Doberman Pinscher vs Irish Setter

Working · Large vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Doberman Pinscher is the larger breed at 75–100 lbs (males) vs 70 lbs for the Irish Setter.
  • The Irish Setter typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Doberman Pinscher is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitDoberman PinscherIrish Setter
Group
WorkingSporting
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
GermanyIreland
Height (male)
26–28"27"
Height (female)
24–26"25"
Weight (male)
75–100 lbs70 lbs
Weight (female)
60–90 lbs60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years12–15 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.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)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
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher is a loyal, fearless, alert guardian — sleek, athletic, and one of the most intelligent breeds in the world. Originally from Germany, this large working breed typically weighs 75–100 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, fearless, alert.

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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Doberman Pinscher health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Von Willebrand's disease
  • Bloat

Irish Setter health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Epilepsy
  • Eye disorders