Irish Setters

[GeekInThePink]

Hi, just wondered if anyone could advise about Irish setters on behalf of my DM?

Always has dogs, she is retired, lots of time to devote to training etc.

She is looking at Irish Setters. Any owners about to let us know what they are like? From what I've read they would be perfect for my mum.
My only concerns are- they are a bit big? She last had a cavalier. Although she could more than cope I just wondered if there were similar breeds temperament wise that were a bit smaller?

What are they like with children? I've read only good things. My DC are all under 6, dog aware and pretty good I just wondered if the dog could cope with our occasional visits.

Thanks

Probably should add she did want a dog bigger than a cavalier.

They dont grow up. They have (generally) lovely temperaments but can be mental as in they are forever playful, can clown around and don't watch where they are going/what their tail is doing but none of it is done with malice.

healthwise - they can be prone to bloat, so exercise and feeding need to be carefully monitored. they can be prone to epilepsy, and parents should be tested for PRA (eye problem) and CLAD ( immune problem) and should be either both clear, or a clear to carrier. Two carriers or untested dogs should be avoided. I think they generally get hips and elbows scored too.

some of the bitches are quite dainty/fine so although leggy, aren't always "big dogs"

If you're on Facebook, search for Black Retriever X Rescue www.facebook.com/BlackRetrieverXRescue?ref=ts&fref=ts

They often get setter type dogs and will be able to give you good advice. Personally, they would be a lot stronger than a cavalier type dog - would she be physically strong enough to cope with that? I'm looking after a 22kg foster dog at the moment and she can pull strongly when she spies a cat in the distance so I would wonder about your mum coping with that ... no disrespect of your mum intended!

www.facebook.com/BlackRetrieverXRescue?ref=ts&fref=ts

Thanks everyone.
No offence taken lady I worry about that too.

I will have a chat with her. I think it's the temperament she was drawn to.
Ideally she just needs a companion who loves family life, good with children and very affectionate...and that's just the dog!