Irish Setter vs Pomeranian

Sporting · Large vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Irish Setter is the larger breed at 70 lbs (males) vs 3–7 lbs for the Pomeranian.
  • The Pomeranian typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Irish Setter has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Irish Setter sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish SetterPomeranian
Group
SportingToy
Size
LargeToy
Origin
IrelandGermany
Height (male)
27"6–7"
Height (female)
25"6–7"
Weight (male)
70 lbs3–7 lbs
Weight (female)
60 lbs3–7 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)High (4/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

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 Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a bold, lively, inquisitive fluffy spitz — descended from sled dogs, now under 10 lbs of pure attitude. Originally from Germany, this toy toy breed typically weighs 3–7 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as bold, lively, inquisitive.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Irish Setter health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Epilepsy
  • Eye disorders

Pomeranian health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Heart disease
  • Dental issues