Irish Red & White Setter Living With an Irish Red and White Setter Submitted by Christina Phillips
can be barkers and chewers, which can be controlled with training. It is rec- ommended that treats, toys with treats inside, natural bones or other items that the IRWS can be 'entertained' with be used. The IRWS thrives on being part of the family. They should have a nice comfortable bed to sleep on or they will join their owner in theirs. Full time living in a kennel should never be considered as a way of keeping them. Secure areas in and outside the house are a must for safety and many choices of fencing are available. Their size and ability to jump and climb should be considered. These are hunting dogs with very strong instincts and a desire to hunt.
white. The IRWS can also be taken to a professional groomer; however, the groomer must be instructed on how not to groom an IRWS. Clippers should NEVER be used on an IRWS.
Often we hear, "a dog is a man/woman's best friend". There can be no truer phrase than this when owning an Irish Red and White Setter (IRWS). The IRWS is a pleasure to have in the home and is well suited for the single or multi-person home and will fit in as a single dog or in a house of multiple dogs. A great family dog and companion, the IRWS will provide a lifetime of enjoyment. The IRWS is mild in temperament, with a “willing to please” attitude. This sporting dog is a loving, loyal family member, who hates to be left alone for long periods of time. These setters require a lot of exercise in the form of daily walks, runs, training (with fun time included), and lots of one on one time. This can be good for those that need that extra push to stay in shape, or need a partner for a healthy heart. The IRWS has a keen nose, a soft mouth, is very intelligent, eager to learn, and easily trained. The IRWS wishes to please and is very sensitive. Positive reinforcement is the preferred training method for these setters. The IRWS is a great candidate for Delta Society, a volunteer organization for animal visiting programs in hospitals, nursing homes, schools and other facilities. There is even a dog sled team made up entirely of IRWS’s. Early training is essential for these dogs, so professional trainers are a good place to learn the basics. Many professional trainers today allow for the busy dog owner and provide in- home training sessions. The IRWS is by no means the perfect dog. Some
High quality food is also a must for this robust setter as they tend to metabolize their food into energy quickly, to take on the challenges that their owners make for them. Homemade or commercial is fine as long as the food is healthy and keeps the IRWS at the correct weight. Be it the show ring, agility course, hunting, obedience, or extreme sports, the IRWS will train and perform at the best of his ability. Then there’s the IRWS smile. Not all, but many use it where appropriate, whether for showing how happy he is to see you come home or for thinking he won’t get scolded for something naughty he’s done. A very endearing part of the breed that has to be seen to be fully appreciated. -- Patty Thompson, Judy Taylor & Michael Lamp
The IRWS requires minimal groom- ing aside from trimming around the ears and feet and keeping the nails short. Dirt and mud will fall off the IRWS coat when dry . Regular brush- ing will get the rest and keep shedding down. Baths are essential with a good quality shampoo to keep the coat
208 • S HOW S IGHT M AGAZINE • J ULY 2011
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