Irish Setter vs Vizsla

Sporting · Large vs Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Irish Setter is the larger breed at 70 lbs (males) vs 55–60 lbs for the Vizsla.
  • The Irish Setter typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Vizsla sheds less.
  • The Vizsla is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish SetterVizsla
Group
SportingSporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
IrelandHungary
Height (male)
27"22–24"
Height (female)
25"21–23"
Weight (male)
70 lbs55–60 lbs
Weight (female)
60 lbs44–55 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)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longshort
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 Vizsla

The Vizsla is an affectionate, energetic, gentle Hungarian pointer — the original 'velcro dog' that needs constant company. Originally from Hungary, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 55–60 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, energetic, gentle.

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Irish Setter health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Epilepsy
  • Eye disorders

Vizsla health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypothyroidism