Irish Setter
Trait scores
Health risk profile
Conditions below are ranked by documented prevalence and severity in the Irish Setter. Risk level drives both veterinary costs and insurance pricing.
| Condition | Risk | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat (GDV) | moderate | Deep-chested athlete; rest after meals and know torsion signs. |
| Hip dysplasia | moderate | Standard sporting-breed risk; request OFA or PennHIP scores. |
| Progressive retinal atrophy | moderate | Inherited retinal degeneration; DNA testing identifies carriers. |
| Hypothyroidism | moderate | Common in middle age; cheap to diagnose and treat. |
| Epilepsy | moderate | Idiopathic seizures appear in some lines; usually controllable with medication. |
Pet insurance for a Irish Setter
Monthly accident-and-illness premiums for a healthy adult Irish Setter, based on current rate data across major insurers. Enrolling early locks in coverage before breed-linked conditions become pre-existing.
Annual cost of ownership
Excluding insurance, budget $1,600–$2,700 per year for food, routine veterinary care, grooming, and supplies for a Irish Setter. Chronic conditions from the risk table above can add significantly to that range — one reason breed-matched insurance matters.
About the Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is a mahogany-red bird dog developed in Ireland for finding and setting game, and it remains one of the most outgoing and joyful of the sporting breeds. It matures slowly, retaining puppy exuberance for years, and needs one to two hours of daily exercise plus human company — isolation produces destructive boredom. Setters are famously gentle with children and other dogs but too friendly to guard anything. Grooming is moderate: regular brushing keeps the feathered coat tangle-free. Suits active families with time and patience.
Origin: Ireland
Temperament
Irish Setter FAQ
How long do Irish Setters live?
The typical Irish Setter lifespan is 12–15 years. Diet, weight management, and screening for the breed's known hereditary conditions have the largest measurable effect on longevity.
How much does pet insurance cost for a Irish Setter?
Based on current rate data, expect to pay roughly $42–$74 per month for accident-and-illness coverage on a healthy adult Irish Setter. Premiums rise with age and vary by location and deductible.
Is the Irish Setter a good apartment dog?
Usually not. At 55–70 lbs with an energy level of 5/5, the Irish Setter needs more space and daily exercise than most apartments can offer.
What health problems are Irish Setters prone to?
The most significant documented risks are Bloat (GDV), Hip dysplasia, Progressive retinal atrophy. Ask breeders for the relevant health clearances and budget for insurance early, before any condition becomes pre-existing.