Irish Setter

The Irish Setter is high-spirited, affectionate, and endlessly people-oriented. Bred to range far and find birds for the gun, they carry real athletic drive and a playful, sometimes slow-to-mature outlook that can last well into adulthood — part of their charm rather than a flaw. They are sensitive and clever, and respond best to upbeat, reward-based training with plenty of variety to keep that quick mind engaged.

These are companion-hearted dogs that thrive on being part of everything the family does. They are typically enthusiastic with people, sociable with other dogs, and gentle and playful with children, which makes them wonderful family dogs when given structure and outlets. Because they bond so closely, they do best with gradual, patient practice at being left alone, so long and lonely stretches don't become a source of distress.

All that energy needs somewhere to go. An Irish Setter is happiest with generous daily exercise — running in a secure area, brisk walks, fetch, and dog sports all suit them — paired with mental work that rewards their intelligence. Their long, silky, feathered coat sheds seasonally and needs regular brushing to stay free of mats, especially behind the ears and on the legs, and the ears benefit from routine checks to keep them clean and comfortable.