Setters are known as a breed in sporting group, but has the Irish Setter changed course? Today, she is now a dog so pampered, well groomed, and polished for bench shows -- because of her remarkable beauty and glamor -- that she is seldom trained for hunting or sports.
Dating from back in the 16th century, this breed was designed to hunt. In Ireland, they produced very fine hunting dogs after thoughtful interbreeding and training of breeds with the right sporting speed and endurance, a keen sense of smell, and a big build -- in contrast to small types of spaniels that Irish people commonly used for hunting at that time.
Early in the 17th century, these Irish hunting spaniels were crossbred with the Bloodhound -- known for her superior scenting ability. This not only improved the new strain of dogs’ sense of smell, but also increased their size.
Before this, these Irish dogs were still known as spaniels. But after crossbreeding them with the Bloodhound, they developed this ability to creep, crouch and “set” right down, moving stealthily as they hunt. They were then renamed as Irish Setters.
During those times, the Irish Setters usually came in red and white coats, which is an advantage for owners because they can easily be seen from afar. Nowadays, this color combination is already quite rare.
One good thing about the Irish Setter is that she can live a little longer than other dogs of similar size -- for about 2 years longer -- and can stay as quick and alert even when she turns old. Although she may become a little arthritic and grizzled in ten years time, she will never become cranky.
This noble breed is undoubtedly beautiful and elegant in appearance. She also has a great range of personalities -- from being very gentle and fun-loving to being grandiose and snappish at times. Nevertheless, the Irish Setter is a very patient and tolerant dog, especially to young children -- to the extent of not even moving a muscle when she is being poked or her hair is being pulled. So children should be taught not to hurt this dog in any way, for she will not defend herself or even walk away from this.
Taking care of an Irish Setter may require a lot of time and effort, but all of this work will worthwhile. Talented, faithful, intelligent, loving, brave, agile and outstandingly beautiful -- this breed will definitely make a good pet, show dog or watchdog.
To exemplify the great courage and loyalty of the Irish Setter, here is an excerpt of a report made by the Associated Press: “In a small town in Missouri, an Irish Setter and a two-year-old girl were alone in a car when the car suddenly burst into flames. The Setter jumped out an open front window, then turned around and from the outside gripped the child's clothing with his teeth and pulled and tugged until she was safely out of the car. A few moments later the fire became an inferno; if not for the dog the child would surely perished.”
Indeed, the Irish Setter will make a great companion for you and your family.
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