Irish Setter vs Miniature Schnauzer
Sporting · Large vs Terrier · Small
Irish SetterLarge
An active, outgoing, sweet-tempered gundog with a famous mahogany coat — exuberant and a little goofy.
Weight: 70 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Miniature SchnauzerSmall
A friendly, smart, obedient ratter — the eyebrowed, bearded German farm dog scaled down for family life.
Weight: 11–20 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Irish Setter is the larger breed at 70 lbs (males) vs 11–20 lbs for the Miniature Schnauzer.
- • The Irish Setter has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Miniature Schnauzer sheds less.
- • The Miniature Schnauzer is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Irish Setter | Miniature Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Terrier |
Size | Large | Small |
Origin | Ireland | Germany |
Height (male) | 27" | 12–14" |
Height (female) | 25" | 12–14" |
Weight (male) | 70 lbs | 11–20 lbs |
Weight (female) | 60 lbs | 11–20 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | long | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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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.
About the Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is a friendly, smart, obedient ratter — the eyebrowed, bearded German farm dog scaled down for family life. Originally from Germany, this small terrier breed typically weighs 11–20 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, smart, obedient.
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Irish Setter health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Epilepsy
- • Eye disorders
Miniature Schnauzer health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Pancreatitis
- • Diabetes
- • Bladder stones
- • Cataracts