I'm interested, from the little info I can find, in getting an Irish Red and White Setter but would be interested to hear from anyone out there who knows this breed well. They look gorgeous and from what I've read their temprement sounds good too - but can anyone tell me more? How easy are they to train? Could we ever hope to enter one in obedience classes for example? Are they OK left alone for 2 or 3 hours from time to time? How affectionate are they with other members of the family and strangers? The other option we are considering is a golden retriever so if anyone can point out the key differences in temprement between the two that would be great. Finally - is there a very long waiting list to get hold of a red and white?

Hi Suze

I have Golden Retrievers myself but can see the attraction of Irish Red and White :) If you'd like to email me with your questions I will forward it to a breeder who I'm sure would be happy to talk to Irish R&W with you - she runs the ringcraft I go to and shows her IRW's and does very well :) She will be able to answer your questions about the breed and could probably tell you the details of some good breeders in your area :)

SaraW :)

click on my name and you'll find my email address in my profile

Funny enough I was chatting to an Obedience friend at club the other night and the topic of Irish setters, and then Red and whites came up. she said she new someone years ago who did very well in Obedience training her Red and white setter or two. They are from the ones I have met a bit more laid back and less giddy than the reds, also a bit heavier in build. The ones I have met casually at shows have been lovely.