The Irish Red and White Setter is not just another color variation of the Irish Setter, rather he is an entirely separate breed. He is touted for his gun dog abilities and effortless stamina in the field. He also makes an excellent companion with a joyful and friendly temperament, provided that he is given exercise and training. These setters can become destructive if they aren’t given a job to do. They were bred to work, after all – not lie around the house all day.
Irish Red and White Setters are a very active breed requiring plenty of activity (they have been described as “tireless”). Ideally, they would be taken hunting on a regular basis but if this isn’t a possibility, other energy-challenging activities can be substituted, such as agility and obedience. This is in addition to regular jogging and free-running in the yard. Spirited and determined, this pointing breed is always happy to work! Males are said to be more active in general, but this is dependent upon the individual dog. Because of their high activity level, this breed is generally not recommended for apartment living.
The playful Red and White is good with children, but may be too boisterous for toddler-age kids. They also get along well with other dogs, as well as cats as long as they are raised with them. They are vastly loyal toward their owners but have a silly, clownish side as well. This is an affectionate breed that will always let you know that you are loved! With strangers, they are equally friendly and accepting (making them poor guard dogs). While they are stable enough to live in busy family settings, without enough time dedicated to them they will add to any household chaos.
Red and Whites are very versatile and trainable, although a touch of patience may be required, particularly when the dogs are in the adolescent stage. It is important to start the training while the dog is still young, so that by the time he has matured (at 3 or 4 years of age), he will be easy to handle. As long as training is consistent and fair, however, they can learn how to be very polite members of the household. They tend to become great breed ambassadors when out in public, as a trained Red and White is often a joy to be around. Furthermore, these dogs tend to learn fast – sometimes faster than a trainer might expect!
One of the key features of the Irish Red and White Setter is his beautifully marked coat – always red “islands” splashed on a white background. Although it is medium-long in length, the coat shouldn’t be too difficult to keep groomed. Brushing it out 2-3 times a week will keep it free of mats, and bathing it when necessary (once a month or so) will keep it clean. Most coats are fairly easy to take care of as long as they are looked after regularly. When well taken care of, the coat of the IRWS will help to keep him happy in cool weather – a temperature that these dogs particularly love.
Because of their activity level and social nature, the Red and White does not make a good kennel dog. He prefers to live inside the house where he can stretch his legs and visit with his owners. If there will be no people in the house for long periods of time (such as a working owner), it is highly recommended to get another dog to keep him company.
