Abstract
FROM the introduction we learn that this is the first book devoted solely to the Irish setter. It cannot, however, be regarded as more than a random collection of miscellaneous notes about the breed, and some of its most distinguished representatives, with an admirable chapter on training and a clear description of the points of the breed as approved by the Irish Red Setter Club. The origin of the Irish setter is apparently shrouded in oblivion. Beyond the suggestion that it has been derived from the red spaniel of the eighteenth century, used largely in hawking, and that its development dates from the beginning of the practice of shooting at flying birds in the last half of the same century, there is nothing really definite that is known, and no records are available which help to establish its history. A century ago there were apparently two distinct strains-red, and red and white, the latter predominating; but with the introduction of dog shows and the somewhat arbitrary requirements of fanciers, the red-and-white strain has largely disappeared. For show purposes only the merest traces of white on the head, chest, throat, and toes are allowable. Mr. S. W. Carl ton contributes the introduction, and the book is illustrated by eight half-tone blocks of celebrated Irish setters, taken from the dogs themselves or from oil paintings.
The Irish Setter: its History and Training.
Colonel
J. K.
Millner
By. Pp. 80 + 8 plates. (London: H. F. and G. Witherby, 1924.) 5s. net.
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The Irish Setter: its History and Training. Nature 114, 428 (1924). https://doi.org/10.1038/114428b0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/114428b0