Irish Setter
Ireland, 18th century; bred as a hunting dog for retrieving and pointing upland game in open terrain
Weight
25-32 kg
Height
58-67 cm shoulder height
Lifespan
11-15 years
The Irish Setter is an exuberant, warm dog who enjoys life with everything he has. He is social, playful and never aggressive — but he is also distracted, puppy for a long time and has more energy than most people expect. His enthusiasm is infectious, his concentration is moderate.
Character & traits
Practical
- Exercise per day
- 2 to 3 hours
- Max alone
- 4 hours
- Garden needed
- Yes
- Apartment
- Less suitable
- Insurance
- €55–85/mo
- Food
- €65–90/mo
Frequently asked questions
Is the Irish Setter suitable for beginners?+
How much exercise does a Irish Setter need?+
Is the Irish Setter good with children?+
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What Irish Setter owners typically need
Accessories
Sturdy harness
High-energy dogs pull more. A good harness gives you control without pressure on the throat.
Grooming
Nail clipper
Not much coat to brush, but nails keep growing. Clip them every 2-3 weeks.
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🛡️ Insurance
A basic policy for the Irish Setter typically runs €55–€85/month in the Netherlands — US rates vary but are usually comparable. The exact amount depends on the dog's age and the insurer.
Is pet insurance worth it for this breed? →