vs
Click on the breeds above to change the breed you want to compare.
Compare Australian Shepherd and Irish Setter side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.
Breed traits
Character & behavior
Energy level
Playfulness
Intelligence
Trainability
Protectiveness
Sociability
Can stay alone
Lifestyle fit
Apartment-friendly
No
No
Good with kids
Yes
Yes
Good for first-time owners
No
Yes
Shedding
Noise level
Exercise needs
Physical & general
Life span
12–15 years
12–15 years
Weight
16–32 kg
25–32 kg
Height
46–58 cm
61–69 cm
Origin
United States
Ireland
Grooming effort
Nutrition sensitivity
Health risk
Heat tolerance
Cold tolerance
The Australian Shepherd and Irish Setter are both energetic and intelligent breeds, making them great companions for active families. The Australian Shepherd, originating from the United States, is known for its herding abilities and strong work ethic, while the Irish Setter, hailing from Ireland, is celebrated for its playful nature and sociability. Both breeds have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years and are good with kids. However, their differences in trainability, protectiveness, and sociability may influence a potential owner's choice. The Australian Shepherd is highly trainable and protective, making it a good choice for experienced owners, whereas the Irish Setter is more sociable and better suited for first-time owners. Both breeds require significant exercise and grooming, but their adaptability to different living situations varies.
Australian Shepherd — Advantages
Highly trainable
Good for active lifestyles
Intelligent and eager to learn
Moderate shedding level
Protective instincts
Good for active lifestyles
Intelligent and eager to learn
Moderate shedding level
Protective instincts
Disadvantages
Not ideal for first-time owners
Requires a lot of exercise
Can be noisy at times
Not apartment-friendly
Moderate sociability
Requires a lot of exercise
Can be noisy at times
Not apartment-friendly
Moderate sociability
Irish Setter — Advantages
Great for first-time owners
Very sociable and friendly
Playful and energetic
Good with kids
Moderate shedding level
Very sociable and friendly
Playful and energetic
Good with kids
Moderate shedding level
Disadvantages
Less protective than Australian Shepherd
Requires a lot of exercise
Not apartment-friendly
Lower trainability compared to Australian Shepherd
Less tolerant to cold climates
Requires a lot of exercise
Not apartment-friendly
Lower trainability compared to Australian Shepherd
Less tolerant to cold climates
Frequently Asked Questions
Which breed is better for families with children?
Both breeds are good with kids, but the Irish Setter is particularly known for its sociability.
Are these breeds suitable for first-time dog owners?
The Irish Setter is more suitable for first-time owners compared to the Australian Shepherd.
How much exercise do these breeds need?
Both breeds require a significant amount of exercise, but they thrive in active environments.
Do these breeds shed a lot?
Both breeds have a moderate shedding level.
Can these breeds adapt to apartment living?
Neither breed is considered apartment-friendly due to their energy levels and exercise needs.
free Australian Shepherd adoption listings
Sweet Australia shepherd puppies available
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
6 views
Pretty Australia shepherd puppies for adoption
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
6 views
Awesome Australia shepherd puppies available
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
6 views
Australia shepherd puppies for adoption
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
7 views
Male and Female Australia shepherd puppies for Rehoming
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
7 views
Male and Female Australia shepherd puppies for Rehoming
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
7 views
free Irish Setter adoption listings
not compatible with my current routine
Male
Not Educated
Free Adoption
769 views
Irish setter, lots of energy
Male
Not Educated
Free Adoption
609 views
Adopting an energetic Irish Setter
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
1061 views