Irish Setter Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is the exuberant, mahogany-red sporting dog whose flashy coat and joyful energy make it one of the most eye-catching breeds in the field or the show ring. Outgoing, affectionate, and playful, it thrives on companionship and does poorly when left alone for long stretches. Famously slow to mature, the Irish Setter keeps its puppyish exuberance for years, so buyers should expect a high-energy, sometimes goofy companion that needs vigorous daily exercise and consistent, upbeat training. The long, silky, feathered coat needs frequent brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Warm with children and generally friendly with other dogs, this spirited athlete is best suited to an active household that can match its enthusiasm and give it plenty of attention.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
Exercise needsDefining trait
Energy levelDefining trait
TrainabilityTypical
Grooming effortTypical
SheddingTypical
BarkingTypical
Apartment fitLower than most
Good with childrenDefining trait
Good with other dogsHigher than most
First-time ownersTypical
1 active listing
Search all puppies →Available now in:New York (1)Related breeds:Irish Wolf GreyhoundIrish MastiffIrish DoodleIrish DaneIrish Boston TerrierIrish Afghan Setter
Where this breed shines
- Outgoing, affectionate, and playful with people and children
- Striking mahogany-red coat and graceful, athletic build
- Friendly, sociable nature that generally extends to other dogs
Things to consider
- Very high energy and slow to mature, needing vigorous daily exercise
- Dislikes being left alone and can become bored or destructive
- Feathered coat requires frequent brushing to prevent mats and tangles
History
The Irish Setter was developed in Ireland in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries as a swift, wide-ranging bird dog, refined from setters and spaniels into the distinctive solid-red dog known today. Earlier red-and-white dogs gave rise to a separate breed, the Irish Red and White Setter. The American Kennel Club recognized the Irish Setter in 1878.
Temperament
Irish Setters are outgoing, affectionate, and full of high spirits, famous for a playful, fun-loving nature. They love people and form strong attachments, disliking long periods alone. Slow to mature, they retain a youthful exuberance for years and channel their energy best through activity and engaged training.
Questions to ask a Irish Setter breeder
- Are the parents OFA-evaluated for hips?
- Have the parents been DNA-tested for progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and CLAD?
- What steps do you take to reduce bloat risk in your lines?
Health considerations to discuss
Hip dysplasia. Educational, non-diagnostic; OFA or PennHIP evaluations of breeding stock support responsible screening.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Educational, non-diagnostic; a DNA test identifies the inherited form of this degenerative retinal disease.
Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus). Educational, non-diagnostic; a life-threatening emergency in deep-chested breeds that owners should learn to recognize and help prevent.
Canine leukocyte adhesion deficiency (CLAD). Educational, non-diagnostic; a DNA test lets breeders avoid producing affected puppies.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: AKC Irish Setter breed overview · OFA health testing database — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Irish Setter litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Irish Setter puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Irish Setter listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How much do Irish Setter puppies cost?
Listed puppies are priced at $1,000. Each breeder sets their own price, which varies with the puppy's age, lineage, and location.
How can I tell if a Irish Setter breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.