The 60-second version of the Irish Setter: what they're like, what they need, and whether one would suit your home — written for Australian owners.
Irish Setter at a glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed group | Gundog |
| Weight | 25–32 kg |
| Lifespan | 11–15 years |
| Energy | Very high — runs and plays |
| Coat | Long, silky mahogany |
| Grooming | Brush 2–3 times weekly |
| Shedding | Moderate to high |
| Good with kids | Outstanding — playful and gentle |
| Puppy price (AU) | $1,800–$3,000 |
| Insurance (AU) | ~$50–$85/month |
Living with a Irish Setter in Australia
The Irish Setter is canine joy made visible — a mahogany-red gundog that approaches life at a gallop, tail first. They’re among the friendliest breeds alive (burglars get greeted, not guarded), wonderful with children, and slow to mature: expect adolescent energy until three or four. In Australia they need serious daily exercise and owners who find the eternal-teenager act charming rather than exhausting. For active families wanting beauty, bounce and zero aggression, the Irish Setter delivers.
Health watch-outs
A sound gundog with a few notes:
- Hip dysplasia and bloat — the large athletic standards.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA-rcd1) — DNA-testable.
- Hypothyroidism and epilepsy — seen in the breed; annual checks.
Budget at a glance
- Puppy price: typically $1,800–$3,000 from a registered breeder — much lower offers are often scams.
- Insurance: around $50–$85/month — see our pet insurance cost guide for what shapes premiums.
- Grooming the feathering and feeding the engine are the ongoing costs.
Is a Irish Setter right for you?
Great fit if you… ✅
- Active families wanting a friendly, beautiful athlete
- Homes with yards and exercise time
- People who love the eternal-puppy personality
Think twice if… ⚠️
- Slow to mature — adolescent chaos lasts years
- No guarding instinct whatsoever
Keep exploring
🍖 Best food: See our dog food picks — chosen for Australian conditions and budgets
🛡️ Insurance: What pet insurance costs in Australia — breed-by-breed premium guidance