Temperament and care ratings
The American Kennel Club rates every breed from 1 to 5 on the traits below. They describe how the breed tends to be, not a promise about one dog.
Coat: Double coat, medium.
A Irish Red and White Setter suits
- A family with young children (rated 5 of 5 with kids)
- A home that changes often, or apartment life (adaptability 5 of 5)
- A first-time owner who wants an eager learner (trainability 5 of 5)
- Runners, hikers and active households (energy 5 of 5)
- People who hate dog hair on the sofa (shedding 2 of 5)
Think twice if
- You are out most of the day: energy is rated 5 of 5
What the ratings mean day to day
An energy score of 5 and mental stimulation needs of 3 mean plenty of daily exercise plus training games or puzzle feeders. With barking at 3 of 5 and a watchdog score of 3, expect some barking at the door. Grooming at 2 of 5 means an occasional brush.
Popularity
In 2020 it ranked 170.
Breeds with a similar profile
Closest matches across all 14 trait ratings:
Field SpanielKidsEnergyShedding
Compare: Irish Red and White Setter vs Flat-Coated Retriever · Irish Red and White Setter vs Field Spaniel · Irish Red and White Setter vs Labrador Retriever
Frequently asked questions
Are Irish Red and White Setters good with kids?
The AKC rates the Irish Red and White Setter 5 out of 5 for being good with young children. That is the top score.
Do Irish Red and White Setters shed a lot?
Shedding is rated 2 out of 5 (low), and coat grooming 2 out of 5.
Are Irish Red and White Setters easy to train?
Trainability is rated 5 out of 5 and mental stimulation needs 3 out of 5.
How much energy does a Irish Red and White Setter have?
Energy is rated 5 out of 5 and playfulness 3 out of 5.
Ratings: American Kennel Club breed pages, compiled February 2022 (AKC Irish Red and White Setter page). 2025 ranking: AKC, published August 2026. How we check.