Irish Setter - MAIN HUB
BREED GROUP
Sporting Dogs
Country of origin
Ireland
BREED SIZE
Large
BREED HEIGHT
25 -
27 IN
64 -
69 cm
BREED WEIGHT
60 -
70 LB
27 -
32 KG
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
american kennel club (AKC) recognition
Yes
Breed was recognized in 1878.
International Canine Federation (FCI) recognition
Yes
Breed was recognized in 1954.
WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?
Are Irish Setters good family dogs?
Excellent
10 out of 10
Irish Setters are exceptionally family-friendly dogs, valued for their sweet temperaments and playful nature with children. Because they are high-energy and slow to mature, they require active families who can provide over two hours of daily exercise and consistent training to manage their rambunctious behavior.
Are Irish Setters good with kids?
Excellent
10 out of 10
Irish Setters are generally excellent with children, known for their sweet-tempered, patient, and playful "rollicking" nature. While their large size and high energy mean they can be accidentally boisterous around toddlers, their affectionate disposition makes them devoted family companions. Early training and supervision during play ensure they interact safely and gently with kids.
Are Irish Setters good dogs for first time owners?
Not Recommended
1 out of 10
Irish Setters are generally not recommended for first-time owners unless they are prepared for the breed's high energy levels and slow mental maturation. While sweet-tempered and affectionate, their need for over two hours of daily exercise and their tendency toward separation anxiety can be overwhelming for those without prior experience in managing active sporting dogs.
Are Irish Setters good apartment dogs?
Poor
2 out of 10
Irish Setters are generally not recommended for apartment living due to their high energy levels, large size, and need for significant daily exercise. They are exceptionally athletic gundogs that thrive in larger homes with access to a securely fenced yard where they can run freely. While it is possible for highly dedicated owners to keep an Irish Setter in an apartment by committing to several hours of vigorous outdoor activity and mental stimulation daily, the breed's rambunctious nature and slow maturity often make small living spaces a challenge.
Do Irish Setters need a yard?
Strictly Required
1 out of 10
Irish Setters benefit significantly from having a large, securely fenced yard where they can run freely and burn off their abundant energy. While they can adapt to smaller living spaces if their extensive exercise needs—often over two hours daily—are met through long walks and active play, a yard is highly recommended to accommodate their "rollicking" nature and provide a safe outlet for their high physical demands. Owners must ensure fencing is secure, as their strong hunting instincts may lead them to follow a scent and wander off.
Can Irish Setters be left at home alone?
Poor
2 out of 10
Irish Setters are highly social dogs that thrive on companionship and are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. While they can manage short intervals of solitude, they prefer being part of family activities and may become destructive or develop nuisance barking if isolated too long. Households where someone is frequently present or can provide a midday break are best suited for this affectionate breed.
Do Irish Setters tolerate cats well?
Average
5 out of 10
Irish Setters are generally social and good-natured companions that can coexist well with cats, particularly when raised together from puppyhood. Their sweet-tempered and playful disposition often makes them friendly toward other household pets. However, due to their strong hunting heritage and high energy, they may have a natural instinct to chase smaller animals. Owners should manage introductions slowly and provide consistent training to ensure their "rollicking" play style remains gentle and safe for feline companions.
Are Irish Setters known to be aggressive?
Gentle
9 out of 10
Irish Setters are not naturally aggressive; they are famously friendly, sweet-tempered, and outgoing dogs that typically treat everyone as a new friend. While they may bark to alert owners of visitors, they lack strong guarding instincts and are generally welcoming to strangers and other dogs. Any uncharacteristic aggression is rare and usually attributed to a lack of socialization, underlying health issues, or extreme boredom.
Do Irish Setters have a lot of energy?
Hyperactive
10 out of 10
Irish Setters are high-energy sporting dogs that require substantial daily physical and mental stimulation. They thrive on vigorous activities such as running, hiking, and agility, needing at least two hours of daily engagement to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors like chewing or digging.
How much exercise do Irish Setters need?
~120+ min a day
10 out of 10
Irish Setters are highly active sporting dogs that require at least two hours of vigorous daily exercise to stay healthy and prevent destructive behaviors. This should include a combination of long brisk walks, running, hiking, or swimming, alongside mental stimulation through activities like agility training, scent work, and interactive puzzle toys. Given their high energy and stamina, they thrive in active households where they can participate in frequent outdoor adventures.
Do Irish Setters tolerate hot weather well?
Average
5 out of 10
Irish Setters have a moderate tolerance for hot weather but can struggle in high temperatures due to their thick coats and active nature. Owners should provide constant access to fresh water and shade, and limit vigorous exercise to the cooler morning or evening hours to prevent overheating. During extreme heatwaves, keeping their coat trimmed and providing cooling options like a paddling pool can help maintain their comfort.
Are Irish Setters good with cold weather?
Average
5 out of 10
Irish Setters have a moderate tolerance for hot weather but can struggle in high temperatures due to their thick coats and active nature. Owners should provide constant access to fresh water and shade, and limit vigorous exercise to the cooler morning or evening hours to prevent overheating. During extreme heatwaves, keeping their coat trimmed and providing cooling options like a paddling pool can help maintain their comfort.
Are Irish Setters sometimes banned from rentals?
Sometimes Restricted
5 out of 10
Irish Setters are rarely subject to aggressive breed bans, as they are renowned for their friendly and non-aggressive temperaments. However, they frequently face restrictions due to their large size, which often exceeds common 50-pound weight limits in apartment complexes. Because of their rollicking nature and exceptionally high exercise needs, owners should verify specific landlord policies and ensure they can provide sufficient daily activity to keep this athletic breed happy and well-behaved in a rental environment.
WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?
