Exercise
Plan for heavy daily exercise and meaningful mental work. Dogs with this profile usually do best when physical activity is paired with training or enrichment.
SportingLarge
Ireland
IrelandIrish Setter
Weight
55-100 lb
Height
22-29 in
Lifespan
10-13 yrs
Coat
Silky Long
The Irish Setter is a versatile sporting breed valued for field ability, trainability, and enthusiasm.
Sporting group breedOrigin: IrelandExercise needs: 5/5
Breed Names
Official, native, and commonly used variants
Red SetterIrish Red Setter
EagerFriendlyActiveTrainableSociable
Weight
55-100 lb
Height
22-29 in
Lifespan
10-13 yrs
Coat
Silky Long
At A Glance
Daily living snapshot
A quick read on energy, upkeep, and what day-to-day life with this breed usually feels like.
Energy
High
Barking
Moderate
Drooling
Low
Shedding
Moderate
Grooming
2/5
First-time owner
Yes
Overview
The Irish Setter originated in Ireland and was developed for retrieving, flushing, or pointing work in the field. It remains best known for its recognizable outline, breed type, and dependable working or companion instincts.
In daily life, this breed is often described as eager, friendly, active. It usually does best in homes that can match the breed's exercise, social, and training needs.
Temperament & Personality
EagerFriendlyActiveTrainableSociable
This breed tends to suit homes looking for a eager, friendly, active companion, with daily rhythms shaped by high energy, moderate barking, and low drooling.
Coat type
Silky
Coat length
Long
Shedding
Moderate
Colors
Mahogany, Chestnut
Lifestyle Compatibility
Family Friendly4/5
Good with Kids4/5
Good with Dogs4/5
Good with Strangers4/5
Apartment Friendly2/5
Exercise Needs5/5
Grooming Needs2/5
Trainability4/5
Good fit if you want
- A family-friendly companion
- Room for routine exercise
- A more forgiving first ownership experience
Plan ahead for
- 5/5 exercise needs
- moderate shedding and coat upkeep
- moderate barking in daily life
Care Guide
Grooming
The long silky coat has moderate care needs. Brush regularly and stay current with ear, nail, dental, and skin checks.
Training
This breed generally responds well to clear routines, reward-based training, and early socialization.
Nutrition
Feed a quality diet sized for a large dog and keep body condition lean. Split daily portions into measured meals and adjust intake for age and activity.
Behavior & Environment
Energy level
High
Barking level
Moderate
Drooling level
Low
Watchdog ability
2/5
Guard dog ability
1/5
Climate tolerance
Cold weather3/5
Heat tolerance3/5
Health Considerations
Common concerns to discuss with your vet and breeder.
Hip or joint issuesEye diseaseObesity
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Irish Setter good for apartment living?
The Irish Setter usually does better in a home with more space and a routine that supports regular activity.
How much exercise does a Irish Setter need?
Most Irish Setter dogs do best with heavy daily exercise and meaningful mental work. Mental work and steady routines matter just as much as raw activity for many individuals.
Is the Irish Setter good for first-time owners?
Often yes, provided training, socialization, and realistic daily routines are in place.
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