Gun Dog Forum

No setter people yet?

According to the AKC website, there were about 120 fewer registered Irish Setters in 2003 than in 2002, dropping its rank from 59 to 63.

Seems this is the trend for quite a few breeds. My dad and grandparents always told me fond stories of an Irish Setter they had once, so I really hope the numbers don't continue to drop.

Alas, though, I've heard that it is one of the breeds that has almost become two breeds in that one line hunts, while the other doesn't. That's sad to see as well.

This is not necessarily a bad thing. The reason that the Irish's reputation as a bird dog has declined was in fact the growing popularity it received as a pet and show dog. If it no longer seems to be so attractive to the show people and more of the dogs born actually come from hunting breeders, maybe the Irish can regain its reputation as a truly magnificient gundog. I currently have an Irish that I accepted as a rescue. I have no way of knowing if he came from a hunting or show line, but I am slowly bringing him through his training. He is showing great interest in birds, but I am unsure of his scenting ability.

Let's hope your rescue dog turns out to be a gem of a hunter!

Thanks Ayres

Yes, I know how you feel. The Gordons too are sometimes seen as show dogs only and not hunters but there are currently 43 Dual Champion Gordon Setters that have earned both an AKC CH and an AKC FIELD CHAMPION title. I don't know what the Irish's motto is but the Gordon's is "Beauty, Brains, and Birdsense" Which many do have.

Hey Y'All
In the case of the Irish, There is a groupe of folks breeding for the gun. It is a cross of Irish & English Known as Red Setter,however they can't be reg with AKC ONLY with FDSB.
I have seen some of these Reds@ trials WOW!!!!
Through selective breeding the red dog will come back.
Mac

GrouseHunter22 wrote:Yes, I know how you feel. The Gordons too are sometimes seen as show dogs only and not hunters but there are currently 43 Dual Champion Gordon Setters that have earned both an AKC CH and an AKC FIELD CHAMPION title. I don't know what the Irish's motto is but the Gordon's is "Beauty, Brains, and Birdsense" Which many do have.

G H 22
Show me a dual dog thaT WILL HUNT HALF A DAY .
I have seen many dulies in the field, T AKC Gordon ch is a 45 min stake on planted birds ( a pointing contest ) Put those dogs in the field to hunt wild birds , and see what you grt .
Mac