Irish Setter: breed profile, temperament and grooming tips

The Irish Setter is a breed loved by many dog ​​breeders. This is a true friend, a charming and friendly companion, an excellent assistant on the hunt. Such dogs are distinguished by developed intelligence, active, but intelligent behavior and luxurious appearance. We get to know better the representatives of this breed, learn about the features of their character, requirements for maintenance and care.

The breed originated a very long time ago. According to experts, almost all dog dogs can be called descendants of the "ash". The youngest ancestors are pointers. It was from them that the black and white English setter was derived. It happened in the XVI century. Breeders later created an Irish setter, which was called red.

To breed a new breed, the genes of the best hunting dogs were used. These included Irish Water Spaniels, English Setters, Gordon Setters, and Bloodhounds. Different breeders competed among themselves, trying to get the best representatives of the new breed. So there were several varieties of setters.

It is known that there were both red-white "Irish" and red-black. As a result, the most successful version was recognized as a one-colored red six, casting red and chestnut tones. This color is fixed in the breed standard.

The main goal of the breeders was to create the perfect helper for hunting birds. This is not surprising, because in those days hunting was one of the main entertainments of aristocrats. In this regard, it was planned that the representatives of the future breed will be smart, fast, hardy, with excellent hearing and sense of smell.Also, such dogs should not be afraid of water, noise (for example, shots).

The work of breeders has borne fruit. The Irish setters were just that. Thanks to a set of excellent qualities, coupled with a friendly character, pets quickly gained popularity.

The participation of the "Irish" in exhibitions began in the 50s of the XIX century. The lack of an approved standard made it difficult for judges to evaluate dogs, but it was impossible to ignore the merits of dogs.

In the 70s, the first official breed clubs began to appear. First it happened in England, then in Ireland. American experts divided the breed into 2 subspecies. The first included show-class pets, whose main task was to participate in exhibitions. The second united working animals.

Russian breeders, on the contrary, sought to combine all the qualities in one pet. As a result, hunting dogs with a calm character and excellent appearance were bred. It was such an international standard that was approved in Dublin in the 80s of the XIX century.

Today, the “Red Irish” is still very popular. They are brought not only by hunting lovers, but also ordinary dog ​​breeders who like active, but restrained in behavior animals with a good disposition.

The thoroughbred Irish setter is a refined animal with long legs and a proud posture. Dog movements are swift, but smooth. The body is proportionally developed, muscular. Animal hair, like an atlas, shimmers in the sun with all shades of orange, red and brown. The splendor and richness of the coat depends on the line of the breed. Workers look a bit more modest than fellow showers.

The height of the male setters at the withers is from 58 to 68 cm. The height of the female individuals is from 55 to 63 cm. The weight of the animals varies from 26 to 32 kg. Girls are more petite and elegant. Boys are stronger and more spectacular.

The average life expectancy of Irish setters is 12 years. Some individuals live up to 15 years.

Consider the characteristics of thoroughbred individuals in more detail.

The dog's face is narrow, elongated, almost square at the nose. Cranial part with pronounced superciliary arches, smooth nape. The correct bite is “classic scissors”. The nose is dark, medium in size. The eyes are almond-shaped, slightly slanted. The standard color is hazel or hazel. Look good-natured. Ears low set, medium length, hanging down on the sides of the head. They are soft to the touch, well pubescent.

The neck is rather long, strong, but graceful. It allows the dog to hold its head high, providing good visibility and regal posture. The body is well proportioned. The back is flat, the stomach is tucked up. The tail is of medium length, low located, pubescent, freely hanging.

Paws are long, even, muscular, standing parallel to each other. Hind legs give a powerful push. Moves when walking and running are springy, soft.

Adult dogs have a beautiful smooth coat. On the head, neck and back, the coat is short. The outside of the legs, ears, chest, stomach and tail are decorated with long silky fringe.

Solid chestnut color is preferred. Black shades are unacceptable. Small light spots on the neck, chest, forehead or face are allowed.

It is also worth noting the exterior signs that may lead to disqualification of the dog at the show.The disadvantages include too long or curly hair, a wide muzzle, a short neck, crowded tubes or hanging ears with mugs. Also, close-set eyes, back irregularities, and too thin a sickle-shaped tail are considered defects. Deviations in color, depigmentation of lips, nose are not allowed.

The Irish Setter is a very energetic dog. Puppies are especially active, which is impossible not to notice in a city apartment.

Adults behave with dignity. They show activity in suitable situations - for a walk, during games. Nonetheless dogs retain emotionality until a venerable age. They are very curious, affectionate and sociable.

At home, the dog can follow the owner on the heels of interest in all his affairs. At the same time, unobtrusively, but persistently, he will demand attention and affection. Animals love children. The dog is able to become a true friend for any member of the family. The other Irish pets are also welcome. If for the whole day the dog was unable to communicate with anyone, he may be sad.

Representatives of this breed are too trusting to strangers. They easily make contact, are not aggressive.

True, at the same time they do not become assertive, but simply go to the trick.

Setters love to walk, frolic in nature. In summer they are not averse to swimming, therefore walks to the open water will be a real holiday for them.

Goodwill and even some naivety of a dog are good because a person acquires an affectionate and gentle four-legged pet. On the other hand, this negates the watchdog qualities of the Irish setters. If you need a stern defender, it is better to choose a different breed.

As for hunting skills, here the "Irishman" may come in handy. The main thing is to choose a puppy from the "working" pedigree line. Such a dog will perfectly cope with the detection of game.

The animals are quite athletic. Therefore, if you are a homebody and you need a calm pet that needs a 15-20-minute walk, this breed is not for you.

It is not worth it to get such a dog for those who work hard and rarely go home. Of course, if you have a large family, its other members will be able to keep company with a furry pet.

And finally, it is worth noting that the chic appearance of the Irish red setter requires investment of time, effort and even finance. To keep the hair of the handsome four-legged man smooth and shiny, you need to regularly comb it and wash it using special products. Do not underestimate the role of quality nutrition and vitamins.

In the past, these dogs were considered purely hunting. They slept in sheds or in the open air, without any discomfort. Now more and more often setters are turned on as companions. Of course, this affects the conditions of animals.

"Irish" will feel great at home.

An acceptable alternative is a city apartment. However, in this case, a comfortable couch and tasty food will not be enough. The pet needs intense physical activity. This means that daily long walks with active games, jogging and exercise should be part of your life.

Dog walking should occur twice a day. The minimum duration of the walk is 1 hour. It’s good if you can devote it to 1.5-2 hours. Representatives of this breed are very patient.They can calmly wait for going out to relieve themselves.

In addition to the cultural behavior of the "Irish", their owners are also pleased with the absence of the smell of "dog". At the same time, pets practically do not fade. Due to this, the wool is not annoying when in the air and is invisible on things.

Begin with an important point. A representative of this breed just needs a special stand for a bowl. These dogs are distinguished by fairly long legs, therefore every time bend over to eat, they are uncomfortable. In addition, it can even be dangerous for the health of the pet (there is a risk of getting an inversion of the intestine).

As for the calorie content of the diet, it should be calculated taking into account how much energy the dog spends during the day. Individuals receiving large physical activities daily need a high-calorie menu. This is especially true for dogs participating in sporting events, hunting. Show dogs living in apartments have fewer calories.

A good feed should contain at least 16% fat. In addition, when choosing to pay attention to high-quality ready-made feed of a premium class.

Natural nutrition is also acceptable. It can be meat, offal, fish fillet. These basic products give the dog a rate of 20 g per 1 kg of pet body weight. Complement the diet of porridge. Buckwheat and oatmeal are considered especially useful. You can include seasonal local vegetables on the menu.

Also, adult "Irish" can sometimes be given chicken eggs, skim milk products. Special vitamins will be useful. When selecting the latter, it is worth consulting with a veterinarian.

As for the nutrition of puppies, they are suitable for special food for a certain age group. If the owner prefers natural feeding of the pet, then you can give the kids meat or bone broth with the addition of cereals.

Hygienic procedures are necessary not only to maintain the beautiful appearance of the pet, but also for its health. Primarily, should be prepared for the thorough care of the hair of the Irish setter. Long hair fall off, get confused. Sometimes nodes even form. In this regard, it is important to purchase a special comb / brush with natural bristles for regular processing of the dog’s coat. You need to do this every day.

It will not be easy for owners of setters during the flowering period of various plants. After a walk on the green area, you must carefully examine the pet for the presence of thorns, seeds of plants and just blades of grass, entangled in the "coat" of the dog.

Water procedures should be performed approximately once a week or slightly less. Be sure to buy a professional dog shampoo. If you are going to take part in exhibitions, then not do without air conditioning. Some breeders also use natural oils to achieve the effect of a satin, flowing wool, shimmering in the rays of light.

Thinning wool is another important procedure that allows you to give the appearance of a dog more gloss. To do this, use thinning scissors. This is not a full haircut, but only a refinement of the pet's fur coat, its easy adjustment. Of course, it is better to entrust this business to a professional.

In autumn and spring, there is a lot of dirt on the streets. Therefore, it is advisable to wear the “Irishman” in a special protective overalls before a walk.It can be sewn to order in an atelier for animals, purchased in a store or made independently if you have the skills for such work. Any durable waterproof fabric is suitable for a dog suit.

Ear and eye care is required, as is the case with any other breed. They must be periodically examined and, if necessary, cleaned with a cotton swab and veterinary lotion. You can wipe the mucous membrane of the eye with infusions of herbs (for example, chamomile).

Irish setter ears hang down on the sides of the head. In this regard, they are poorly ventilated. You can help your pet by creating artificial ventilation. To do this, gently take the dog’s ear and wave it intensively.

So that the animal does not have problems with the teeth, it is necessary to brush them 2-3 times a week, and also give the dog solid food. Also in a specialized store it is worth buying a stick that cleans the dog’s mouth from tartar.

“Irish” do not like asphalt tracks too much. They prefer to run on sand, earth and grass. Therefore, natural grinding of claws does not occur. Clipping is done 1-2 times a month.

Raising an Irish setter is not easy. Although representatives of this breed are quite smart, they are difficult to train. The problem is violent temperament, activity and some dog stubbornness. It is difficult for them to concentrate on one thing for a long time, they want to do something more interesting. However, if you take the learning process seriously and draw up an individual program, there is a chance to get good results.

The training course usually includes the main commands: "sit", "lie", "fu". The dog is taught to bring an object by the “aport” command, to walk next to the owner while walking on a leash, or without it.

Representatives of this breed tend to run away, so it is extremely important to teach a dog to implicitly execute this command.

Too zealous in training is not worth it. As already mentioned, the "Irish" does not like the mechanical execution of the same actions. It is worth taking this into account and praising the pet, even if he did what was required of him, not right away or a little bit wrong. For such a self-sufficient animal, even this will be progress.

Scold the dog for refusing training is not worth it. It is important to show firmness and perseverance, showing the pet who is in charge. At the same time, you can’t offend him. If a four-legged friend refuses to study, you can go for a trick. It is only necessary to show how distressing you are his unwillingness to deal with you. A companion dog cannot stand a remorse and in 9 out of 10 cases will “take pity” on you.

To wean kids from hooliganism with threats and screams also does not work. Punishment can only aggravate the situation. Here it is necessary to accept as a fact hyperactivity and uncontrollability of the breed at a young age. You can correct the behavior, again, being smart. For example, you can replace puppy leprosy with physical activity. After a long walk with active games and running, the fluffy simply will not have the strength to leprosy. He will fall asleep peacefully in his corner with gratitude for the cheerful day that the owner gave him.

As for hunting, here the Irish setter can be very useful. By nature, the dog is passionate, easy to climb. However, he relies more on instinct than on hearing. If it is not easy to find prey, he quickly loses interest in the process due to the lack of results and impressions. With such an impatient assistant, it is better to hunt only in trusted places.For a long and consistent search for game, the English setter is more suitable.

More useful and interesting information about the dogs of the breed Irish Setter can be found in the next video.