English Springer Spaniel vs Irish Setter

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.

English Springer Spaniel vs Irish Setter — at a glance

The English Springer Spaniel (18–25 kg, 12–14 years) and the Irish Setter (25–32 kg, 12–15 years) sit in different — or sometimes overlapping — corners of dog ownership. Here's how they really compare for an everyday Irish or UK family.

Both breeds have similar energy demands — Irish Setter tips slightly higher but neither is a couch dog.

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.

	English Springer Spaniel	Irish Setter
Group	Sporting	Sporting
Origin	England	Ireland
Weight	18–25 kg	25–32 kg
Height	46–53 cm	63–69 cm
Lifespan	12–14 years	12–15 years
Energy level
Trainability
Grooming needs
Good with kids
Good with other pets
Hypoallergenic
Watchdog instinct
Novice-owner OK

English Springer Spaniel

Temperament

Cheerful, friendly, eager-to-please, sociable. Springers are excellent with children and other dogs.

Exercise

90+ minutes of daily exercise. They love retrieving, scent work and water.

Grooming

Medium-length coat with feathering. Brush 3× weekly. Long ears need weekly cleaning.

Health

Hip dysplasia. Eye conditions (PRA, retinal dysplasia). Ear infections. Phosphofructokinase deficiency (DNA test). "Rage syndrome" historically, mostly bred out.

Full English Springer Spaniel profile →