English Setter vs Irish Red Setter
| Attribute | English Setter | Irish Red Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Height | 58 - 69 cm | 64 - 69 cm |
| Weight | 28 kg | 29 kg |
| Life Expectancy | 12 years | 14 years |
| FCI Group | Companion and Toy Dogs | Companion and Toy Dogs |
| Grooming | Medium | Medium |
| Shedding | Medium | Medium |
| Energy Level | High | Very high |
| Trainability | Low | Low |
| Child Friendly | High | Medium |
| Character | The English Setter is a friendly and well-balanced dog with a gentle nature. | The Irish Red Setter is a lively and friendly dog known for its joyful and energetic nature. |
How we compare
This comparison is based on structured breed data from our Hundeo profiles and editorial fit criteria. It is meant as orientation, not as a substitute for individual advice from a trainer or veterinarian.
- Data basis: size, weight, life expectancy, FCI group, and profile details come from maintained breed profiles.
- Everyday fit: grooming, activity, trainability, child-friendliness, and living situation are evaluated as guidance for common owner questions.
- Independence: breed comparisons do not contain paid placements; recommendations follow the criteria, not commissions.
- Limits: every dog is individual. Health, behavior, and training questions should be discussed with a veterinarian or qualified trainer when needed.
Comparison
English Setter
Irish Red Setter
- 1Energy LevelEnglish Setter4/5Irish Red Setter5/5
- 2TrainabilityEnglish Setter2/5Irish Red Setter2/5
- 3Child FriendlyEnglish Setter4/5Irish Red Setter3/5
- 4GroomingEnglish Setter3/5Irish Red Setter3/5
- 5SheddingEnglish Setter3/5Irish Red Setter3/5
Summary
The English Setter is a medium dog (28 kg) with a life expectancy of 12 years. The Irish Red Setter is large (29 kg) and lives 14 years. For grooming, the English Setter rates medium, the Irish Red Setter medium. The English Setter scores high for child-friendliness, the Irish Red Setter medium. For beginners, the English Setter is the better choice.
Which breed is a better fit?
For BeginnersEnglish Setter has low trainability with high energy
English SetterFor FamiliesEnglish Setter has high child-friendliness
English Setter
For Active PeopleIrish Red Setter has very high energy level
Irish Red SettervsLow Maintenance
Both breeds are comparable
For ApartmentsEnglish Setter is medium with high energy
English SetterFrequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between English Setter and Irish Red Setter?
The English Setter is a medium dog (28 kg) with high energy. The Irish Red Setter is large (29 kg) with very high energy. The English Setter lives 12 years, the Irish Red Setter 14 years.
Which breed is better for families: English Setter or Irish Red Setter?
The English Setter's child-friendliness is rated high, the Irish Red Setter's as medium. Both breeds should be socialized with children early.
Which breed needs more grooming: English Setter or Irish Red Setter?
Grooming needs for the English Setter are medium, for the Irish Red Setter medium. Shedding is medium for the English Setter and medium for the Irish Red Setter.