Large breedsporting group

Irish Setter

Irish Setters are the lovable goofballs of the sporting group — joyful, affectionate, and famously fun-loving. They bond deeply with their families and tend to treat every household member, including kids, as their best friend. Expect a dog that stays puppy-like in spirit well into adulthood, which means lots of laughter, lots of love, and the occasional shoe casualty.

Temperament

affectionate · energetic · playful · outgoing · intelligent · mischievous

Size

Typically 60–70 lbs and 25–27 inches at the shoulder.

Best for

families, active owners, multi pet homes, needs a yard

Energy level

high

Shedding

Yes

Grooming

Moderate

Training

Moderate

Lifespan

12–15 years

Behavior & traits

gentle with kids
social butterfly
playful clown
eager to please
slow to mature

Health concerns

Irish Setters can be prone to hip dysplasia, bloat (gastric torsion), and certain eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy. Some lines also carry hypothyroidism and epilepsy. Choosing a reputable breeder who tests for these issues and scheduling regular vet checkups can help families catch problems early.

Responsible breeding and regular check-ups go a long way. Always ask breeders about health testing.

Feeding & nutrition

Feed a high-quality large-breed formula split into two or three meals a day to help reduce the risk of bloat. Active adults typically eat 2–3 cups daily, but portions should be adjusted based on age, activity, and body condition. Avoid heavy exercise immediately before or after meals.

Exercise needs

Plan on at least 1–2 hours of vigorous exercise daily — this is a true sporting dog with stamina to spare. Families can meet those needs with long walks, backyard fetch, jogging, hiking, or dog sports like agility. A bored Irish Setter is a mischievous Irish Setter, so mental enrichment matters just as much as physical activity.

Living with a Irish Setter

Living with an Irish Setter means living with a happy shadow — they want to be wherever the family is, whether that's the kitchen during dinner prep or piled on the couch during movie night. They're famously slow to mature, so families should expect puppy energy and antics well past the two-year mark. Their silky red coat is stunning but needs regular brushing to prevent mats, especially behind the ears and on the feathering. Kids and Setters often become inseparable playmates, though their bouncy enthusiasm means very small toddlers can get knocked over during play. Overall, they bring joy, laughter, and a whole lot of love — just be ready for muddy paws, stolen socks, and a dog who genuinely believes every guest came to see them.

Recommended products

A sturdy slicker brush and metal comb are essentials for keeping that gorgeous feathered coat tangle-free, along with quality dog shampoo for their frequent muddy adventures. Invest in a front-clip harness for walks (Setters can pull when excited) and a slow-feeder or elevated bowl to support healthy eating habits. Durable fetch toys, puzzle feeders, and a long training leash will help channel their energy and sharp minds. A washable couch cover wouldn't hurt either — this breed loves to lounge with the family.

Reads for Irish Setter owners

[header] A cheerful cartoon dog leaping after a butterfly in a sunny

Article

The Lovable Goofball: A Dog Archetype Portrait

All heart, zero plan, and impossible not to adore — meet the Lovable Goofball. If your dog greets the mail carrier like a long-lost cousin and forgets the sit cue mid-sit, this portrait is going to feel familiar. Here's what makes them tick, and the kind of person who brings out their best.

All ages7 min read

Illustrated

Engaging Activities for Border Collies: A How-To Guide

Is your Border Collie always on the lookout for something to do? Dive into engaging mental activities that will keep their sharp minds busy and entertained!

All ages2 min read

[header] Senior dog resting on an orthopedic bed while a puppy waits

Checklist

Before the Puppy Arrives: A Pre-Arrival Checklist for Your Senior Dog

Your calm senior dog has been quietly compensating for aches, stiffness, and fading senses for years — and a new puppy is about to expose all of it. This pre-arrival checklist walks you through the vet workup, pain baseline, and home setup to tackle in the weeks *before* pickup day, so your older dog isn't blindsided by the chaos.

Senior8 min read