Preserving the Irish Setter
Honoring the Past. Securing the Future.
250,000
Irish Setters in the 1970s
4,500
Estimated Irish Setters in the U.S. today
Within a single lifetime, the Irish Setter has experienced an estimated population decline of approximately 98 percent.
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More significant than total numbers is the effective breeding population — the number of genetically diverse, unrelated dogs meaningfully contributing to the gene pool
— which remains critically limited.
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In population genetics, an effective breeding population under 150 is considered critically vulnerable to inbreeding depression; under 500 presents measurable
long-term sustainability risk.​​
​Preservation breeding is a generational responsibility.​
​*Population estimates derived from historical registration data and current breed census reporting. Effective breeding population references established population-genetics thresholds.
Who We Are
Preservation Breeders. Devoted Stewards.
We're the Layton Family,
A passionate family of preservation breeders and dedicated Irish Setter stewards based in the Rocky Mountains of Utah.
We are a family-run preservation breeder dedicated to ethical practices and long-term breed stewardship.
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Located in Utah, we operate as a small, home-based program where our dogs live as family members first.
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From pregnancy through placement, we remain hands-on. Each puppy receives individualized care, structured socialization, and thoughtful evaluation to ensure stability, confidence, and adaptability.
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We are intentional, relationship-driven, and deeply invested in the well-being of every puppy we produce.
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Our Story
Rocky Mountain Irish Setters was born out of both admiration and concern.
​In the 1970s, Irish Setters were one of the most popular breeds in the United States. Today, their numbers have declined dramatically, making them increasingly rare.
We fell in love with the breed’s affectionate nature, stunning red coat, intelligence, and joyful personality. But as we studied the breed’s trajectory, we realized preservation matters now more than ever.
Our program was built deliberately to protect and strengthen the long-term future of the Irish Setter.
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We are a small, home-based program located in Utah. Our dogs live with us as family members first. Every litter is planned well in advance, and puppies are raised in a structured, nurturing home environment designed to promote stability, confidence, and adaptability. ​​
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About Our Program
Rocky Mountain Irish Setters
Our Mission
Preserving the Legacy of the Irish Setter
Rocky Mountain Irish Setters is dedicated to the preservation of the AKC Irish Setter as the breed was originally established - regal, versatile, and with a balanced structure true to the Irish Setter's honored heritage.
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Our mission is to protect and preserve the purebred Irish Setter as it existed for generations by prioritizing genetic diversity, long-term health, and purposeful breeding. We breed to maintain the integrity and continuum of a centuries-old sporting breed.
We believe preservation breeding is a profound responsibility that requires a deep historical understanding of the Irish Setter, and a vigilant, data-driven approach to each generation.​​
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Rare Lineage. Purposeful Breeding. Lifelong Commitment.
Our Values
Guided by Purpose. Committed to Preservation.
Heritage
We cherish the rich history and timeless beauty of the Irish Setter, committing to preserving the breed as it was originally intended.
Purpose
We breed Irish Setters to be versatile, field-capable partners who have the temperament, drive, and intelligence to excel in the home, as companions, and in the field.
Health
We prioritize the lifelong health and genetic diversity of the breed, ensuring that every Irish Setter we produce is sound of body and mind.
Responsibility
We embrace the profound responsibility of preservation through meticulous, scientific, and data-driven breeding practices.
