Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.
The Brittany (14–18 kg, 12–14 years) and the English Setter (20–30 kg, 11–13 years) sit in different — or sometimes overlapping — corners of dog ownership. Here's how they really compare for an everyday Irish or UK family.
Energy levels are well-matched between the Brittany and English Setter — both need similar daily exercise.
Both have manageable grooming routines — the English Setter demands slightly more, but neither needs daily fuss.
Insurance premiums for breeds with brachycephalic, joint or cancer predispositions run 20–40% above average — check before you commit. We have a free quote calculator here.
| Brittany | English Setter | |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Sporting | Sporting |
| Origin | France (Brittany region) | England |
| Weight | 14–18 kg | 20–30 kg |
| Height | 44–52 cm | 58–69 cm |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years | 11–13 years |
| Energy level | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good with other pets | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Watchdog instinct | ||
| Novice-owner OK |
Affectionate, sensitive, eager to please. Excellent with children + other dogs. Slightly soft — harsh training methods damage them. Strong prey drive for birds.
60–90 minutes daily of varied exercise. Loves running, swimming, fetch, scent work.
Medium-length flat or wavy coat with light feathering. Brush 2× weekly. Light shedder.
Generally healthy. Watch for: hip dysplasia, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, glaucoma.
Full Brittany profile →Sweet, gentle, devoted. Famously patient with children. Friendly with other dogs and even cats when raised together. Sensitive to harsh training — positive methods only.
90+ minutes daily of off-lead running ideally. Built for endurance. Without enough exercise they become destructive.
Long, silky, feathered coat needs brushing 2–3× weekly. Trim feathers around feet + ears every 6 weeks. Heavy seasonal shedding. Check ears weekly (long, floppy → infection prone).
Watch for: hip dysplasia, deafness (congenital, especially in heavily-spotted dogs), hypothyroidism, allergies, autoimmune issues.
Full English Setter profile →Active families with kids, runners + hikers, sensitive trainers.
Active families with garden access, owners committed to daily long exercise, sensitive training households.
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