Irish Setter

Irish Setter Grooming Profile

Irish Setters are large, high-energy sporting dogs that reach full maturity by age three. They possess a silky mahogany double coat that requires brushing 2-3 times weekly to prevent mats. As moderate shedders, they are not hypoallergenic. They demand at least two hours of daily exercise and a controlled diet of 2-3 cups to manage bloat risks.

Breed Group

Sporting Dogs

Country of Origin

Ireland

Breed Size

Large

AKC Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1878

FCI Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1954

Allergy-friendly

Worst Choice

5 / 10

Shedding

Moderate

5 / 10

Grooming need

1 hour/week

5 / 10

Low-maintenance

Hard

2 / 10

Size

Large

7 / 10

Growth timeline

18-24 months

8 / 10

Grooming FAQ

Are Irish Setter hypoallergenic or allergy-friendly?

Irish Setters are not hypoallergenic. They possess a silky double coat that sheds moderately year-round and more heavily during seasonal changes. This shedding releases dander and fur into the home, which can trigger reactions in allergy sufferers, making them unsuitable for those with significant sensitivities.

Allergy-friendly: 5 / 10

Do Irish Setter shed?

Irish Setters are moderate year-round shedders with silky, mahogany double coats. They experience heavier shedding during seasonal transitions in spring and fall. To manage loose hair and prevent mats in their beautiful feathering, owners should commit to brushing at least two to three times per week.

Shedding: 5 / 10

How often should you groom a Irish Setter?

To maintain an Irish Setter's stunning silky coat, brush them at least two to three times weekly with a pin brush and metal comb to prevent mats. Pay close attention to the feathering on their ears, legs, and chest, and trim their nails and clean their ears regularly.

Grooming need: 5 / 10

Are Irish Setter low-maintenance dogs?

Irish Setters are high-maintenance dogs that require significant time and commitment. Their beautiful silky coats need brushing several times a week to prevent matting. Additionally, these energetic athletes demand at least two hours of daily vigorous exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. They require at least two hours of daily vigorous exercise.

Low-maintenance: 2 / 10

How big do Irish Setter get?

Irish Setters are medium-to-large, elegant dogs. Males typically stand 27 inches tall and weigh about 70 pounds, while females average 25 inches and 60 pounds. Their athletic, mahogany-colored frames are built for endurance, making them substantial yet graceful companions for active families with plenty of space.

Size: 7 / 10

When do Irish Setter stop growing?

Irish Setters typically reach their full adult height between 12 and 18 months of age. While their skeletal growth slows, they continue to fill out and gain muscle mass until they reach full adult size by approximately 18-24 months.

Growth timeline: 8 / 10

How much should a Irish Setter eat?

Adult Irish Setters typically require 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Active Irish Setters often require 1.5 to 2 hours of exercise, which may impact caloric needs beyond the 2-3 cups range.

Feeding amount: 6 / 10

How often should a Irish Setter puppy eat?

Irish Setter puppies require frequent meals to support their rapid growth and powerful development. Feed them three to four times daily, with the transition from three meals to two typically occurring around six months of age. The transition from three meals to two typically occurs around six months of age.

Puppy feeding frequency: 3 / 10

Vet Insights

Irish Setters are large, high-energy sporting dogs that reach full maturity by age three. They possess a silky mahogany double coat that requires brushing 2-3 times weekly to prevent mats. As moderate shedders, they are not hypoallergenic. They demand at least two hours of daily exercise and a controlled diet of 2-3 cups to manage bloat risks.

Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
VeterinarianResearcherDog breed specialist
Verified