BreedHealth

English Setter vs Irish Setter — Complete Comparison

Choosing between the English Setter and the Irish Setter comes down to lifestyle fit, living space, and the time you can commit to training and grooming. Both breeds are large-sized dogs, so their space and feeding requirements are broadly similar. Both breeds have comparable exercise needs, though individual dogs will vary. Both breeds are well-suited to families with children.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Trait English Setter Irish Setter
Size Large Large
Weight 20–36 kg 20–32 kg
Height 61–69 cm 58–67 cm
Lifespan 12–14 yrs 12–15 yrs
Exercise Need
High (4/5)
Very High (5/5)
Grooming Need
Moderate (3/5)
Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Moderate (3/5)
Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
High (4/5)
High (4/5)
Good with Children ✓ ✓
Good with Dogs ✓ ✓
Apartment Friendly ✗ ✗

Bold green indicates the better result for that trait. Exercise, grooming and shedding: lower is easier to manage. Trainability and lifespan: higher is better.

Health Comparison

Understanding each breed's health profile helps owners budget for insurance, schedule appropriate screening, and make informed decisions before purchasing.

English Setter (5 conditions)

Irish Setter (5 conditions)

Conditions shared by both breeds: hip dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy , hypothyroidism .

Which Breed Is Right for You?

Based on data across health, exercise, trainability, and temperament, here is how the two breeds compare across common owner priorities:

Best for families with children both English Setter and Irish Setter
Best for apartment living neither breed — both thrive with access to outdoor space
Best for active owners Irish Setter (exercise level 5/5)
Best for first-time owners English Setter
Longer average lifespan both breeds have a similar average lifespan

Explore Each Breed in Depth

English Setter

One of the oldest of all sporting breeds, the English Setter was developed in England over 400 years ago to locate game …

large · Sporting · 12–14 yrs

Irish Setter

The Irish Setter's magnificent chestnut-red coat and graceful, high-stepping movement make it one of the most beautiful …

large · Sporting · 12–15 yrs

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is bigger — a English Setter or a Irish Setter?

The English Setter is the larger breed, typically weighing 20–36 kg compared to the Irish Setter's 20–32 kg.

Which breed lives longer — English Setter or Irish Setter?

Both breeds have a comparable average lifespan. The English Setter typically lives 12–14 years and the Irish Setter 12–15 years.

Are English Setters or Irish Setters easier to train?

Both the English Setter and Irish Setter have comparable trainability (4/5). Consistent positive reinforcement methods work well for both breeds.

Which needs more grooming — English Setter or Irish Setter?

Both breeds have similar grooming requirements (3/5). Regular brushing and routine coat maintenance apply equally to both.

Which breed is better for families — English Setter or Irish Setter?

Both the English Setter and Irish Setter are generally considered good family dogs and are typically patient and gentle with children. As always, early socialisation and teaching children how to interact respectfully with dogs are essential regardless of breed.

Do English Setters and Irish Setters have the same health problems?

Some health conditions are shared between both breeds, including hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism. The English Setter has 5 documented conditions overall and the Irish Setter has 5. Pet insurance is strongly recommended for both.

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