Irish Setter

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The Irish Setter's profusely feathered silky coat comes in rich shades of chestnut to mahogany, sometimes with splashes of white on the chest and feet. Black is not allowed.

Some young dogs have silvery-gray hair behind the ears and legs, but these may disappear as the dog matures. Its coat is long and silky except for the head, where it is short and fine.

Even the feet should be well covered with hair. The Setter's ears are triangular, thin, soft to the touch, long and low set, and the legs are long and muscular. The dog is slightly longer than tall. The length of the muzzle should be equal to half of the length of the entire head. The nasal canal is straight and the nose is black or brown. The jaws have a close fitting dental arch. The stop is greatly accentuated and the eyes are chestnut or dark hazel.

The chest is rather narrow and the thorax is deep and streamlined. The tail is carried horizontally and is fringed.

Temperament: Playful, Affectionate, Lively, Companionable, Energetic, Independent

Health Problems: This breed tends to bloat. It may be wise to feed 2 or 3 small meals a day instead of one big one. Prone to epilepsy, severe skin allergies, elbow and hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism and eye problems such as PRA, autoimmune disease. Watch for ear infections and inflammation.