Irish SetterVSEnglish Setter
The Irish Setter and the English Setter are both gorgeous, long-coated sporting breeds developed for bird hunting, but they differ in coloring, temperament, and energy intensity. The Irish Setter is known for its exuberant personality and rich mahogany coat, while the English Setter is often described as the gentler, slightly more mellow of the two. Here is a full comparison.
Last reviewed: June 2026
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Irish Setter | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 60–70 lbs, 25–27 in | 45–80 lbs, 23–27 in |
| Energy Level | Very High | ✓High |
| Trainability | Good (easily distracted) | ✓Good |
| Shedding | Moderate to Heavy | Moderate to Heavy |
| Good With Kids | Excellent | Excellent |
| Good With Other Dogs | Very Good | Very Good |
| Grooming Needs | Moderate to High | Moderate to High |
| Life Expectancy | ✓12–15 years | 12–14 years |
| Exercise Needs | 90+ min/day | ✓60–90 min/day |
| Price Range | ✓$700–$1,500 | $800–$1,800 |
✓ indicates advantage in this category. Tie = comparable.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Choose a Irish Setter if…
Choose an Irish Setter if you want an enthusiastic, outgoing, high-energy companion with a stunning deep red coat who thrives on active family life.
Choose a English Setter if…
Choose an English Setter if you want a slightly calmer, more gentle sporting dog with a beautiful speckled coat who is an excellent all-round family companion.
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Compare Pet Insurance QuotesFrequently Asked Questions
Which setter is better for families with children?
Both breeds are outstanding family dogs with gentle, affectionate temperaments. Irish Setters tend to be more boisterous and may accidentally knock over small children during play due to their exuberance. English Setters are slightly more subdued and are often described as the gentler companion. Both breeds are patient, non-aggressive, and wonderful with kids.
Which setter requires less exercise?
English Setters require slightly less exercise than Irish Setters. While both are sporting breeds that need significant daily activity, Irish Setters maintain extremely high energy well into adulthood and need 90 or more minutes of vigorous exercise daily. English Setters can be satisfied with 60 to 90 minutes, making them marginally more manageable for active but not elite-athlete owners.
Are setters hard to train?
Both Irish and English Setters are intelligent but easily distracted by scents and movement, which is a product of their hunting heritage. They respond well to positive reinforcement training but require patience and consistency. Irish Setters in particular are known for maintaining a puppy-like distractibility well into adulthood. Neither breed does well with harsh training methods.
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