Breeding the Red and White Setter is not a simple task. Proper breeding requires a lot of knowledge on the breed and its pedigree. Many people simply give away or sell their litters but that does not make them breeders. Special knowledge and care is required to breed healthy Red and White Setters that are free from disease and genetic defects. If you're interested in breeding the Red and White Setter, there are a few basics that you should know to make sure you're breeding healthy dogs that are legitimate Red and White Setters.
Before you begin breeding Red and White Setters, you should first make sure that you understand the physical attributes associated specifically with the breed. As the name suggests, the majority of the coat is white with medium-sized patches of red. Some flecks may be acceptable for competitions, but under no circumstances will roaning be accepted, at least not if you're breeding show dogs. The shiny hair that a Red and White Setter is revered for is no accident either, you'll have to make sure that the hair feathers rather than curls or flips. A perfect example of something you should know before you begin breeding is the make up of the Red and White Setter. Did you know that the Red and White Setter is derived from the Irish Red Setter? These are a few of the physical guidelines with which you'll have to familiarize yourself. Just keep in mind that there are many physical characteristics that make up the Red and White Setter.
A responsible breeder should also find out what types of diseases the Red and White Setter is known to suffer from. A common illness specific to Red and White Setters is Posterior Polar Cataracts (PPC), which is a minor form of cataract that doesn't typically mean blindness for the breed, but it does pose a major problem. Surgery is an option for PCC and if it comes to that, you have to make sure that you engage a qualified vet. Since this occurs often, all Red and White Setters should have their eyes checked and certified before adopting or selling.
Lastly, if you intend to be a responsible breeder, you should also find a way to place your imperfect Red and White Setters in homes as well. Just because a few of the litter aren't perfect doesn't mean they can't find loving homes in a non-competition environment. Remember, these dogs love human interaction and they'd much rather be with a loving family than sitting in the pound. If you have competition-quality Red and White Setters, you should screen potential families to make sure your dog is going to a good home. Above all else, exercise good judgment and always ask questions if you would like to breed Red and White Setters. A responsible breeder takes care to breed healthy and happy dogs that don't have behavioral issues.
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