Setters - Active and Sensitive Family Dogs

The family is made up of Irish, English and Gordon varieties. Of the three types, The English variety (shown in the photo above) is an absolutely terrific choice for a family dog, as long as you can commit to their exercising and grooming needs.

They have long, soft coats, and will need regular brushing to keep it from getting matted. They are considered moderate shedders.

Their personalities are sweet, and even sensitive, and they respond best only to positive reinforcement when training. When made afraid or criticized, they seem to shut down and not know what to do, so this must be honored in order to get good behavior results.

These sensitive dogs were born to please your family, and are very social beings. They are friendly, happy and tolerant of children.

Gordons have a similar disposition to the English variety, but may be a bit more reserved around people that they do not know. They are great with children, and can be wonderful family dogs.

Irish Setters, though gorgeous dogs, are needy of extreme amounts of exercise. They require a very active family, but also one that moves calmly and patiently in the house, and can devote a lot of time to training. Is it realistic to expect that your family can meet the needs of this beautiful mahogany-colored dog? Think carefully, before considering this breed.