Irish Setter

Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson Irish Setter

Average size and lifespan

chihuahua silhouette
great dane silhouette
Height: 2ft 1in - 2ft 3in
Weight: 60-70lbs
Lifespan: 12 - 14 Years

Behavior

  • Affection5/5
  • Kid-Friendly4/5
  • Stranger-Friendly5/5
  • Dog-Friendly5/5
  • Barking Amount3/5

Care

  • Grooming Difficulty3/5
  • Shedding Amount3/5
  • Easy to Train3/5
  • Can Be Alone3/5
  • Exercise Need5/5

Environment

  • Cold Tolerance4/5
  • Heat Tolerance3/5
  • Apartment-Friendly1/5

Irish Setter Information

Irish SetterThe Irish Setter is known for sporting a gorgeous red coat and for its combination of athleticism, speed and grace. Bred for hunting, the Irish Setter is believed to have developed from an English Setter-Spaniel-Pointer-Gordon Setter mix in the 18th century. With this pedigree, the Irish Setter is very easy to train. With a carefree, positive attitude, the Irish Setter makes friends with anyone they meet. They are exceptional with kids and other pets and love being part of a family. If you are looking for a great family dog, consider the Irish Setter!

All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. Please let us know if we made an error in the stats.

Breed FAQs

Can Irish Setters be apartment dogs?

Irish Setters don't do very well in apartments. Another breed is a better fit for apartment living.

Can Irish Setters be left alone?

While Irish Setters prefer to be around their owners, they can do fairly well when left alone if necessary.

Are Irish Setters good with kids?

Irish Setters do well with kids. Supervise them closely, as with any dog, but they are unlikely to become aggressive.

Are Irish Setters friendly with strangers?

Irish Setters love other people and will often run up to them for affection. They quickly become friends with almost anyone.

Do Irish Setters get along with other dogs?

Irish Setters get along great with other dogs. They are very social, and you often need to watch the other dog more than your own.

Do Irish Setters bark a lot?

As far as dogs go, Irish Setters bark an average amount. Expect barking to alert you, get attention, or react to strangers and other dogs.

Do Irish Setters shed a lot?

Irish Setters shed a medium amount. They have seasonal shedding, but they aren't terrible to clean up after.

Do Irish Setters need a lot of grooming?

Irish Setters need a medium amount of coat care. Brushing and bathing will usually be enough.

Do Irish Setters need a lot of exercise?

Expect Irish Setters to have high energy and need a lot of exercise. Give them ways to burn it off or they may act out.

Are Irish Setters easy to train?

Although Irish Setters can be a challenge to train, they can learn with dedicated work or some professional help.

Can Irish Setters handle cold weather?

Irish Setters do well in cold weather. You may need to protect their paws, but they handle colder climates well.

Can Irish Setters handle hot weather?

Although Irish Setters can tolerate hot conditions, don't expose them for too long.

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