10 Things To Know Before Getting An Irish Setter
Irish Setters look like they walked straight out of a painting—but don’t let that glamorous coat fool you. Life with one is less about elegance and more about enthusiasm. Before you fall for those soulful eyes, there are a few surprises you should probably hear first.
They’re Full Of Energy
They are bred to work long days in the field, and that drive hasn’t gone anywhere. They need one to two hours of high-energy activity every single day. Zoomies are normal, even indoors. Plus, mental stimulation is just as important. An exhausted Setter is usually a well-behaved one.
Grooming Isn’t Optional
That glossy red coat turns heads, but it tangles fast if ignored. Brushing at least three times a week keeps mats away, especially around the ears. Expect seasonal shedding and some upkeep between professional trims. They’re not low-maintenance dogs—beauty takes work. Still, it’s worth it when they shine.
They’re Late Bloomers Mentally
Irish Setters mature slowly and often keep their silly side well into adulthood. Some don’t settle down mentally until age three. You’ll need patience and steady training. Although they may look grown, they still act like puppies. It’s part of their charm and part of the challenge.
They’re Extremely People-Oriented
Privacy? Never heard of it. Irish Setters don’t believe in personal space—they’ll follow you into the bathroom if you let them. These velcro dogs don’t do well flying solo for hours. Leave them unattended too long, and you might return to a chewed shoe and a side of emotional guilt.
Training Must Be Fun
Harsh commands backfire with this breed. So, training goes best with positive reinforcement and short, upbeat sessions. Your Setter will respond well to food rewards and games. They’re smart but playful, so drills feel like a chore to them. Making learning fun turns the most stubborn moments into breakthroughs.
They Have A Strong Prey Drive
Their bird dog instincts are still sharp as they are bred to locate and retrieve game birds. Chasing smaller animals comes naturally, so open areas can be risky without proper recall training. A squirrel or rabbit can even trigger full-speed pursuit. Although early socialization helps, that urge to run is always just under the surface.
They Aren’t Great Guard Dogs
Irish Setters don’t typically bark much unless excited, and even then, it’s usually from joy. They’ll greet strangers with curiosity instead of suspicion. This friendly nature makes them poor protectors. While their size may look imposing, they’re gentle at heart, and intruders get tail wags instead of growls.
They’re Surprisingly Sensitive
This breed picks up on tone and mood quickly. Yelling or scolding can cause them to shut down emotionally. Setters do best with calm, confident correction and a stable household. Their emotional awareness is high and nurturing, which is a trait that builds trust. They don’t need force, they just need understanding.
They Need Room To Roam
Life in tight spaces can stress them out. A fenced yard gives them space to sprint and explore without risk. Even regular walks won’t wear them out like a few full-speed laps can. Irish Setters were made for open ground, not apartment corners. Give them space to move, and you’ll have attended to their strong hunting instinct.
They Excel In Dog Sports
Agility and tracking play to their natural strengths. Irish Setters are athletic and highly motivated, especially in active, social environments. Structured sports offer physical release and mental challenge. Training for competition can reveal hidden talents. For many owners, these activities deepen the bond in meaningful, lasting ways.
