Red Setter (Irish Setter) – Fun Facts

Well-tempered, gentle yet energetic with flaming red hair – it’s the Irish Red Setter!

History of the Red Setter

The Red Setter (also known as the Irish Setter) was originally bred as a hunting dog. Its job was to flush out game birds from the dense underbrush. They are one of the oldest gundog breeds in the world (one of nine native Irish dogs).

The breed is derived from the Irish Red and White Setter and an unknown solid red coloured dog.

The Irish Red Setter Club approved the breed standard in March 1886 in Dublin. This defined the dog’s physical attributes and how it should behave.

On the Bus

While America has the Greyhound Bus line, here in Ireland, our national bus service Bus Éireann, uses the Red Setter as its mascot and logo. The Irish connection is obvious. The company says the dog represents the “friendly, reliable and fast way in which the company aims to serve its customers.”

Appearance

They are, of course, instantly recognisable by their flaming red hair – officially defined as a rich chestnut colour.

Their hair is short on the top of the head and long and silky on their ears, chest, tummy and back of the legs. 

“Reds” are a medium-sized dog. Males are 58 – 67 cm at the withers and females are 55 cm – 62 cm

Red Setter Temperament

They are one of the most docile and gentle dog breeds. Reds are often found visiting hospitals, hospices and retirement homes, working as therapy and service dogs.

With a very sweet temperament, they love spending time with their families. They are an active breed and love having a job to do. However, they are not as high energy as other sporting dogs.

If you’re looking for a good-natured, docile and fun companion, the Red Setter could be just the dog for you.