In Youatt's day the Irish Setter was evidently held in high esteem, as he tells us that a true one would obtain a higher price than either an English or Scottish Setter. In those days fifty guineas constituted no unusual price for a brace, and even two hundred guineas had been known to be given. The breed was maintained in its purity with great care, the red or red-and-white colour being a conspicuous feature.

His Work

Although he does the same kind of work as the English Setter, his admirers hold that the Irishman is far better adapted for the rough and hilly country over which he is used. He is possessed of great endurance and exceptional speed, and it is claimed that at home he can beat all comers. Besides his excellence on moor or mountain, he is said to be good on snipe. It seems to me that in many ways a red-and-white dog would be preferable to a whole-coloured one, as being more easily distinguishable, but it is to be presumed that the Irish sportsmen know what is best suited for them.

His Points

Head long and lean; oval skull with well-defined occiput; a stop in front of the eye; good length in front of the eye; ears of moderate size, set low, and of fine texture; neck moderately long and muscular, slightly arched; body long, shoulders sloping; chest deep; hindquarters powerful; coat flat and free from waviness. Colour a rich golden chestnut, devoid of any traces of black.