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 Irish Setter (25–32 kg, 12–15 years) and the Welsh Springer Spaniel (16–25 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.
| Irish Setter | Welsh Springer Spaniel | |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Sporting | Sporting |
| Origin | Ireland | Wales |
| Weight | 25–32 kg | 16–25 kg |
| Height | 63–69 cm | 43–48 cm |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years | 12–15 years |
| Energy level | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good with other pets | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Watchdog instinct | ||
| Novice-owner OK |
Joyful, affectionate, sociable, sometimes scatterbrained. Excellent with children and other pets. Bonded with everyone.
90+ minutes of daily exercise. They love to run.
Long silky red coat. Brush 3× weekly. Light trimming around feet/ears.
Bloat / GDV. Hip dysplasia. PRA. Hypothyroidism. Epilepsy in some lines.
Full Irish Setter profile →Affectionate, loyal, more reserved with strangers than English Springers. Excellent with kids + other dogs.
60+ minutes daily including swimming if possible. High energy.
Medium-length flat coat with feathering — brush 2–3× weekly. Check ears weekly.
Generally hardy. Watch for: hip dysplasia, ear infections, epilepsy, glaucoma.
Full Welsh Springer Spaniel profile →Active families, multi-pet homes, owners who enjoy running.
Active families with garden, those wanting a slightly less full-on spaniel.
Get the breed-specific care guide + monthly food recall alerts in your inbox. We email about once a fortnight, never spam.
No thanks, I'll find my own way →
By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy. We never share your email.
