2006-10-04 11:24:18 · 8 answers · asked by al 6 in Pets ➔ Dogs
So many things to consider............ Where you live, if your lifestyle is active enough for this breed, what bloodline is it out of, etc... The reason I mention the bloodline is this, some people will tell you that the brains have been bred out of all setters...... well ...that's almost true. See, the show side of the AKC has not really done any justice for the HUNTING breeds. Now typically, hunting breeds are, by nature, pretty dogs. So when you get someone who shows dogs, they want pretty. So when they get to breeding, they don't usually breed for anything but a pretty dog, and for running in circles in a show ring. Not for finding birds, retrieving, well you get the idea. However, some loyalists to the setters have maintained hunting lines. They can be hard to find, but if that's what you want, it's worth the search. If a true companion is what you are after, then you probably don't care about the hunting or show bloodlines, but caution should be taken whenever you get any pet. True, some setters are a little high strung, or (you insert adjectives). It could be a long list. But look at a few of your friends, that setter ain't lookin' all that bad now. Is it?
Best of luck,
Rodo
2006-10-04 14:05:51 · answer #1 · answered by Rodo 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Irish setters are a very high energy breed that needs a lot of exercise. Like all the setters, they are generally very friendly, outgoing, social dogs. They do need some obedience to keep their exuberance in check and contrary to some people's opinions, they are not dumb. Some breeds, though very intelligent, are not as trainable as others. Trainable and smart are not nearly the same thing. Smarter dogs simply require trainers who can be flexible in their methods.
You must have seen this dog? Your opinion of him is what's most important anyway. If you like this dog, get him!
2006-10-04 12:26:49 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've known a number of Irish Setters. All of those I've known have been highly social, outgoing, energetic, eager, and, well, not exactly brilliant - which isn't a problem if you want a dog to hang with you, take walks (they're hunting dogs and need regular exercise), then "couch potato" with you. Those walks will be on leash, BTW - if they see a rabbit, or mouse, or... they'll take off after it. Beautiful, sweet disposition, relatively dim - at least, those I've known so far.
2006-10-04 11:31:05 · answer #3 · answered by peculiarpup 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
High Energy breed. Need lots of room to romp and play.
2006-10-04 11:31:18 · answer #4 · answered by shellbum 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm not surprised someone is trying to get rid of it. They are incredibly neurotic and extremely stupid dogs, due to excessive inbreeding over many years. Beware of anyone "giving away" a dog -- there's usually a bad reason.
2006-10-04 11:32:13 · answer #5 · answered by stevewbcanada 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Great breed of dog - very loyal and loving.
2006-10-04 11:26:14 · answer #6 · answered by TJMiler 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Stupid. Loving. Slightly mad.
Very beautiful though.
2006-10-04 11:29:53 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
They are very gentle and loving.
2006-10-04 11:44:12 · answer #8 · answered by Call Me Babs 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋