Irish Setter vs Puli

Sporting · Large vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Irish Setter is the larger breed at 70 lbs (males) vs 25–35 lbs for the Puli.
  • The Irish Setter typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Irish Setter has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Puli sheds less.
  • The Puli is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish SetterPuli
Group
SportingHerding
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
IrelandHungary
Height (male)
27"17"
Height (female)
25"16"
Weight (male)
70 lbs25–35 lbs
Weight (female)
60 lbs25–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years10–15 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)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
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)High (4/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Puli

The Puli is a loyal, smart, energetic Hungarian sheepdog with corded dreadlock coat — agile and acrobatic. Originally from Hungary, this medium herding breed typically weighs 25–35 lbs and lives 10–15 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, smart, energetic.

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Irish Setter health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Epilepsy
  • Eye disorders

Puli health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hearing problems