At a glance
Basic requirements and commitment level
Daily requirements
Context & compatibility
Is this right for you?
Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well
A good match
- Have enough outdoor access for movement and variety
- Can keep regular long walks and active weekends in rotation
Not ideal
- Have limited outdoor access most weekdays
- Prefer minimal daily exercise most weeks
Care & health
Setup, routines, and health considerations
Care overview
Energetic, friendly, and sporty—often affectionate and biddable, but still very much a running dog. Many do best with upbeat training and consistent outlets.
Environment & space
Best with space and regular outdoor time; apartments can be tough without a very strong routine.
Daily routine
Steady exercise plus training and sniff/search play. Many thrive when you keep variety in the week so they don’t get restless.
Health sensitivities
Weight stability and joint comfort are common priorities; deep-chested planning may include bloat awareness.
Grooming / coat
Moderate grooming—brushing feathering and managing shedding.
Background
Origins and how that history shapes what you see today
Origin region
Ireland
Background
An older Irish setter type, established as a bird dog by the 1700s, bred to find game birds and hold position to indicate them. The work favored athletic movement, strong scent interest, and reliability once birds were located. Many modern dogs still show that outdoors-first mindset and natural fieldiness. They usually do best with consistent exercise and plenty of space to move.
Social & behavior
Temperament and interaction style
Personality & activity
Energetic and playful, usually enthusiastic without always being as “wild” as some Irish Setter lines. Many thrive with varied activities—long walks, training games, field-style play.
Handling & social style
Typically friendly and people-oriented, responding well to upbeat training. Handling stays easiest when routines are consistent and gentle.