Chow Chow vs Irish Setter
Non-Sporting · Medium vs Sporting · Large
Chow ChowMedium
A dignified, bright, serious-minded ancient Chinese breed with a famous purple-blue tongue.
Weight: 45–70 lbsLifespan: 8–12 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 45–70 lbs for the Chow Chow.
- • The Irish Setter typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Irish Setter has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Irish Setter is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Chow Chow | Irish Setter |
|---|---|---|
Group | Non-Sporting | Sporting |
Size | Medium | Large |
Origin | China | Ireland |
Height (male) | 17–20" | 27" |
Height (female) | 17–20" | 25" |
Weight (male) | 45–70 lbs | 70 lbs |
Weight (female) | 45–70 lbs | 60 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 8–12 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Low (2/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Low (2/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Very Low (1/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Low (2/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a dignified, bright, serious-minded ancient Chinese breed with a famous purple-blue tongue. Originally from China, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–70 lbs and lives 8–12 years. Breeders describe them as dignified, bright, serious-minded.
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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Chow Chow health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Skin issues
- • Bloat
Irish Setter health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Epilepsy
- • Eye disorders