Large breed
Irish Setter Puppies
Loving companion with a playful spirit
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- Adult weight 60–70 lbs
- Height 22–28 in
- Lifespan 12–15 years
- Exercise 120 min a day
About the Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is a breed that charms everyone with its stunning coat and lively spirit. Originating in Ireland as a bird hunting dog, their friendly demeanor and striking appearance have made them beloved family companions over the years. Known for their playful nature and high energy, these large dogs thrive in active households where they can engage in plenty of exercise and play. They are especially good with young children, making them a perfect addition for families looking for a loving and dynamic pet.
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While Irish Setters enjoy outdoor adventures, they also require regular grooming to keep their beautiful, long fur in top condition. Expect to brush them weekly to manage their shedding, as they do shed quite a bit. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them relatively trainable. They respond well to positive reinforcement and can quickly learn commands, though consistent training is needed to channel their exuberance into good behavior.
With their affectionate nature, Irish Setters form strong bonds with their families and often seek out companionship, so they do best in homes where they won’t be left alone for long periods. While they are generally sociable and get along well with other dogs and even cats, they tend to bark at unfamiliar sounds, making them decent watchdogs. If you are looking for a loving, energetic family member that will keep you active and entertained, the Irish Setter could be your perfect match.
Irish Setter breed profile
Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.
Temperament
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Affection Devoted
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Playfulness Always game
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With strangers Never met a stranger
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Territorial Territorial
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Prey drive High
Family & other pets
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Young children Excellent
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Older children Excellent
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Other dogs Sociable
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Cats Usually fine
Energy & exercise
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Energy Very high
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Mental stimulation High
Training
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Trainability Quick to learn
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Intelligence Very bright
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Stubbornness Biddable
Care & upkeep
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Shedding Heavy
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Drooling Minimal
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Barking Vocal
Home life
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Apartment living Prefers a house
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Time alone Needs company
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Cold weather Needs a coat
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Warm weather Comfortable
A good match for
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First-time owners Good first dog
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Senior owners Demanding
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Running partner Excellent
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Hiking Excellent
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Therapy work Good
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Guarding Low
Living with a Irish Setter
Temperament & Family Fit
The Irish Setter is a warm-hearted and loving companion perfect for families, especially those with young children. Their affectionate nature makes them excellent playmates, and they typically get along well with other dogs and even cats. With their friendly demeanor, they're sure to bring joy and laughter into your home.
Energy & Exercise
With a high energy level, the Irish Setter thrives on regular exercise and playtime. Daily walks, runs, or trips to the dog park are essential to keep them happy and healthy. Their playful spirit means they’ll enjoy any outdoor activities you can share with them!
Care & Grooming
Irish Setters have a beautiful, flowing coat that requires weekly grooming to keep it looking its best. While they do shed moderately, regular brushing will help manage this and keep their fur clean. Caring for an Irish Setter is a labor of love, and they'll reward your efforts with endless affection.
Training Notes
This breed is known for its keen intelligence, making them fairly easy to train. Their eagerness to please means they thrive on positive reinforcement, so be patient and consistent in your approach. With the right guidance, your Irish Setter will be a well-mannered member of your family in no time!
Caring for a Irish Setter
- Grooming
- Weekly brushing
- Grooming cost
- Average
- Monthly food
- Average
- Outdoor space
- A yard is recommended
- Allergy friendly
- Not considered hypoallergenic
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the energy level of an Irish Setter?
Irish Setters are known for their high energy levels, pegged at a 5 out of 5. They thrive on physical activity and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are essential for this lively breed.
Are Irish Setters good with children?
Absolutely! Irish Setters are wonderful companions for young kids, scoring a perfect 5 in this area. Their playful and affectionate nature makes them great family dogs, and they often enjoy participating in children's activities.
How do Irish Setters get along with other pets?
Irish Setters are generally quite sociable, enjoying the company of other dogs and even cats. With a score of 4 for their compatibility with other pets, they can make delightful additions to multi-pet households, given proper introductions and socialization.
Do Irish Setters shed a lot?
Irish Setters have a moderate shedding level, rated at a 3. Regular grooming, about once a week, will help manage the shedding and keep their beautiful coats looking their best. If you're willing to invest time in grooming, they can be a great match!
Can Irish Setters adapt to apartment living?
While Irish Setters have lots of energy to burn, they typically do better in homes with ample outdoor space. With a rating of 2 for apartment friendliness, they may not thrive in a small living situation without plenty of exercise opportunities and time outside. A yard or nearby park would be a great bonus!
