German Shorthaired Pointer vs Irish Setter
Sporting · Large vs Sporting · Large
German Shorthaired PointerLarge
A friendly, smart, willing-to-please all-around hunting and family dog with a liver-spotted coat.
Weight: 55–70 lbsLifespan: 10–12 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 55–70 lbs for the German Shorthaired Pointer.
- • The Irish Setter typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The German Shorthaired Pointer is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | German Shorthaired Pointer | Irish Setter |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Sporting |
Size | Large | Large |
Origin | Germany | Ireland |
Height (male) | 23–25" | 27" |
Height (female) | 21–23" | 25" |
Weight (male) | 55–70 lbs | 70 lbs |
Weight (female) | 45–60 lbs | 60 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–12 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. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | short | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a friendly, smart, willing-to-please all-around hunting and family dog with a liver-spotted coat. Originally from Germany, this large sporting breed typically weighs 55–70 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, smart, willing to please.
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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German Shorthaired Pointer health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Eye conditions
- • Lymphedema
Irish Setter health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Epilepsy
- • Eye disorders