Irish Setter Colors and Everything You Need to Know

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Posted Oct 27, 2024

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Irish Setter Walking on Meadow in Mountains
Credit: pexels.com, Irish Setter Walking on Meadow in Mountains

The Irish Setter is a stunning breed with a rich history and diverse color palette. The most common colors are Red and Orange.

The Irish Setter's distinctive red coat is the result of a dominant gene that codes for the production of the pigment phaeomelanin. This gene is responsible for the red coloration in many breeds.

One of the most striking features of the Irish Setter is its beautiful coat, which can range from a deep mahogany to a rich golden red. The exact shade depends on the individual dog's genetics.

In addition to the classic Red and Orange colors, Irish Setters can also come in a rare but beautiful color called Lemon. This color is the result of a genetic variation that affects the production of the pigment eumelanin.

Irish Setter Colors

Irish Setters have a distinctive red or chestnut coat that's moderately long and silky. It requires frequent brushing to prevent matting and keep it looking its best.

Credit: youtube.com, Irish Setters - Top 10 Facts

The FCI Breed Standard for the Irish Setter specifies that males should have a chestnut coat, while females can have a red and white coat. However, the most common color is a reddish-brown coat that's both beautiful and recognizable.

Irish Setters can range in height from 24 to 28 inches, with males weighing between 65 to 75 pounds.

Irish Setter Colors

The Irish Setter's coat comes in a variety of shades ranging from chestnut brown to hazel brown. These dogs can also have a red and white coat, which is often overlooked in favor of the more traditional reddish-brown appearance.

You might be surprised to learn that Irish Setters have a coat that's not just beautiful, but also silky, lush, and feathery. This makes them a joy to behold, and a pleasure to have as a companion.

Appearance

Irish Setters are a stunning breed, and their appearance is one of their most distinctive features.

Credit: youtube.com, ► Irish Red Setter Breed [2020] Temperament & Training

Their coats are a key part of their charm, with a range of shades from chestnut to mahogany. Show dogs tend to have a thicker, longer coat, while hunting dogs have a thinner, shorter coat that helps with thermoregulation and avoiding burrs and awns.

Irish Setters typically range in height from 24 to 28 inches, with males weighing 65 to 75 pounds and females weighing 55 to 65 pounds. Their coats require frequent brushing to maintain their condition and keep them mat-free.

Their coats are moderately long, silky, and of a red or chestnut color, with an abundant undercoat in winter weather. The top coat is fine, and their coats should also feather in places such as the tail, ears, chest, legs, and body.

Here's a breakdown of the average height and weight of Irish Setters:

Irish Setters are deep-chested dogs with small waists, and their life expectancy tends to be around 11 to 12 years.

Irish Setter Basics

Credit: youtube.com, Irish Setter - Top 10 Facts

Irish Setters are a medium to large breed of dog, typically weighing between 60-70 pounds and standing between 24-27 inches tall.

Their short, smooth coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

Irish Setters are an energetic breed and need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day to stay happy and healthy.

Their intelligence and trainability make them a popular choice for families and hunters alike.

They are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities and make great companions for people of all ages.

Irish Setter Background

The Irish Setter is a breed that originated in Ireland in the 18th century.

They were bred as hunting dogs, specifically for flushing and retrieving game, and were highly valued for their strong prey drive and energetic nature.

Originally, Irish Setters were known as "Red Setters" due to their distinctive red coat.

Their ancestors were a mix of Irish Water Spaniels, Irish Terriers, and other breeds, which contributed to their unique characteristics.

Credit: youtube.com, IRISH SETTER 🍀 Characteristics, Character and Health

The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1878.

Irish Setters are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, making them great family pets.

They require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health.

Irish Setters are generally good with children, but as with any breed, proper socialization is key.

They have an average lifespan of 10-12 years.

Their short coats require minimal grooming, but they do shed heavily during shedding season.

Irish Setters are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia and eye problems.

Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify these issues early on.

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Lucy Orn-Mills

Writer

Lucy Orn-Mills is a versatile writer with a passion for canine culture. With a keen interest in the world of dogs, she has penned articles on a wide range of topics, from the charming Border Terrier to the rich history of dog breeds originating in Scotland and England. Lucy's expertise extends to the fascinating realm of Terriers, a group of breeds known for their feisty and affectionate nature.

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