Judging the Irish Red & White Setter

The Irish Red & White Setter is bred primarily for the field. First and foremost the IRWS should appear strong and should possess a curious and intelligent attitude. A look is of a moderate, sturdy, powerful animal that is presented in a natural state.

IRWS should have moderate bone. They are unique and should not look like the other three Setters. Rather you should see a basic old setter type of dog, never racy or elegant. Defining type is essential when judging the breed.

Balance and proportion are essential. The IRWS is equal to or slightly longer than tall.

The expression should display a kindly friendly attitude, with round eyes, either dark hazel or dark brown in color. The stop should be distinct, with a clean square muzzle, never snipey and either a scissors or level bite.

The IRWS should have their whiskers in tact - never trimmed.

The Skull should be broad and domed but never show the occipital bone as does the Irish Setter.

Topline is to be level, and slope slightly at the croup.

When moving the tail should be waving but never curled or carried above the topline. They should have well sprung ribs and a deep chest.

When gaiting, the IRWS should be shown on a loose lead, and the head should be held high. They should cover maximum ground with a few effortless strides and should possess a confident air as they gait.

The Color of an IRWS is one of its most important characteristics, setting it apart from other setters. "Clear White with Rich Red Islands", the ideal IRWS has 60% White and 40% Red with islands favorably placed over the body and red covering the ears and eyes. Variations in size and shapes of the islands are acceptable. However, heads without the eye or ear markings are less desirable as is too much coloring covering the body, or lack thereof.

Visible and excessive flecking, roaning, or mottling on the body is to be heavily penalized.

Feathering on the back of the fore and hind legs and on the outer ear flap should be long and silky, as well as straight, flat and not overly profuse.
On the remainder of the body the hair should be short, flat, and free from curl. A Slight wave is permissible.

The IRWS should always be presented in a natural form; clean and tidy but never sculpted, or shaved as other setters appear.

The IRWS should display a kind, friendly attitude, with great determination, a high spirit and great courage. Any type of unprovoked aggressive behavior toward people, dogs or other animals is unacceptable.