Irish Red and White Setters: their coats are quite like the engaging Irish lore they hail from – stunning, complex, and oh so sure to leave you with a memorable imprint! One look at their soft, silk-like fur and expressive eyes, and you’ll find yourself grappling to resist the urge to promptly include these canine beauties in your household! Equally distinctive and special in their enchantment is also the frequent question ‘tailing,’ these mesmerizing creatures. You’ve guessed it right; it’s – Do they shed a lot?
Well, the answer is a fairly simple yes. But don’t dismay just yet. There’s so much about the Irish Red and White Setter’s shedding behavior as well as some exceptional ways of managing it. We’re about to delve into an engaging journey filled with some quirky, interesting facts.
Backdrop first! Few know that the Irish Red and White Setter is one of the oldest breeds of working dogs. These dogs are excellent hunters, who used their white coats as camouflage amongst the Irish heather, with red patches making them stand out to their human hunting companions. Today, they are loved equally for their unique coat’s aesthetics and their hardworking, friendly nature.
Now let’s talk shedding. While some dog breeds are known for their hypoallergenic coats, the Irish Red and White Setter is not one of them. Their coats are double-layered – a softer, dense undercoat to keep them warm in the cold Irish winters, and a smoother, longer outer layer. This makes them wonderfully warm and fluffy companions, but it also means they do shed. And they shed quite a lot! Particularly during fall and spring, when they ‘blow out’ their coats, preparing for the new season. They remold their fur much like nature does with the trees. It’s their way of complying with Mother Nature!
Are you dreaming about sharing your lounge with this Irish sensation? But the thought of luxurious red and white hairs embelishing, well, everything puts you off? No worries, appreciate shedding as a part of their natural charm. And remember, with the right care and grooming, shedding can be managed effectively.
Step one would be getting a high-quality dog brush and getting in the habit of some special ‘brush time’ with your furred buddy! An interesting fact – brushing your dog’s hair not only helps manage shedding, it also promotes a healthier coat, helps spread their natural oils, and surprisingly, reduces the amount of hair they ingest while self-grooming which can lead to hairballs. Yes, dogs can get hairballs too, much like their arch-nemeses – the cats!
Secondly, consistent grooming intervals can be your knight in shining armor. Professional groomers are skilled and equipped in managing ‘shedding seasons’ and can ensure your Irish Red and White Setter looks their radiant, beautiful best throughout the year.
Lastly, a healthy diet significantly influences your dog’s coat health. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids promote healthier, shinier coats, and less shedding. So a little attention on their platter can work wonders for both your pup’s health and your home cleanliness!
Further tip? Invest in a good vacuum cleaner! Make sure you vacuum your home regularly to keep your home as fur-free as possible. And guess what, some dogs even find the vacuuming process fun!
To sum it up, though the Irish Red and White Setters do shed, they bring an abundance of love, loyalty and liveliness that completely overshadows it. A little planning, consistent grooming habits, and acceptance of their natural behavior can beautifully harmonize your experience of sharing the home with these charming Irish furballs. After all, the little tumbleweeds of fur to clean up are indeed a small price to pay!
