Irish Red and White Setter

Genetic Predispositions and Health

The gene pool of the Irish Red and White Setter is considered to be relatively small, so genetic screening for inherited disorders is important to help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs, as well as assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care. This breed is prone to hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and eye disorders such as progressive retinal atrophy and posterior polar (back of the eye) cataracts. They can also be affected by globoid cell leukodystrophy (Irish setter type), as well as inherited blood disorders such as von Willebrand Disease and Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency.

Personality and Behavior

The Irish Red and White Setter is known for its friendly and affectionate nature. They are highly social dogs that enjoy the company of their family and do well with children and other pets. As a gundog, they have an instinctual drive to hunt and retrieve, making them energetic and enthusiastic during playtime and outdoor activities. Early socialization and training are crucial to ensure they grow into well-mannered and obedient companions.

Pointer-Spaniel Lineage

A canine genetic lineage is a group of individuals or entire breeds that descended from common ancestors predating modern breed formation. Often these lineages are associated with a ‘type’ of dog with a unique historical working role and associated behaviors (e.g., herding, scent hunting, etc.).

The Pointer-Spaniel lineage encompasses both pointer and spaniel breeds. They were both bred for their specialized hunting abilities in Europe. Pointers locate game and freeze in a stance, called “pointing”, to indicate to their hunter that birds are close by. Spaniels were bred to find game in underbrush and retrieve it. Both pointer and spaniel breeds were bred to enhance their strong senses, trainability, and endurance as these are advantageous in a hunting partner. Spaniels and pointers are known for their strong work ethic, ability to work closely with humans and agility. These dogs’ ability to work closely with their hunters makes them an asset during a hunt because they follow direction well and know how their hunters want them to proceed.

Example breeds with ancestry from this lineage include English Cocker Spaniel, Irish Red Setter, and German Shorthaired Pointer.

Fun Facts

An Irish Red and White Setter named "Caractacus Potts" holds the Guinness World Record for the largest number of tricks performed by a dog. He showcased an impressive repertoire of 105 tricks!

The Irish Red and White Setter has a beautiful, silky coat that is medium-length and feathered. The coat is flat, straight, and water-resistant, helping them cope with various weather conditions during their hunting activities.

References

https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/c_dg_irish_red_and_white_setter https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/IRISH-RED-AND-WHITE-SETTER-330.html https://www.ukcdogs.com/irish-red-and-white-setter
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/irish-red-and-white-setter/
https://www.pawprintgenetics.com/products/breeds/124/ https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/panel/irish-setter-health-panel