International Travel with an Irish Setter: Size, Routes and Key Considerations
Irish Setters are beautiful, energetic dogs and, happily, they travel internationally without the breed-restriction complications that affect some other large breeds. The main challenges are size (they need big crates) and temperament preparation.
Breed Restrictions
Irish Setters are not subject to breed-specific legislation in any country we are aware of. They are not classified as dangerous breeds anywhere and do not appear on any banned breed lists. International relocation for this breed is uncomplicated from a regulatory perspective.
Hold Travel Only
Adult Irish Setters weigh between 27 and 32 kg. They always travel as hold cargo on international flights. There is no in-cabin option for this breed.
Crate Sizing for an Irish Setter
Irish Setters are tall and long-bodied. Most need an IATA-compliant size 5 crate. The crate must allow the dog to:
- Stand at full head height (Irish Setters have long legs and a proud head carriage)
- Lie down fully stretched
- Turn around comfortably
Measure carefully. The typical Irish Setter needs a crate approximately 102 cm long, 71 cm wide, and 76 cm tall (size 500 in IATA notation). An undersized crate will be refused by the airline.
Preparing an Energetic Breed for Cargo
Irish Setters are known for high energy and can be reactive to unfamiliar environments. Crate training is critical for this breed. An Irish Setter that has not been crate trained before travel day is likely to be stressed and distressed in a large unfamiliar crate.
Start crate training four to six months before the move. Feed all meals in the crate, use the crate as a rest space, and work up to four to six hour sessions with the door closed. A calm, confident association with the crate is the single most effective thing you can do for your dog’s wellbeing on travel day.
Exercise your dog well on the morning of travel. A tired, well-exercised Irish Setter settles much faster in a crate than one that has not been exercised.
Key Routes for Irish Setter Owners
Irish Setters are particularly common in the UK and Ireland. Common relocation routes:
- UK to Australia: Full DAFF process. No breed restrictions. Allow 8-10 months.
- Ireland to USA: USDA APHIS health certificate. Rabies vaccination required.
- UK to USA: Standard USDA APHIS process. APHA-endorsed health certificate.
- Ireland to Australia: Same DAFF process as UK. Allow 8-10 months.