Irish Setter
History
The country of origin for this noble dog is, of
course, Ireland. The Irish developed an beautiful setter
dog of red and white color specifically
to hunt the rugged terrain of the Irish moors. Speculation
suggests a blend of English Setter, Pointer, Gordon Setter,
both land and water spaniel as probable contributors to
the Irish Red Setter which became well established as a
recognizable breed by the year 1800. The red setter from
Ireland was originally a red and white dog, and it was
only in the early 19th century that public demand
for solid red prevailed over red and white, but many
modern breed representatives carry traces of white on chest,
foreskull,
muzzle or feet which is duly accorded by the native Irish
Standard. Some hint that solid red marks a lesser dog in
the field.
The Irish Setter reached American shores in the 1860's
as an import of medium size and outstanding
working ability. For a time, the The Irish Reds ruled in
field trials and were much beloved of American
sportsmen.
The 1890's brought about
a great change in the Irish Setter as this
outstanding
hunting
dog
was taken
out
of the
fields
and into the show ring. Breeders who were not interested
in working them in the field began to breed Irish Setters
for the ring. The result was an increase in size, coat
and showiness. Irish Setters became an almost forgotten
hunting breed, except for a few diehards who refused to
let go.
Today for all intents and purposes we have two very different
types of Irish Setters. The field type which is a smaller,
lighter boned dog while his show counterpart is larger,
heavier boned and carries much more coat. The field fanciers
maintain that the increased size found in the show setter
reduces his ability to work swiftly and efficiently in
the field. Show breeders on the other hand, maintain that
correct structure will assure the Irish Setter is able
to do what is necessary in the field regardless of size.
However, one thing is for certain; if you plan to bring
an Irish Setter into your family, remember that the Irish
Setter is a sporting dog. He is quite capable of working
in the
field all day, and does not necessarily make a very good
couch potato. With plenty of exercise, the Irish Setter
does very well in the house; nevertheless, he still needs
some sort of job to do. Obedience, conformation, agility,
therapy, or field work, are all appropriate outlets for
this energetic dog.
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