You probably never knew that one of the most revered hunting breeds from the Emerald Isle is also a fantastic cuddle buddy for your kids. The Irish Red and White Setter might surprise you with its extremely adaptable nature which allows it to be as good a family dog as it is a hunting dog. But there’s definitely more to this breed than meets the eye. This remarkable breed shines with its charm and aesthetic beauty, ranked as one of the most beautiful among dog breeds. Let’s explore why the Irish Red and White Setter has the potential to be your family’s best friend.
The Red and White Setter is a rare breed that originated in Ireland in the 17th century. Bred for hunting, they excel at finding and pointing to game birds; they use their strong sense of smell and work closely with their human hunting partner to ensure a successful hunt. Despite this intense hunting instinct, they are, incredibly, also known to be calm, affectionate, and endlessly loyal with their human companions. That might be surprising for a hunting dog breed, but that’s what makes the Red and White Setters so unique.
However, meeting a Red and White Setter for the first time can be quite an experience. With their bright, sparkling eyes and a thick, wavy coat of white and rusty red, they will certainly steal your heart almost instantly. The visual allure of the breed is complemented perfectly by their cheerful and friendly disposition. And, with a lifespan of about 12-15 years, they will be around for plenty of family fun and game nights.
Choosing a family dog shouldn’t be taken lightly. After all, you’re welcoming a new member into your family! And dogs, like humans, have their own personalities and quirks. For this purpose, the Red and White Setters stand out as one of the best family dog breeds. This breed is well-known for being exceptionally good with children. They’re patient, gentle and endlessly fun-loving. But don’t be fooled by their playful demeanor, when it comes to protecting their family, these affectionate dogs can be particularly brave and fearless.
What sets the Red and White Setters apart is their intelligence and willingness to learn. Not only can they be trained to perform any number of tricks, but they also understand and value the importance of boundaries. This characteristic goes a long way in ensuring a peaceful co-existence with multi-pet families or households with visiting friends and relatives. Setters have the capacity to understand social cues to a remarkable degree which makes having them around families, particularly those with children, a truly delightful experience.
Having an energetic dog breed like the Red and White Setter can also be beneficial in encouraging your family to get out and be more physically active. They require daily exercise to keep their brains stimulated and bodies healthy. They love to play catch or frolic in the park, making them the perfect companion to keep your kids physically active and outdoors.
One must remember though that even the best-behaved dogs need training. Red and White Setters are no different. Training your setter pup early can help them understand their role in your family and ensure a harmonious relationship with all the members of your household. They respond well to reward-based training methods and positive reinforcement.
On the health front, the Red and White Setter tends to be a generally healthy breed, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain genetic health conditions. Regular health check-ups can go a long way in ensuring the wellness of your setter.
Despite all these perks, the Setter is not an extremely popular breed, and it can be a challenge to find a purebred. Organizations like the Irish Red and White Setter Association, however, can help you locate reputable breeders or rescue centers if you decide to add one to your family.
The decision to get a dog should not be made impulsively. It should be dealt with the same level of care and deliberation you would use when making any lasting decision. And while the Irish Red and White Setter might not be the perfect dog breed for every family, their intelligence, patience, loyalty, and infectious energy make them a fantastic option for many. However, like any pet, you should ensure you and your family understand the time, energy, and commitment necessary to ensure you can meet their needs and provide them with a happy home.
So, next time you find yourself thinking about which breed would be the best family dog, give a long, hard look at this rambunctious redhead. Who knows, you might just find that it’s the Irish Red and White Setter who’s about to steal your heart.
