Two of the best dogs we ever owned were Irish Setters, mother and daughter. Beautiful, intelligent, and were (literally) the best of breed in the region. Yeah, they had their moments, like the mother going into a perfect point (remember, they were originally hunting dogs), two steps, point -- and dashed behind me to hide when a robin flushed from the hedge. She would also point (and eat) flies.

I'd go on, but I won't. They were great dogs, and the breed has suffered from the demands of the dog show.