adequate exercise areas
- People seeking an immediately mature, calm companion
While they can adapt to various living situations provided their needs are met, Irish Red and White Setters thrive in environments where they can express their natural abilities and energy levels in positive ways.
Finding Your Irish Red and White Setter: A Rare Treasure
If you’ve decided an Irish Red and White Setter might be the perfect addition to your family, be prepared for some patience in your search—these dogs are significantly rarer than many breeds, particularly in North America.
Working with Reputable Breeders
Finding a responsible breeder is particularly important with rare breeds:
- Look for breeders who perform health testing (hips, eyes, and genetic conditions)
- Ask about their involvement with breed clubs and conservation efforts
- Inquire about their breeding goals and philosophy
- Expect to be thoroughly interviewed about your lifestyle and expectations
- Be prepared to wait—reputable breeders may have infrequent litters
The Irish Red and White Setter Association of America is an excellent resource for finding breeders in the United States. In other countries, national breed clubs provide similar assistance. Due to their rarity, you may need to travel some distance or even consider importing a puppy, which adds complexity to the process.
Expect to pay $1,500-3,000 for a well-bred puppy from health-tested parents, reflecting the care and expertise that goes into breeding these dogs responsibly.
Rescue and Adoption: Less Common but Possible
Because they’re relatively rare, Irish Red and White Setters don’t frequently appear in rescue situations. However, opportunities do occasionally arise:
- Breed-specific rescue organizations exist in some countries
- Some dogs may need rehoming due to owner circumstances (not behavior issues)
- General setter rescues sometimes have Red and Whites
- Breed clubs often maintain rescue contacts
If you’re open to an adult dog, reaching out to breed clubs about rescue possibilities can be a wonderful way to provide a home for a dog in need. These organizations can also help evaluate whether an available dog would be a good match for your specific situation.
Questions to Ask Before Committing
Before bringing an Irish Red and White Setter into your life, honestly assess:
- Can you provide the daily exercise these athletic dogs require?
- Do you have the time and patience for training and socialization?
- Is your home environment suitable for an active sporting breed?
- Are you prepared for the grooming requirements?
- Can you make a 12-15 year commitment to this dog?
- Are you willing to work with a rarer breed that may have fewer resources available?
Taking the time for this self-assessment helps ensure a successful match between your lifestyle and the needs of these special dogs. Remember that responsible ownership means meeting the dog’s needs, not just fulfilling your desire for a particular breed.
Conclusion: Is an Irish Red and White Setter Right for You?
After exploring the world of Irish Red and White Setters, you might be wondering if this distinctive breed is the right match for your lifestyle and home. Let’s wrap up with some final thoughts.
Irish Red and White Setters offer a special combination of working ability, striking appearance, and gentle temperament. Their rich heritage as Ireland’s original setter gives them a unique place in canine history, while their more recent preservation story showcases the dedication of breed enthusiasts who refused to let these dogs disappear. For active individuals and families who appreciate a versatile sporting dog with a loving, family-oriented nature, they can be wonderful companions.
However, they’re not for everyone. Their exercise needs are substantial, they require consistent training and socialization, and finding one may involve significant effort due to their rarity. They’re not suited to sedentary lifestyles or homes where they would spend long periods alone without activity or companionship.
The perfect Irish Red and White Setter owner is someone who:
- Enjoys active outdoor pursuits and will include their dog
- Appreciates a dog with both working abilities and family devotion
- Has the patience for training a thoughtful, sometimes independent breed
- Is willing to invest time in finding a responsibly-bred dog
- Understands the commitment to maintaining these dogs as a distinct breed
If you’re considering an Irish Red and White Setter, connect with breed clubs and current owners to learn more about the realities of life with these special dogs. Attend dog shows where the breed is exhibited, and if possible, meet adult dogs to get a feel for their temperament and energy level.
Whether you ultimately welcome an Irish Red and White Setter into your home or simply appreciate learning about this distinctive breed, these dogs deserve recognition for their unique place in the canine world. They represent an important piece of Ireland’s sporting heritage and a success story in breed preservation—a living legacy that continues to win hearts with their distinctive appearance and endearing character.
Here at pawtrix.wiki, we believe every dog breed has its perfect match in terms of human companions. If you’re drawn to these striking red and white beauties with their balanced temperament and sporting heritage, you might have found a truly special canine partner—one that will enrich your life with their energy, intelligence, and devoted companionship for many years to come.
