How to Adopt an Irish Setter

Irish Setters are energetic, loyal, playful and smart dogs that work well as household pets. Because they don't have watchdog instincts, they work quite well in homes with small children. Due to their acute sense of smell and impressive gait, they make excellent hunting dogs. Irish Setters need daily exercise because they are large dogs. If you don't have a home with a yard, it's recommended that you walk your Irish Setter at least twice daily. In addition, Irish Setters require regular grooming due to their medium-length coats.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog supplies
  • Vaccinations
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Instructions

    • 1

      Decide whether you'd like to adopt an adult Irish Setter or a puppy. Adult dogs require less care than puppies. If you wish to adopt a puppy, make sure you have the time and energy to devote to raising one.

    • 2

      Find Irish Setter breeders in your vicinity. Most breeders have websites where they post photographs of their latest litters. While you can get an idea of the puppies from photos, it's important to interact with them in person before choosing one. Reputable breeders will provide you with papers, authenticating the puppy's lineage.

    • 3

      Visit pet stores in your area. Irish Setters aren't very common, so put in a request at a local shop. Ask the owner to contact you when she gets Irish Setter puppies in.

    • 4

      Adopt an Irish Setter from a rescue foundation. Organizations such as Save Our Setters and Irish Setter Club of America are dedicated to placing unwanted, neglected or abused Irish Setters in new homes. You may have to undergo a background check in order to rescue an Irish Setter. Rescue organizations have both puppies and adult dogs available for adoption.

    • 5

      Ask about the pup's history prior to adopting him. Confirm that the dog has all necessary vaccinations and is in good health. Inquire about his demeanor and how he interacts with people and other dogs.

    • 6

      Acquire all necessary supplies before bringing your Irish Setter home. You'll need a collar, leash, water and food dishes, dog food and a dog brush.

    • 7

      Brush your Irish Setter every day. The dog's soft coat is susceptible to burs and tangles.

    • 8

      Feed your Irish Setter two to three small meals per day. Because the breed has a tendency to bloat and have some digestion issues, it's best to avoid large meals.

    • 9

      Give your dog room to exercise. Irish Setters work best when they have lots of room to run around. If you don't have a yard at home, take him to a local dog park and let him run free.