This breed is versatile and is fairly easily trained if proper methods are used. This breed's high demand for attention and interaction makes training it to do something a logical choice. Remember, choosing a pup from a litter whose parents excelled in your desired activity make it more likely your pup will excel in that activity as well. As long as both children and Irish Setter are supervised, these two get along great. This breed loves to get attention and loves to be active.
Training is accomplished with patience and non-punitive methods.
One of the biggest concerns with this breed is GDV, also known as gastric torsion or bloat. This condition should be discussed with a Irish Setter breeder or a veterinarian to plan precautions that should be taken to prevent this deadly condition from developing. Hip dysplasia is a major concern for most of the larger breeds, any and all breeding stock of Irish Setters should have their hips checked and cleared. Hypothyriodism is common in Irish Setters and can be diagnosed by a veterinarian. PRA is a type of blindness that is hereditary, DNA tests can now be done to eliminate potential breeding stock from passing these genes on.