![Irish Setter Dog Breed](/sites/default/files/styles/square_medium_440x440/public/2022-07/Irish-Setter.jpg?itok=AcNSQmw4)
Family-friendly: | 5/5 |
Exercise needs: | 5/5 |
Easy to train: | 4/5 |
Tolerates being alone: | 2/5 |
Likes other pets: | 5/5 |
Energy level: | 5/5 |
Grooming needs: | 3/5 |
Shedding: | 4/5 |
The Irish Setter dog can suffer from:
- Hip dysplasia
- Gastric dilatation volvulus
- Canine leucocyte adhesion deficiency which is an inherited disorder where the immune system does not work properly.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy which is an inherited disorder where part of the eye degenerates and wastes away which can result in blindness.
atopy.
- Osteosarcomas¹ which are a serious type of bone cancer.
- Epilepsy² which is a condition where abnormal brain function can lead to seizures which damage the brain.
- Entropion³ which is a painful eye condition where the eyelids roll inwards.
Priority Kennel Club health schemes and testing:
- Hip dysplasia screening scheme
- Eye screening scheme
- DNA testing for canine leucocyte adhesion deficiency and progressive retinal atrophy which tests whether or not a dog has the potential to be affected by these conditions.
¹M. Szewczyk et al, 'What do we know about canine osteosarcoma treatment? – review', Sept 2014, Veterinary Research Communications
² F. Gruenenfelder et al, 'Research Communication Seizures and Sleep Disorders', May 2009, Handbook of Veterinary Practice
³I. Broek, 'Pedigree analysis and optimisation of the breeding program in the Irish Setter', June 2017, BSc Thesis Animal Breeding and Genetics
The well-bred, well-socialised and well-trained Irish Setter is extraordinarily sweet and makes an affectionate, loyal family pet. Early exposure to cats and careful supervision is essential if they are to share a home with them - and they may not be safe with strange cats or any small furry animals.
Being terribly friendly, this is not a good guard dog, though he will announce the presence of a visitor. The Irish Setter remains playful throughout his life - one of his more endearing traits. They are often thought of as being a bit ditzy and brainless - or even highly strung - but this is generally because people buy them for their glamour and underestimate how much exercise and input this working dog needs to stay healthy and happy.