Who this breed is NOT for
Low-energy or apartment homes, anyone wanting a calm couch dog, or owners short on training patience.
Bred to do
An Irish gundog bred to range fields and locate birds — athletic, tireless, and exuberant.
Exercise needs
High — needs lots of running room and daily vigorous exercise. Bred to cover ground all day.
Temperament
Outgoing, affectionate, playful, and famously goofy; slow to mature and forever young at heart.
Trainability
Smart and willing but easily distracted and slow to settle; needs patient, upbeat, consistent training.
With kids & pets
A wonderful, friendly family dog with kids and other pets; the bouncy energy can bowl over toddlers.
Living situation
Needs an active home with space to run; not suited to apartment or sedentary life.
Grooming & shedding
Moderate shedding; the silky red feathered coat needs regular brushing to prevent mats.
Health & costs
Generally healthy; watch hip dysplasia, bloat (feed carefully), eye issues, and epilepsy. Buy from health-tested lines.
Best fit
Active families and runners who want a joyful, affectionate, athletic companion and will exercise and groom.
Free guide
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A note from Kerri
Irish Setters are pure sunshine — beautiful, bouncy, and goofy well into adulthood. The flip side is they stay puppy-brained a long time and need real exercise. Give them a job and a run and you'll never meet a happier dog.
— Kerri, founder of Floyd's Love
Gear Kerri recommends
A few things that make this easier. As an Amazon Associate, Floyd's Love earns from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
An effective tool for daily brushing to prevent mats and distribute healthy oils across your dog's coat.
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WeatherBeeta Reflective Dog Parka
This insulated, waterproof coat provides essential warmth for short-coated or small dogs during cold winter walks.
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Dental Finger Wipes for Dogs and Cats, Fresh Breath, 50 ct
Textured finger wipes designed to gently clean teeth and gums as an alternative for dogs that won't yet tolerate a standard toothbrush.
Shop thisLuciphia Super Soft Warm Flannel Fleece Dog Blanket
Helps warm up small or thin-coated dogs shivering from chilly indoor or outdoor temperatures.
Shop thisFloyd's Love is educational. Our lessons, breed guides, and personalized assessments are for general information and preparation only — they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care or advice from a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviorist. Always consult your vet for medical concerns and a qualified professional for behavior issues.