Australian Kelpie vs Irish Setter
Herding · Medium vs Sporting · Large
Australian KelpieMedium
A clever, devoted, energetic Australian sheep musterer — outback workaholic with an off-switch problem.
Weight: 35–50 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Irish SetterLarge
An active, outgoing, sweet-tempered gundog with a famous mahogany coat — exuberant and a little goofy.
Weight: 70 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Irish Setter is the larger breed at 70 lbs (males) vs 35–50 lbs for the Australian Kelpie.
- • The Australian Kelpie is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Australian Kelpie | Irish Setter |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Sporting |
Size | Medium | Large |
Origin | Australia | Ireland |
Height (male) | 17–20" | 27" |
Height (female) | 15–18" | 25" |
Weight (male) | 35–50 lbs | 70 lbs |
Weight (female) | 30–45 lbs | 60 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very Low (1/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | short | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Australian Kelpie
The Australian Kelpie is a clever, devoted, energetic Australian sheep musterer — outback workaholic with an off-switch problem. Originally from Australia, this medium herding breed typically weighs 35–50 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as clever, devoted, energetic.
About the Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is an active, outgoing, sweet-tempered gundog with a famous mahogany coat — exuberant and a little goofy. Originally from Ireland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 70 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as active, outgoing, sweet-tempered.
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Australian Kelpie health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cerebellar abiotrophy
- • Cryptorchidism
Irish Setter health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Epilepsy
- • Eye disorders