Irish Setter Dogs

The Irish Setter originated in Ireland. The breed was bred for hunting and specifically setting the location and game birds. This dog is a gun dog and sporting dog. These dogs were favored for hunting because of their stamina, and ability to work well in wet or dry fields regardless of weather conditions. They also had an excellent sense of smell and excelled at tracking game. The earliest Irish Setter type dog was recorded as far back as 1616. These dogs were the result of being selectively bred with water spaniels and Irish terriers to achieve their characteristic red coat.

By the 18th century many people in positions of political power had taken an interest in the breed. Lord Clan Carty, Lord Dillon, and Marquis of Waterford had taken to breeding the Irish Setter. The Irish Red Setter Club was first established in Dublin on March 29th, 1886. However, the dog was already brought to America in the early 1800's. Americans were already fond of the breed and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed for show in 1878. The breed was also recognized for its gentle, fun-loving and affectionate temperament by the 1960's, and rapidly gained popularity as a family dog.

(Irish Setter Assisting On A Hunt. Picture From Google Images)

Although, most Irish Setters will be strong and healthy; the breed can be predisposed to some health issues. The breeder or shelter staff can better prepare you for the current health of your Irish Setter prior to purchasing, and also give you an idea about any future health issues, if there is any risk. Some of these health issues and treatments are as follows:

Hip Dysplasia: Abnormal hip joint formation and weak muscles and surrounding tissues. Treatable by surgery and pain medication

Progressive Retinal Atrophy: progressive, hereditary disease of the retina (nerve layer at the back of the eye), leading to increasing blindness over time. Treatment: Specially formulated vitamins for eye care. Please consult your veterinarian. The vitamins are not a cure, but a way to slow the progression of the disease. Progressive retinal atrophy is usually is not painful for the dog. Remember, dogs rely more on scent than on vision anyways.

Epilepsy: Caused by imbalance of excitatory and inhibitory signals in the brain. If you think your dog is having or has had a seizure, please see your veterinarian immediately. Sometimes if the dog has only had one or two seizure, the vet will not prescribe any treatment. If seizures persist, the vet may prescribe some anti-seizure medication that helps slow the excitatory chemicals in the brain.

Entropion: When the lining of the dogs eyelids fold inwards. Usually a hereditary trait, affecting one or both eyes. Treatment: Surgery. Depending on the age of the dog. A puppy may be able to undergo a procedure that is less invasive. An adult dog with more severe entropion may require more extensive eye surgery. Your veterinarian is the expert on how best to correct your dogs eyelids based on your dog specific degree of entropion.

Hypothyroidism: Decreased amount of thyroid hormone production. Treatment: Regular daily medication as prescribed by your veterinarian.

Gastric Torsion: Or "Twisted Stomach", when the dog's stomach becomes distended with gas. This can be life threatening and needs emergency medical treatment from the nearest veterinarian clinic. Treatment usually involves surgery. Many breeds of athletic, lean dogs are prone to this digestive issue. Many manage to live healthy, happy lives without ever getting a "twisted stomach".

Von Willebrand's Disease: The blood lacks the ability to clot effectively. Similar to hemophilia, but less severe. Many dogs have this blood clotting disorder which is hereditary and they live normal happy lives. Treatment: There is no cure, but for minor wounds, apply pressure to the site for several minutes, until bleeding stops. For perfuse bleeding, or any wound that does not stop bleeding after pressure is applied for several minutes, seek emergency medical help. The veterinarian has special ways of stopping the bleeding immediately and can make sure your dog has not lost too much blood.

Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency (CLAD): A fatal autoimmune deficiency causing the puppy to be very susceptible to disease. Usually fetal within the first weeks of life, and will not affect the puppies sold to the public. The Irish Setter is one or only a few breeds that now has genetic testing to detect the presence of this divesting autoimmune deficiency.

Celiac Disease: Dogs with this inherent disease cannot tolerate gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Your veterinarian can help you diagnosis the disease and prescribe a special diet that will work best for your dog. You cannot cure Celiac Disease but you can treat it modifying your dog's diet for life.