English Bulldog vs Irish Setter

Non-Sporting · Medium vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Irish Setter is the larger breed at 70 lbs (males) vs 50 lbs for the English Bulldog.
  • 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

TraitEnglish BulldogIrish Setter
Group
Non-SportingSporting
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
EnglandIreland
Height (male)
14–15"27"
Height (female)
14–15"25"
Weight (male)
50 lbs70 lbs
Weight (female)
40 lbs60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
8–10 years12–15 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.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the English Bulldog

The English Bulldog is a calm, courageous, friendly English breed — wrinkly-faced, jowly mascot of universities and the Marines. Originally from England, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 50 lbs and lives 8–10 years. Breeders describe them as calm, courageous, friendly.

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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English Bulldog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Skin fold dermatitis

Irish Setter health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Epilepsy
  • Eye disorders