Back in 1875, the crowd at the Detroit dog show was amazed by the appearance of “Elcho,” one of the first Irish Setters ever seen in the United States. This tall, striking redhead was not just beautiful, but also highly intelligent and ever so friendly. Since then, Irish Setters have made their way into countless homes all over the world and have remained a popular breed for dog enthusiasts. However, the question burning in the minds of many potential pet parents is, “Is an Irish Setter a good first dog?”
Before we proceed, let’s take a step back into history. The Irish Setter, also known as the Red Setter, originated in Ireland as a bird dog. Back then, this breed was primarily used to hunt gamebirds in the green meadows of Ireland. They were trained to trace the scent of game birds in the air, an impressive feat even for the most skilled hunting dogs. They’d then adopt a ‘setting’ position to show their masters where the birds were hiding. This unusual crouch-stance got them the name ‘setter.’
However, their talent goes way beyond just tracing and setting. Irish Setters are particularly good learners and athletic dogs who love regular exercise making them excellent companions for people fond of the outdoors. They are fast runners and phenomenal at agility tasks. Entering an Irish Setter into a local agility competition might just see you go home with a winning cup!
Confused about which breed to bring home? Here are a few reasons why an Irish Setter could be a fascinating choice. For starters, they are quite sociable and get along pretty well with not just humans, but other pets too. If you are introducing a new pet into a family with other animals, an Irish Setter can be a perfect fit! They are known to be affectionate and friendly, perfect for a lively and energetic household.
One of the most heartwarming qualities of the Irish Setter is its undeniable bond with children. In fact, in the 1962 movie “Big Red,” a true friendship story unfolds between a young boy and an Irish Setter. In real life too, this breed is ever so patient, gentle, and protective of their little human friends, making them fantastic family dogs.
However, just like every coin has two sides, Irish Setters also come with their set of challenges. Despite their adorable behavior and strikingly handsome features, Irish Setters are not for everyone. Known to be the “clowns of the dog world,” they often keep their juvenile, silly behavior well into old age. This might be adorable to some, but frustrating to others.
In addition, unlike their appearance might suggest, the Irish Setter is no couch potato. They require plenty of physical exercises and mental stimulation on a daily basis. This breed requires daily walks, alongside ample space to run around and play. If you’re someone who leads a sedentary lifestyle or resides in a small apartment, an Irish Setter might not be the right fit for you.
Another aspect new pet owners should brace for is the grooming needs of an Irish Setter. Yes, their gorgeous, chestnut-colored coat isn’t self-maintaining. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent tangles and matting. Trips to a professional groomer every few months might also be required to keep them looking neat and clean.
Training an Irish Setter could be both a joy and a challenge. If trained with positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praises, an Irish Setter can quickly learn the basics. However, they can be stubborn and may require a fair bit of patience as the training progresses.
While their lifespan ranges from 12-15 years, Irish Setters are prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia, eye disorders, and skin conditions. Regular visits to the vet and preventive care can help catch any potential problems early and avoid major health problems down the line.
One nugget of wisdom for potential owners is to get their Irish Setter from a reputable breeder, who can provide health clearances for both of the puppy’s parents. Additionally, it’s also a good idea to spend time with the dog parents, as many traits including temperament can be inherited.
In conclusion, yes, an Irish Setter can be a good first dog for those with an active lifestyle and ample time to dedicate to their dog’s exercise and training needs. Their amiable and affectionate disposition is bound to win your heart. For those responsive to their needs, an Irish Setter can be not just a pet but an integral, joy-filled part of the family. It always helps to remind yourself that owning a pet, no matter the breed, not only brings joy but also requires commitment and responsibility. The key is to understand and fulfill the needs of your furry companion and create an enriched environment for them to thrive.
