July 2010 Breed of the Month - Irish Red and White Setter

• As the name suggests, the Irish Red and White Setter is an Irish dog breed.

• These dogs are very energetic, intelligent, and affectionate as well as very friendly and filled with energy.

• Not for meek or passive owners, these dogs need a owner with a firm hand.

• These dogs are very energetic and need daily exercise!

• Grooming needs require daily combing and brushing of their beautiful flat coat.

• Socialization is essential for the Irish Red and White Setter.

• The overall life expectancy of this dog breed is about 12–15 years.

• Did you know that originally the first Irish Setters were parti-colored, having both red and white in their coat color? Solid red Irish Setters were very rare until around 1850 or so when the color of these red and white dogs popularity started to drop - as the solid colored Irish Setters began to be more and more popular.

• Because of the rise in popularity of the red setter, the Red and White Irish Setter dog breed almost became extinct and probably would have had it not been for a few enthusiasts who kept this dog breed alive.

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