Irish Setter vs Siberian Husky

Sporting · Large vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • Irish Setter is the larger breed at 70 lbs (males) vs 45–60 lbs for the Siberian Husky.
  • The Irish Setter typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Irish Setter sheds less.
  • The Irish Setter is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish SetterSiberian Husky
Group
SportingWorking
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
IrelandSiberia
Height (male)
27"21–23.5"
Height (female)
25"20–22"
Weight (male)
70 lbs45–60 lbs
Weight (female)
60 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)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)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)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)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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 Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is a friendly, mischievous, loyal pack dog bred to pull sleds — known for blue eyes and dramatic howls. Originally from Siberia, this medium working breed typically weighs 45–60 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, outgoing, mischievous.

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Irish Setter health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Epilepsy
  • Eye disorders

Siberian Husky health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Hypothyroidism