The working setter is an air scenting dog who quarters the ground with pace, style and exciting exuberance in the quest to find game, quietly controlled by the handler.
There is no better sight than to see a fully trained setter quartering the moor, locating game, taking up a low stance or crouching indicating the direction with their fixed gaze with one forepaw bent. The setter waiting until the handler arrives at their side and, on command, walk forward together and, when the birds lift, the setter drops to the ground.
Irish Red and White Setters were developed historically to hunt for wild game birds that may be hiding in the cover. The method of hunting is known as quartering and involves the dog moving from one side to another. Once the game is located the dog would then go on point and would remain steady until told by the hunter to flush the game out.
Setters don’t generally retrieve, but some handers allow it, but if competing in field trials it is never permitted.
Contact Working Secretary, Fiona Chapman, for information
