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Irish Setter
Sporting breed from Ireland
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is a large, elegant sporting dog with a long, flowing coat in mahogany or rich chestnut red. Bred in Ireland, it is known for its friendly, outgoing, and energetic temperament. While many individuals are intelligent, playful, and affectionate, behavior varies per dog. Its high energy level (5/5) means it thrives with ample exercise. Grooming needs are above average (4/5) due to the long coat, and shedding is moderate (3/5). The breed is generally well-suited to children (4/5) and other dogs (4/5), but less ideal for apartment living (2/5). Estimated adult height ranges from 66 to 74 cm, weight from 27 to 34 kg, and lifespan from 12 to 15 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Irish Setter at a glance
Sizelarge
Breed groupSporting
OriginIreland
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight27–34 kilogram
Female weight27–34 kilogram
Male height66–74 centimetre
Female height66–74 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Irish Setter was developed in 18th-century Ireland as a versatile gundog for setting and retrieving game birds. According to one source, it was created by crossing the Irish Water Spaniel, English Setter, and Pointer. The breed's striking mahogany color became a hallmark in the 19th century, distinguishing it from earlier red-and-white setters. However, the exact timeline and details of its development are not fully documented, and some historical claims may be uncertain. As a sporting breed, the Irish Setter was valued for its ability to work in the field, but its specific working purpose and historical events are not fully confirmed by the available facts. The breed's origins are firmly rooted in Ireland, and it is classified in the Sporting group. Its recognition status varies by registry, meaning not all kennel clubs may recognize it in the same way. The breed's elegant appearance and high-energy temperament have made it a popular companion, though its history as a working dog remains an important part of its identity.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
27–34 kilogramAdult weight66–74 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesLongCoat colorsMahogany, Rich chestnut redRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Friendlyoutgoingenergeticintelligentplayfulaffectionate
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Higher coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Irish Setter-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 5
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Growth chart
Irish Setter puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight27–34 kilogramAdult female weight27–34 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of an Irish Setter?
Irish Setters are large dogs. Estimated adult height ranges from 66 to 74 cm, and weight from 27 to 34 kg for both males and females. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. These are modelled estimates, so individual dogs may vary.
What is the temperament of an Irish Setter?
The breed is described as friendly, outgoing, energetic, intelligent, playful, and affectionate. However, not every individual dog behaves the same; temperament can vary. They generally have a high energy level (5/5) and are often good with children (4/5) and other dogs (4/5).
How much exercise does an Irish Setter need?
Irish Setters have a high energy score of 5 out of 5, indicating they need substantial daily exercise. They are an energetic breed that thrives on activities like running, hiking, or play sessions. Without enough exercise, they may become restless.
What are the grooming requirements for an Irish Setter?
Grooming needs are above average (4/5) due to the long coat. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent mats and tangles. Shedding is moderate (3/5). Professional grooming may be needed periodically.
Is an Irish Setter suitable for apartment living?
Irish Setters have low apartment suitability (2/5). Their large size and high energy make them better suited to homes with a yard or access to open spaces. They need room to move and exercise.
Where does the Irish Setter originate from?
The Irish Setter originates from Ireland. It was developed in the 18th century as a gundog, likely from crosses involving the Irish Water Spaniel, English Setter, and Pointer. The exact details of its origin are based on available sources and may have uncertainties.
Is the Irish Setter recognized by major kennel clubs?
Recognition status varies by registry. Some kennel clubs recognize the breed, while others may not. The available facts do not specify which registries accept it, so it is best to check with individual organizations.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.