Rads, Rants, and Reasons to Laugh:

The Loveable, Bone-headed Irish Setter

By Cynthia Saarie

A friend of mine sent out this Ha-ha over the Facebook wires, and I caught a glimpse of something to make you laugh. We need to laugh. It breaks up bad things inside you and makes for great dreams and thoughts.

To make it even more fun, “Hey! It’s 4:20 time!”

In 1980, breeding Irish Setters (the hunting kind, not the kind with long flowing hair) taught me two things: patience and an appreciation for sleep—mostly because I rarely got any. With litters averaging nine and one memorable thirteen-puppy circuses, I became a full-time mom to both the pups and their exhausted mother. Feeding half while swapping the other kept me hopping, and let’s just say coffee wasn’t optional.

These dogs were born to hunt, trained to heed vocal and hand commands, and, ideally, fearless in the field. But here’s the kicker—not all of them passed muster. About half the litter would freeze up faster than you can say “boom” at the sound of a shotgun.

Those adorable flunkies became lovable couch potatoes, AKC papers, and all. Irish setters are great with kids and cats. We had both.

Seeing this list of “crossbreeds” had me laughing (and cringing) all over again. A “Collapso” that folds for easy transport? Where was that when I was swapping puppies at feeding time? Or a “Moot Point”—a dog that doesn’t even matter? Trust me, when it comes to hunting Irish Setters, “terribull” doesn’t even cover it for the scaredy-dogs.

As for me, I kept one: the runt of the last litter, Irish Ladie Colleen’s Bonnie Brown. Spayed, spoiled, and entirely gun-shy, she lived the good life for nine years. A “Commute” dog that travels to work? Nah, Bonnie was more the “Retire” breed—true to the end. Or, maybe she was an “Irish Spud”, a couch potato, and fun.

For those looking for Cannabis, sorry… I needed a good laugh and thought I’d share.

Go smoke something and take a load off. 🙂

Humorous Anecdotes of Irish Setters

Irish Setters are not just hunting dogs; they are also the source of countless funny stories that highlight their quirky personalities. From their clumsy antics in the field to their endearing mischief at home, these dogs have a knack for bringing laughter into our lives. One memorable incident involved my Irish Setter, who mistook a garden gnome for a rival and spent an entire afternoon barking at it, only to later try to play fetch with it.

These humorous moments often resonate with dog owners, reminding them of their own pets' silly behaviors. Whether it’s a dog chasing its tail or getting stuck in a bush, these anecdotes serve to connect dog lovers through shared laughter and experiences. The charm of Irish Setters lies in their ability to turn everyday situations into comedic gold.

The Bond Between Owners and Irish Setters

The relationship between Irish Setters and their owners is often characterized by deep affection and mutual understanding. These dogs are known for their loyalty and playful nature, which fosters a special bond that can be both rewarding and entertaining. Owners often find themselves engaged in playful banter with their pets, turning mundane moments into cherished memories.

For instance, many owners delight in teaching their Irish Setters new tricks, only to be met with the dog's comedic attempts to understand commands. This playful interaction not only strengthens the bond but also provides endless opportunities for laughter and joy. The love shared between an Irish Setter and its owner is a testament to the joy these dogs bring into our lives.

Training Irish Setters: A Comedic Challenge

Training an Irish Setter can be both an enlightening and humorous journey. Known for their spirited nature, these dogs often have a mind of their own, which can lead to comical training sessions. While they are intelligent and eager to please, their playful disposition sometimes results in unexpected antics that can leave owners in stitches.

For example, during a training session, my Irish Setter decided that chasing butterflies was far more interesting than learning to sit. This lighthearted challenge not only tested my patience but also highlighted the unique personality of the breed. Embracing these moments with humor makes the training process enjoyable and strengthens the bond between the dog and its owner.

Irish Setters in Popular Culture

Irish Setters have made their mark in popular culture, often portrayed as the lovable goofballs of the canine world. Their vibrant personalities and striking appearance have captured the hearts of many, leading to their inclusion in films, advertisements, and even social media memes. This cultural representation further emphasizes their playful and humorous nature.

For instance, movies featuring Irish Setters often depict them as the comical sidekick, adding a layer of humor to the storyline. This portrayal resonates with dog lovers, showcasing the breed's ability to bring joy and laughter to everyday life. As a result, Irish Setters not only charm their owners but also leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.