Irish Red and White Setter

Contrary to what some people might think the Irish Red and White Setter is a distinct breed, not just a different colored version of the Irish Setter.

The Red and White has been known in Ireland since the 17th century and precedes the popular Irish Setter. In the late 1800s breeders began to prefer the flashier solid red variety and the Red and White started to be ignored. Due to this shift, the Red and White Setter nearly became extinct. An early 20th century a Northern Ireland clergyman, Noble Huston, and Mr. and Mrs. Will Cuddy revived the breed.

The Red and White is a pointing bird dog which means they take a pointing stance when they spot birds in the field. The Red and White cover the ground thoroughly and have an ingrained curiosity, investigating every area in which game may be present.

This breed has long silky fine hair called "feathering." Their coat base color is white with solid red patches, and sometimes they have flecking around the face and feet. They need minimal brushing or trimming, and their owners tend to prefer a natural appearance rather than a groomed one.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: The appearance is strong and powerful, well balanced and proportioned without lumber; athletic rather than racy with an aristocratic, keen and intelligent attitude.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height- males, 24.5 to 26 inches, females, 22.5 to 24 inches. The length of the body from point of shoulders to base of tail is not shorter than the height at the top of the withers.

Fun Fact

Ireland included the Irish Red and White Setter with the Irish Setter on a postage stamp during the early 1900s.