Irish Red and White Setter
The older of the two Irish setters, predating the solid red variety, and arguably the more serious worker. They're spirited and driven in the field but affectionate and more level-headed at home than the Irish Setter. Still rare enough that finding a reputable breeder requires real effort, which is a shame because the breed is excellent.
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The Irish Red and White Setter isn’t just a pretty face with that striking piebald coat of red and white patches. This breed has roots deep in Ireland’s hunting fields, where they were bred to locate and “set” game birds for hunters, meaning they’d freeze in position once prey was spotted. They’re the quieter, rarer cousin to the Irish Setter, and while they share that elegant, athletic build, the Red and White has held onto a steadier, more methodical temperament.
Don’t let that fool you though, they’re still bursting with energy and spirit. If you’re thinking of bringing one into your home, know this: you’ll need a yard, daily long walks, and ideally some form of structured activity. These dogs score a solid 5 out of 5 on energy and trainability.
They thrive on consistency and mental engagement. A tired Red and White is a happy Red and White. Without enough exercise, they’ll find their own entertainment, like redecorating your couch or barking at passing squirrels (they do bark moderately, a 3 out of 5, usually when excited or alerting).
Grooming is manageable but not low-maintenance. Their medium-length feathered coat sheds lightly (2 out of 5), but tangles easily, especially behind the ears and on the legs. A thorough brushing every few days is non-negotiable.
Skip it, and you’ll be fighting mats in no time. Health-wise, they’re generally hardier than some purebreds but still prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and a few genetic conditions like Von Willebrand Disease. Reputable breeders will screen for these, so don’t skip health clearances.
Lifespan is solid. 11 to 15 years, with good care. These dogs are exceptional with kids, deeply affectionate, and adapt well to different living situations as long as their exercise needs are met.
They’re ideal for hunters, active families, or dog sport enthusiasts. But if you’re couch-bound or live in a small apartment without easy outdoor access, this isn’t the breed for you. Here’s the real insight: people assume setters are all flighty and high-strung, but the Red and White is often more biddable and focused than its all-red relative.
That makes them underrated for agility and obedience, they want to work with you, not just run off on their own agenda.
14 traits, at a glance.
Every breed on PuppyBase is rated across the 14 trait dimensions the American Kennel Club publishes — from trainability to drooling level. The higher the score, the better the fit for that trait.
What to expect day-to-day
Things to screen for
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Canine Leucocyte Adhesion Deficiency
- Von Willebrand disease
- Hypothyroidism
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Common questions
How long do Irish Red and White Setters live?
Irish Red and White Setters typically live between 11 and 15 years, which is a solid lifespan for a dog of their size. With proper care and regular vet checkups, many live into their teens.
How much does a Irish Red and White Setter puppy cost?
You can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 for an Irish Red and White Setter puppy from a reputable breeder. The average price is around $2,000, reflecting their relative rarity and breeding standards.
How much do Irish Red and White Setters shed?
They shed moderately, not heavily, thanks to their medium-length double coat. Weekly brushing is usually enough to manage loose hair and keep their coat in good condition.
What colors do Irish Red and White Setters come in?
They come only in red and white, with well-defined patches of rich red on a white base. This distinctive coloring is a breed hallmark and sets them apart from solid red setters.
How big do Irish Red and White Setters get?
They stand between 22.5 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 35 to 60 pounds, with males generally larger than females. They have a lean, athletic build suited for endurance in the field.
Are Irish Red and White Setters smart?
Yes, they're highly intelligent and rank among the more trainable sporting breeds. They learn new commands quickly and excel in environments that combine mental and physical challenges.
Are Irish Red and White Setters hypoallergenic?
No, they are not hypoallergenic. Their double coat sheds and carries dander, making them unsuitable for people with allergies.
Are Irish Red and White Setters aggressive?
No, they're not aggressive. They’re known for being sociable, open with strangers, and very good with other dogs and children. Their temperament is courageous and spirited, not reactive or hostile.
What health problems are common in Irish Red and White Setters?
They can be prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, Von Willebrand disease, hypothyroidism, and a serious immune disorder called Canine Leucocyte Adhesion Deficiency. Reputable breeders screen for these conditions.
Do Irish Red and White Setters bark a lot?
They bark moderately — enough to alert you but not so much that they become a nuisance. They’re not chronic barkers and tend to be vocal when excited or during activity.
Are Irish Red and White Setters easy to train?
Yes, they’re very trainable thanks to their intelligence and willingness to please. They respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement and consistent handling.
Are Irish Red and White Setters good family dogs?
They’re excellent family dogs, deeply affectionate with their people and very good with young children. Their energy and gentleness make them great companions for active households.
Are Irish Red and White Setters good with cats?
They can get along with cats, especially if raised together, but their bird-chasing instinct means they may view cats as prey if not properly socialized. Supervision and early exposure are important.
Are Irish Red and White Setters good hunting dogs?
Absolutely, they were bred specifically for setting and retrieving upland game birds in Ireland. They’re driven, focused, and excel in the field, often with a more serious working attitude than their solid red cousins.
Can Irish Red and White Setters live in apartments?
They’re not well-suited to apartment living. These dogs need space and daily vigorous exercise, so they do best in homes with yards where they can run and play.
When do Irish Red and White Setters calm down?
They remain high-energy dogs well into adulthood and don’t calm down much until they’re around 2 to 3 years old. Even then, they’ll always need regular physical and mental activity.
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