Irish Setter vs German Shepherd Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Red Setter or Alsatian?

Compare the Irish Setter and German Shepherd breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Red Setter or a Alsatian? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Irish Red Setter, Red Setter

Schäferhund, Deutscher Schäferhund, Berger Allemand, Alsatian wolf dog (UK), Alsatian

Weight

What is the average weight of Irish Setter and German Shepherd?

65.5 pounds ( 30 kg )

77.5 pounds ( 35 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Irish Setter and German Shepherd

24.5 inches ( 62.2 cm )

25.0 inches ( 63.5 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Irish Setter or German Shepherd?

Irish Setter has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

German Shepherd has average obesity risk, needs balanced diet, daily walks, and weight monitoring.

Hypoallergenic

Are Irish Setters or German Shepherds hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Irish Setter nor German Shepherd are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Irish Setter and German Shepherd dogs?

Affectionate
Energetic
Lively
Intelligent
Companionable
Independent
Playful

Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Obedient
Confident
Curious
Loyal
Watchful

Shedding Level

Do Irish Setters shed more than German Shepherds, or which breed sheds more, Irish Setters or German Shepherds?

Irish Setters are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

German Shepherds shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Irish Setter or German Shepherd?

Irish Setters are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Choose a German Shepherd if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

Origin

What is the origin of Irish Setter and German Shepherd dog breeds?

Ireland

Germany

Ancestry

What are the origins of Irish Setter and German Shepherd breeds?

setter, pointer, spaniel

Shepherding Dog, Wolf-type Dog

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Irish Setter and German Shepherd?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry

Date of Birth

When were Irish Setter and German Shepherd breeds first developed?

1700s

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Irish Setter and German Shepherd?

Sporting (AKC:1878)
Gundog (UKC)

Herding (AKC:1908, UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Irish Setter and German Shepherd dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Irish Setter and German Shepherd?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Irish Setter and German Shepherd breeds?

Red

Black
Gray
Red
Silver
Sable
Fawn

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Irish Setter and German Shepherd breeds?

Irish Setters have longer coats compared to most dogs.

German Shepherds have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Irish Setter and German Shepherd?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Irish Setter and German Shepherd?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Irish Setter and German Shepherd?

12-14 puppies per pregnancy

An Irish Setter can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

10-13 puppies per pregnancy

A German Shepherd can have a litter of 10-13 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Irish Setter and German Shepherds are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Irish Setter and German Shepherd, which breed is more prone to health problems?

While the Irish Setter breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

German Shepherds typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Irish Setter and German Shepherd breeds?

Gastric Torsion
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia
Epilepsy

Hip Dysplasia
Degenerative Myelopathy
Congenital Heart Defect

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Irish Setter and German Shepherd?

Cataracts
Megaesophagus
Von Willebrand's Disease
Hypothyroidism
Osteochondritis Dissecans

Panosteitis
Pannus
Perianal Fistulas
Hemophilia
Von Willebrand's Disease
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Irish Setter and German Shepherd breeds?

Eye
Hip
Blood Test
Dna Test For Vwd
Dna For Pra
Thyroid Tests
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Cardiac
Hip
Blood Test
Dna For Vwd
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Irish Setters and German Shepherds compare?

Irish Setter and German Shepherd breeds are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.

Social Needs

Irish Setter vs German Shepherd social needs comparison

Irish Setter has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

German Shepherd has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Exercise Needed

Irish Setter vs German Shepherd exercise need comparison.

Irish Setters need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

German Shepherds require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Irish Setter or German Shepherd?

Irish Setter and German Shepherd are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Irish Setter or German Shepherd?

Irish Setter has low drooling tendency, suitable for those who dislike drool marks.

German Shepherd minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Irish Setters or German Shepherds bark more/less frequently?

Irish Setters are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

German Shepherd dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Territorial

Is the Irish Setter or German Shepherd a better guard dog?

Irish Setter dogs may not be the best choice as guard dogs because they do not have a strong instinct to defend their territory.

German Shepherd dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Irish Setter vs German Shepherd?

Roaming urge

Irish Setter vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Irish Setter or German Shepherd - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Irish Setter and German Shepherd entertained?

Playing Ball, Hiking, Car Travel, Taking Naps

Tug-of-war, Walks, Fetch, Hike, Walk, Catch treats, Running, Frisbee, Mind games, Walking, Sniffing, Petting, Run, Nap, Hunt, Tracking, Hide & Seek, Head scratches, Go to Park, Playdate, Dog Parks, Back scratches, Exploring, Playing outside, Cuddles, Nose work, Observing, Barking, Chase, Eating Snacks

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Irish Setters or German Shepherds?

High

Irish Setters are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Medium

German Shepherds are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Irish Setter or German Shepherd walk each week?

15 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Irish Setter, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

10 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For German Shepherd, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Irish Setters or German Shepherds require more exercise?

90 minutes

In general most Irish Setters usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

60 minutes

In general most German Shepherds usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Irish Setters or German Shepherds?

Irish Setters require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

The German Shepherd requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Irish Setter and German Shepherd dogs?

Daily

Ideally, Irish Setter should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Weekly

German Shepherd should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Irish Setters and German Shepherds?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Dematter
Comb
Deshedder
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Irish Setter or German Shepherd in cups?

3 cups

Irish Setter and German Shepherd share the same recommended daily food intake of 3 cups, although the appropriate quantity may vary depending on the quality and nutritional content of their food.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Irish Setter or German Shepherd?

$2.80 - $3.20 / day

The average cost of an Irish Setter is somewhere $2.80 - $3.20 per day.

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

The average cost of a German Shepherd is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Irish Setter or German Shepherd?

$84 - $95 / month

The average per month expenses of an Irish Setter is between $84 - $95. This makes an average of $1008 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$55 - $77 / month

The average per month expenses of a German Shepherd is between $55 - $77. This makes an average of $660 - $924 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Irish Setters vs German Shepherds

Irish Setter is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

German Shepherd is highly intelligent and very trainable.

Sensitivity Level

How do Irish Setter and German Shepherd compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Irish Setter vs German Shepherd?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Irish Setter or German Shepherd?

The Irish Setter is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

German Shepherds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Irish Setters or German Shepherds have a friendlier temperament towards children?

The typical characteristics of Irish Setter and German Shepherd indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Irish Setter or German Shepherd?

Cat Friendly

Do Irish Setter or German Shepherd breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Irish Setters are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

German Shepherds are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Irish Setter or German Shepherd?

Irish Setters are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

German Shepherds are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do Irish Setter or German Shepherd dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Irish Setter or German Shepherd?

Irish Setters are highly friendly around strangers.

German Shepherds are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Irish Setter and German Shepherd?

Irish Setters are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

German Shepherds have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Irish Setters and German Shepherds compare?

The Irish Setter is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.

German Shepherds are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.