Also known as the Red Setter, the Irish Setter is probably best know for its gleaming, rich chestnut coat and is certainly one of the more glamorous of gundogs out there. A regular attendee at all of our game and country fairs, the Irish Setter originates from Ireland and is said to have evolved from the crossing of Spaniels, the Spanish Pointer, Bloodhound and both the Gordon and English Setters in the late eighteenth century.

One of the dog world's real characters, the Irish setter is handsome, refined and has a demonstrative temperament. Whilst today's Irish Setter is more likely to be found in a dog show than working the open field, the original setter was solely employed for work and his main job was out on the hunt; first setting the birds for the hawk and the net, and then later the gun.

With his love for the great outdoors, the Irish Setter is tremendously active and has boundless amounts of energy. Whilst sometimes slow to mature both mentally and physically, this beautiful and affectionate breed is loyal to the end and has developed over the years to fit in well as a family pet. As with many breeds today, the Irish Setter has come a long way from his working roots and today is more likely to find his talents as a successful show dog.

The Irish setter is just one of many gundog breeds that can be found at all of our game and country fairs. Whether you fancy taking part in the numerous gundog events that take place throughout the season, or in the many popular pet dog shows, you can bring your beloved companion along to a Countryman Fairs event, talk to other dog owners sharing your breed and enjoy a great day out in the countryside.