ODobhailien Irish Red and White Setters - Minnesota Irish Red and White Setter Breeders

We breed the best Irish upland bird dogs, moving functionally toward the Irish articulated breed standard. We have sought out stock deeply rooted in the old hunting lines of the finest Irish Red and White Setters as they appear in the most respected current lines and kennels in Ireland and throughout the world. We are the breeders of the 1st AKC IRWS Champion, CH O'Dobhailien Cailin Alainn SH. Cailin got her JH at 9 months of age. She is the 1st IRWS to a have a SH title. Her 1/2 brother whom we also bred was the first IRWS to have AKC Master hunt tests passes. The Irish setter was our first breed back in the late 1960's. With the loss of our Irish Setter, AM & CAN CH Draherin Lady Love we researched the IRWS. In 1977 we were blessed to meet Mrs. Maureen Cuddy in Middleton, Ireland. In 1994 we were fortunate to meet Vincent Brennan whom Mrs. Cuddy had suggested we contact. We ended up getting our first IRWS from Vincent, Lougherne Harvest, "Seamus". While visiting Mrs. Cuddy in 1995 she rang Father Doherty and told him it was time the Devlins took home a bitch pup. We brought Sheebhin Grainne, "Grainne" home with us and bred our foundation stock 3 years later. Seamus'X Grainne's daughter Fiona was featured as the breed representative on the IRWS episode of the Beretta's Bird Hunters Journal show. Fiona is in the foreground of our business card and her sire "Seamus" is behind her. In 2010 we were delighted to be asked to send over one of our pups to Ireland. As of Nov. 4, 2010 we were the 1st IRWS breeders in the IRWSAA to be recognized as AKC Breeders of Merit. Our O'Dobhailien IRWS have their health clearances posted on the offa.org site. The IRWSAA is AKC's IRWS parent club and it recommends breeding stock be tested for CLAD,PRA,OFA hips or PENN hips, and that an OFA thyroid panel and CERF exam be done (CERF and OFA thyroid panel to be within one year prior to any breeding). The Irish Red and White Setter is our breed, OUR ONLY BREED and we believe in breeding the whole dog. O'Dobhailien is an AKC registered kennel. PUPPIES ARE HERE and will be ready for new homes March 18.. O'Dobhailien Shields Promise X O'Dobhailien Bewley Mist. Both have OFA excellent hips. Puppy photos will be posted on the O'Dobhailien Irish Red and White Facebook page.               

Irish Red and White Setter

Stud Services

Bob and Evan Devlin
5127 N. Tischer Rd.
Duluth, MN, Minnesota 55804

Breeding quality gun dogs for over 40 years.

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To say we love our O'Dobhailien IRWS “Murphy” is an understatement! We feel blessed that both Bob and Evan have been such an overwhelming source of support and information. They have provided love and compassion in making Murphy such an outstanding dog, both physically and emotionally. They are like Murphy’s grandparents, always there for us with advice, a good tip and so willing to dote on the millions of pictures I send them of Murphy.
I am a big upland bird hunting enthusiast; to have Murphy with me, makes it so much more special. Not only is he wonderful with our 11month year old son, he is one of the best pointers I have ever seen. Every time I go hunting with new or old friends, I receive many compliments on what a great bird dog he is. People are always commenting on how incredibly beautiful it is to watch him work the fields.
An example of his ability is, last summer I took him to the Minnesota Game Fair to check things out and wander around. There was a pointing competition that day, the last day, and we were the second to last to show up. Fifty dogs had competed that day and two points in three minutes was the best record when I showed up. While I was in line to have Murphy enter the field, I was surrounded by what appeared to be very serious hunters and kennel owners (they all had the vests, whistles, hats with logos.etc). They were looking at me like I was some silly city boy (with khaki pants, flip flops and a baseball cap). When it was our turn, Murphy pointed three birds in three minutes and was on another before time let out. The judge said, “Wow, I have never seen a dog like that and what a good nose. He holds his point so well and it was fun to watch him work!” I was one proud papa that day! Murphy was the best of 50 dogs and to be honest, I wasn’t that surprised. I knew what he was capable of doing.
I recommend Bob and Evan Devlin of O’Dobhailien Irish Red and White Setters, in Duluth, Minnesota without reservation. If you have the privilege to own one of their amazing puppies, you will have both an amazing family dog and a gifted hunting companion.

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I have known Bob and Evan and their pups for over 10 years. My wife and I became familiar with their "kids" when we agreed to kennel sit for them. We instantly became attached with their dogs, because of their wonderful temperment. Liam was our first dog that we owned. He was from a litter of their original two IRWS, Seamus and Grainne. For two non-gun dog owners, we were lucky to get a dog that hunted as well as Liam did. My favorite hunting story was on a canoe trip. We got out of the canoe to stretch and he squatted near a small patch of grass near the river. I thought he was just peeing, but he just kept staying there, not for seconds, but for minutes. He finally got tired of giving me the "what are you waiting for look" and stuck he head in the grass and flushed out a nest of ducks. Good thing he knew what to do. We now have a 4 1/2 year old daughter and since day one we have never been afraid to expose her to Liam or any of their other dogs.

The moment that you meet Bob and Evan you will notice that these dogs are there lives. Everything they do is in the best interest of not only their dogs, but of the whole breed. They are very meticulous to match dogs for physical attributes as well as hunting ability and temperment.

Best wishes for your continued successes Bob and Evan and congratulations or your awards.

Mike Tipple

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I was absolutely delighted to learn that Bob and Evan Devlin have been given the
'Breeders Of Merit' award for their achievements in breeding Irish Red& White Setters. As a breeder myself of this ancient and
outstanding gun dog breed, I appreciate how much they deserve this recognition. Theirs is not a business but, rather, a vocation, as everything they do is motivated by what is best for the breed. Therefore they have succeeded in producing true, pure lines of handsome,traditional working gundogs that illustrate so well the breed standard. This is not always the case, as some IR&WS breeders have introduced alien, detrimental lines which does not serve the principle of ethical 'best for the breed' practice.
Bob and Evan are always careful to breed from stock that has current health checks before mating. They obviously truly love their dogs and so the puppies they produce are reared carefully and lovingly with plenty of human hands-on
attention.This caring is continued in the ongoing support and advice they give to new owners who take their new puppy into their lives and
hearts. This support is a very important part of breeding.
I had no qualms, other than the long journey to far away Minnesota, when the Devlins wished to add Mizen puppies to their kennel especially as
they had visited me in person years ago. We have been good friends ever since that fateful visit. My only regret is that they cannot visit me
more often on this wonderful Mizen Peninsula, Ireland's most southwesterly point.
I wish Bob and Evan continued success in their much loved vocation!
Ann Miller,
Mizen Head,
Goleen,
West Cork,
Ireland.

The above testimonial was copied verbatim as this site would not accept Ann's entry from Ireland.

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We have had our girl, O’Dobhailien Kennis Bla’th for 5 years and she still surprises us with her intelligence and sweet disposition. Over 30 years ago we got our first Irish red setter from Bob. She was a sweet little female from AM & CAN CH Draherin Lady Love’s last litter, and 6 years ago, when we lost our last (and 4th) red setter, we were reluctant to change breeds. My husband and Bob have been the best of friends since the eighth grade and we knew that Bob and Evan had been working for many years to start breeding IR&W setters. They traveled to Ireland multiple times over several years, first, seeking permission to export the breed to the United States and, secondly, seeking the best dogs to start their foundation stock. Not surprising, because we knew from past experience that Bob and Evan’s dedication to the integrity of dog breeding goes beyond running a business to sell dogs. They once drove from Duluth, MN to Illinois (over 1,000 miles round trip) to select and approve a puppy (red setter) for us, wanting to be sure that we were getting the best dog for our family, and to make certain the pup’s breeding met his high standards.
As close personal friends we see Bob and Evan every year. Their dedication to the IR&W, their breeding standards and careful placement of puppies convinced us we could purchase one of their pups with confidence. Kennis not only has great instinct in the field, she is a wonderful family dog. Her first experience with children came when our 2 year old grandson came to visit and Kennis was not only curious about this “smaller model” of human, she was gentle, playful and inseparable. Our daughter wanted to take Kennis home with her. No way. I can’t imagine our home without this affectionate and “too smart” dog! Be prepared to receive lots of kisses & cuddles but also be prepared to stay in shape because this breed needs a good run every day—good for them and good for us.
We can honestly say that based on our years of friendship with Bob and Evan and our personal knowledge of their work, research and dedication in establishing their stock of O’Dobhailien Irish Red & White Setters, you can start your search for a gun dog (and a fun dog) with them, and look no further.

Don & Stephanie Gessner

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I have two of Bob and Evans Red & White Irish Setters that have adopted me. Ian, out of one of the first litter's of the Devlin's Red & Whites, is such an instinctive, intelligent hunting and home companion. His nose and intelligence continued from day one to make this amateur birder look good.

The newest addition, Bewley Mist, (Bew) is another very loving, intelligent hunting and house companion. She is just three, and has advanced tremendously watching the "veteran" Ian work. Their natural instinct and overwhelming passion for working for birds is a sight to behold.

They love working for the few grouse we have here in Central MN. They are in heaven when we purchase and set out game farm raised pheasants. Days and weeks later we are still finding the pheasants that were initially missed or lost on the farm.

Two weeks ago, they visited the "cousins" southern MN farm for some action on their local pheasants. All day, for two days, they tirelessly worked and found the wild birds. Their ability to hold a bird just feet away in the heavy slough grass was impressive and a sight to see. A great time was had by all and a few roosters were their trophy for the trip.

Ian & Bew are great house companions. They also travel excellent. I do not crate them, they enjoy being on their beds in the back seat area.

Ian & Bew have been a great addition to my family. I am thankful to long time friends, Bob & Evan Devlin for introducing me to their gems.

Jay Little
Barnum, Minnesota
Westbranchranch@aol.com

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Rarely does one have the opportunity to give such a well-deserved recommendation to a top notch, high quality breeder-Bob and Evan Devlin of O’Dobhailien Irish Red and White Setters, in Duluth, Minnesota.

After the passing of our beloved Chocolate Labrador Retriever, Jasmine, we started to research different breeds and after a few months, we decided to purchase an IRWS puppy. Upon researching and subsequently contacting a few different breeders, we were very confident that Bob and Evan Devlin of O’Dobhailien Irish Red and White Setters were the right choice. From this point, we’ve never questioned this decision. As we eagerly awaited for Lola, our IRWS puppy’s arrival, Bob and Evan kept in constant contact with us which involved answering any and all questions we had regarding best practices of raising our puppy, in addition to sending progress updates and pictures of the puppies. Already at this point, we could tell just how much they cared for their puppies and the overall quality of their breeding program.

We flew up from Miami, Florida to Minneapolis, Minnesota then drove the rest of the way to Duluth to pick up our puppy, so their would be no layover or connecting flights, making the trip as easy as possible for Lola, who sat with us in the cabin on our return.

Not only is Lola a beautiful puppy, but she is also extremely loyal, intelligent, self confident and loving to all creatures that come her way. Lola has been a sweet heart from the day we received her. This illustrates the time and energy that the Devlin’s give to all their puppies to make sure they receive the love needed to develop into confident, self assured dogs, who inherently trust and are comfortable with humans from day one. It also goes to show the success of the match making abilities in placing the right temperaments with the right owners. They ask very good questions upfront so they can assess which puppies will fit best with the specific characteristics of home environments as well as the individual needs of their customers.

On our most recent visit to Minnesota, this past Thanksgiving, we brought Lola with to visit with Bob and Evan, as well as their beautiful IRWS and Lola’s relatives. The Devlin’s welcomed us with open arms and we could not of felt luckier to meet such knowledgeable and compassionate breeders. Their genuine love and concern for the breed truly showed, as they took our Lola on a tour and introduced her to her IRWS family. We could not of been happier- until Bob and Evan asked if we would like to join them at a nearby hunt club the following day to pheasant hunt with Lola and see her natural born abilities in game bird hunting.

Talk about natural instinct! Lola’s ability in the field goes beyond expectations. From the start, she has shown an amazingly high and intense bird instinct, with a strong desire to please. In the field, the natural ability of the breed is what makes them stand out and you’ll immediately know they were born to hunt. A true joy to watch in the field, as they always seem to be smiling.

Bob and Evan maintain a passionate interest in the breed and are concerned about its future. They have successfully followed the beliefs- that breeders should equally pursue breed type, temperament and working instincts, otherwise the Red & White legacy is betrayed. Their extensive knowledge of all generations of their stock along with the hundreds of pictures to show you will leave you amazed.

The Devlin’s have a sincere commitment, passion and dedication to the Irish Red and White Setter breed, which goes unsurpassed. We were amazed at the level of service and understanding they provide their customers that truly went well beyond all levels of expectation.

With the utmost sincerity, we highly recommend O’Dobhailien to anyone interested in purchasing an IRWS.

Abby Berens, M.D.

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I have a dog from Bob and Evan Devlin that I got in July of 2008 and I agree wholeheartedly with all the comments posted to date.

The Devlins are wonderful people and the dogs are fabulous. Evan was sooooo patient with all of my many emails, questions and telephone calls. They spent a lot of time with me when I was visiting, talking about their dogs, the breed in general and my new puppy specifically. Their passion and commitment to the breed and their dogs is very evident. Even now nearly two years later they still stay in touch and I know I can call them at any time with questions, concerns or just to let them know how we are doing.

At nine weeks of age my puppy was pointing on bugs and my other dogs. This past fall my young fellow got nearly perfect scores on a junior hunt test. There is nothing more awesome to watch then his excitement for birds and to see him work a field. Come Spring he is sure to fly through his hunt tests and field trials. We have finished both his AKC and UKC conformation championships and now are making great strides at becoming an obedience and agility dog too. They are very smart and learn quickly. Most importantly he gets along with nearly everyone and is also one of the best snugglers I have ever had!!

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We chose the Devlins for our dog after reviewing several breeders. We concluded that O'Dobhailien Irish Red and White Setters is the best "Red and White" breeder. Our dog, Casey, is fantastic! He is gentle with our kids, is super friendly, has a geat nose, will work all day in the field for me, retrieve in cold water, and has demonstrated solid versatility in the areas of agility and obedience. You won't go wrong by choosing an O'Dobhailien Irish Red and White Setter.

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I decided in 2004 to get a pointing dog after hunting with 5 generations of field golden retrievers. After much research my wife and I decided on the Irish Red and White Setter due to their reputations as both hunting dogs and family pets. We spoke to a number breeders and it was clear that Bob and Evan were at the top of the list. I knew that I had made the right choice when Evan drove with my new pup from Minnesota to Connecticut to see if we were a match.

More than four years later I could not be happier with "Guinness". Hands down he is the best dog I have ever had. His hunting drive and nose are incredible. Together we have taken pheasants, chukar, woodcock and ducks. He will hunt all day if I let him. WIth his natural ability Guinness won his AKC Junior Hunter title with almost no input from me.

Guinness is a sweet, funny, loving dog and "scary smart". He has classic hunting lines you see in old english sporting paintings. Aside from being a great hunting partner, Guiness is also a wonderful house dog and buddy to our 14 month old daughter. There is no doubt that when the time comes I will be getting another pup from Bob and Evan.

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My wife and I started a long detailed search looking for the perfect dog for our home. We have 2 very small children and needed a dog that would compliment them but also be a great addition to my love of upland bird hunting. There are plenty of gun dogs out there, but most of the breeds are getting a bad reputation due to poor breeding. It was important to us to find a dog from a reputable breeder in business for the right reasons.

We chose to get Quinn from the Devlins (ODobhailien Irish Red and White Setters) after I spoke with them on the phone. Evan and Bob truly care for this breed. We made the trip from southeastern North Dakota and were very impressed with there facility’s.

I remember during our visit to there home that I had made a comment that I had not found the perfect dog for me yet. Evan responded with “you have now”. She couldn’t have been more correct. Our Quinn is the gentlest dog I have seen with all kids and especially our two small children. In the field he’s second to none. His physic allows him to hunt all day long and you will not find a better nose. He is patient yet aggressive when it comes to hitting the field. This is the third year that I will be hunting over Quinn and this is my breed.

I would strongly recommend this breed to anyone looking for an absolutely great family dog that is truly remarkable in the field. I would also strongly recommend this breeder to you in your search for an IRWS. I spoke to several IRWS breeders in my search and it was clear after speaking with them, the Devlin’s are the real deal.

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