What is the temperament of a Irish Setter?

Irish Setters are known to be affectionate, energetic, lively, independent, playful, companionable, athletic, couch, friendly, smart, gentle, brave, curious, funny, loyal. This combination of traits makes them excellent companions for families with children. Their temperament is influenced by both genetics and proper socialization from an early age.

How much exercise does a Irish Setter need?

Irish Setters are high-energy dogs requiring 60+ minutes of vigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation.

How often should I groom my Irish Setter?

Irish Setters need moderate grooming including brushing 2-3 times weekly and regular maintenance.

How do I train a Irish Setter?

Irish Setters have moderate trainability and benefit from consistent, positive training approaches.

Are Irish Setters good with children?

Irish Setters are excellent with children. Their natural patience, gentle nature, and resilience make them outstanding family dogs. They typically form strong bonds with children and tend to be forgiving of the occasional accidental rough handling that can occur with younger kids. Remember that proper socialization and teaching children appropriate interaction with dogs are always important, regardless of breed.

What makes the Irish Setter unique compared to other dog breeds?

The Irish Setter stands out from other breeds due to its rich heritage from Ireland, specialized abilities for bird setting, retrieving. This unique combination of characteristics makes them special among dog breeds and appeals to owners who appreciate these distinct qualities. Understanding these traits helps provide appropriate care tailored to their specific needs.

What should I know before getting a Irish Setter?

Before bringing a Irish Setter into your home, potential owners should consider: They have high exercise requirements (4/5) and need an active owner. They typically excel in family environments with children (5/5 child-friendliness). Their large size requires adequate living space. Additionally, researching reputable breeders or rescue organizations is essential for finding a healthy, well-socialized Irish Setter. Understanding these factors will help ensure a good match between the breed and your lifestyle, leading to a happy relationship for both you and your dog.

What were Irish Setters originally bred for?

Irish Setters were originally bred for bird setting, retrieving. As part of the Sporting group, they share characteristics with other breeds developed for similar purposes. Understanding your Irish Setter's breeding heritage helps explain many of their natural behaviors and instincts, which can be channeled appropriately through training and enrichment activities. Even though modern Irish Setters are primarily companions, these inherent traits remain part of their genetic makeup.

How long do Irish Setters typically live?

The average lifespan of a Irish Setter is 10 - 11 years. With proper care including quality nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate exercise, and preventative healthcare, some Irish Setters may live beyond this range. Genetics, environment, and healthcare all play important roles in determining longevity.

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Irish Setter

Written by Dr. Sarah Johnson, Veterinary Consultant

Published: January 15, 2024 • Last updated: February 3, 2026

Temperament

Affectionate, Energetic, Lively, Independent, Playful, Companionable, Athletic, Couch, Friendly, Smart, Gentle, Brave, Curious, Funny, Loyal

Weight

35 - 70 lbs

Height

24 - 27 inches

Life Span

10 - 11 years

Breed Group

Sporting

Bred For

Bird setting, retrieving

Origin

Ireland

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Additional Characteristics

Good with Children5/5

Good with Other Dogs5/5

Trainability3/5

Energy Level4/5

Grooming Needs3/5

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs4/5

They are high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Grooming Requirements3/5

They need moderate grooming, including regular brushing and occasional professional care.

Trainability3/5

Moderately trainable with consistent methods

Good with Children5/5

They are excellent with children and often form strong bonds with them.

Good with Other Dogs5/5

🐕 Irish Setter Guide

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Overview

About the Irish Setter

The Irish Setter is a wonderful dog breed with unique characteristics.

Breed Purpose

Bird setting, retrieving

Temperament

Affectionate, Energetic, Lively, Independent, Playful, Companionable, Athletic, Couch, Friendly, Smart, Gentle, Brave, Curious, Funny, Loyal

How We Find Similar Breeds

We analyze breed characteristics including temperament, size, appearance, and care needs to identify the most similar dog breeds. This helps you discover alternatives that might be a good match for your lifestyle and preferences.

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Irish Setter

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