Header photo courtesy of Christina Phillips, AKC Breeder of Merit The Irish Red and White Setter is not as well known as his dazzling cousin, the Irish Setter, with only about 500 dogs in North America. Even in Ireland, the breed nearly went extinct during World War I. It took the dedication of a handful […]

Three Breeds Gain Full AKC Recognition The American Kennel Club® is pleased to welcome the Irish Red and White Setter, the Pyrenean Shepherd and the Norwegian Buhund as the 159th, 160th, and the 161st AKC® registered breeds. The Irish Red and White Setter will join the Sporting Group while both the Pyrenean Shepherd and the […]

Get to Know the four dogs that are setter breeds: the English Setter, Irish Red and White Setter, Irish Setter, and the Gordon Setter.

Curious about Gordon Setter History? Learn about one of Scotland's oldest dog breeds, and how the four setter breeds differ.

From tenacious terriers to stunning sighthounds, learn more about the 8 AKC-recognized Irish dog breeds that hail from the Emerald Isle.

One of these things is not like the others, goes that classic Sesame Street song. And in the Sporting Group, that applies to the Irish Water Spaniel. Despite the spaniel affiliation mentioned in its very name, this versatile, water-loving bird dog is historically a retriever (though it can take part in AKC flushing spaniel tests). […]

Graceful, elegant gun dog or sweet and loving family companion? The English Setter is both! Sometimes called the "gentlemen of the dog world," they're an ideal combination of versatile hunting partner and gentle, affectionate pet. One look into those soulful eyes and you may be hooked for life. Their Coat Coloring Is Distinctive The English […]

  With his silky coat and elegant black-and-tan color pattern, the Gordon Setter is quite a handsome dog. Gordon Setters are relatively rare in the United States, but that doesn't mean there aren't plenty of reasons to love this breed. Gordon Setter enthusiasts may site intelligence, work ethic, and youthful spirit when telling you why […]

AKC Celebrates 125th Anniversary and Tips its Hat to Two Irish Breeds That Were Among the First Recognized In honor of St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th, the American Kennel Club® (AKC) celebrates the loveable breeds of Irish descent. Notable Irish breeds include the Irish Red & White Setter which was welcomed into the AKC […]

AKC spokesperson Gina Lash appeared live on the Today Show earlier today to celebrate the many dog breeds which hail from Ireland: the Irish Setter, Irish Terrier, Irish Water Spaniel, Irish Wolfhound, Kerry Blue Terrier, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and the Irish Red & White Setter. Watch the segment. Following the Today segment, the dogs […]