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Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog Comparison – Which dog is better Irish Red Setter or Bobtail?

"Find similarities and differences between Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog" Compare Irish Setter and Old English Sheepdog. Which is better: Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog?
 
 
 
Name Irish Setter Old English Sheepdog
OriginsIreland flagIreland England flagEngland
Group Gun Dog Pastoral / Herding Dogs
Popularity Rank7270
Reviews41
User Ratings

Other Names
What other names do they have?
Irish Red Setter
Red Setter
Bobtail
Breed Type
Which dog is purebred or crossbreed? Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog breed type comparison:
Purebred Purebred

Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog Size and Weight Comparison

Size
Which dog is bigger, Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog? Is the Irish Setter bigger than the Old English Sheepdog breed? Is an Irish Setter smaller than an Old English Sheepdog?
Large Large
Weight
Which is heavier, Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog? Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog weight comparison:
Male: 65-75 pounds (29-34 kg), Female: 55-65 pounds (25-29 kg) Male: from 65 pounds (29 kg), Female: from 60 pounds (27 kg)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
Male: 70 pounds (31.5 kg), Female: 60 pounds (27 kg) Male: from 65 pounds (29 kg), Female: from 60 pounds (27 kg)
Height
Which is taller, Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog? Is an Irish Setter taller than an Old English Sheepdog?
Male: 26-28 inches (66-71 cm), Female: 24-26 inches (61-66 cm) Male: 22-24 inches (56-61 cm), Female: 20-22 inches (51 cm)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
Male: 27 inches (68.5 cm), Female: 25 inches (63.5 cm) Male: 23 inches (58.5 cm), Female: 21 inches (51 cm)

Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog Price and Availability Comparison

Price
Which is cheaper, Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog? Which is more expensive? What is the difference in price between Irish Setter and Old English Sheepdog?
$800-$1000 $1200-$1500
Availability
Which is easier to get, Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog?
Very frequent: The Irish Setter is quite easy to get.
Very frequent: The Old English Sheepdog is quite easy to get.

Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligent Rank
Which dog has more intelligence? Is a Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog smarter? Which is best? Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog intelligence:
Smart: The Irish Setter dogs have great intelligence.
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Smart: The Old English Sheepdog dogs have great intelligence.
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Trainability
Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog trainability comparison. What's the difference between Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog?
Irish Setter dogs are very easy to train.
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Old English Sheepdog dogs are easy to train.
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Watchdog Ability
Which is the better watchdog: Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog?
Irish Setter dogs are average watchdogs.
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Old English Sheepdog dogs are good watchdogs.
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Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Which is a better guard dog Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog? Which dog is most likely to protect its owner? Which is the best dog to use for protection?
Irish Setter dogs are not the best to protect their territory.
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Old English Sheepdog dogs strongly protect their territory.
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Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog Personality and Temperament Comparison

Temperament
Which one has a better personality? Which is a better family dog, Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog? Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog behavior/temperament comparison:
Playful
Independent
Energetic
Intelligent
Affectionate
Lively
Companionable
Playful
Funny
Loving
Protective
Intelligent
Sociable
Adaptable
Bubbly
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog?
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds.
See more.
Sensitive: Old English Sheepdog dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.
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Affection Level
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog?
High: Irish Setter dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
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High: Old English Sheepdog dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
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Social Needs
Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog social needs comparison:
Irish Setter dogs need a lot of social interaction.
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Old English Sheepdog dogs need a lot of social interaction.
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Impulse to Wander or Roam
Which dog has a greater roaming instinct? What's the difference between Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog?
Irish Setter dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world.
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Old English Sheepdog dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
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Prey Drive
Which dog has a higher prey drive? What's the difference between Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog? Which can be better for hunting?
Irish Setter dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something.
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Old English Sheepdog dogs have low to an average impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals.
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Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Playfulness
Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog playfulness comparison:
The Irish Setter is a highly playful breed.
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The Old English Sheepdog is a playful breed.
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Barking
Which dog barks more/less: Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog?
Low: The Irish Setter barks none to minimal.
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Average: The Old English Sheepdog barks occasionally.
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Apartment Friendly
Which dog is more apartment friendly Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog?
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Irish Setter breed.
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Old English Sheepdog indoors.

Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Adaptability
Which dog has a higher adaptability potential? Which is the better dog?
Irish Setter dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Old English Sheepdog dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
Which dog can be left alone: Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog?
Irish Setter dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
Old English Sheepdog dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Force PSI
Which bite is stronger: Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Irish Setter bite force: Ordinary.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Old English Sheepdog bite force: Ordinary.
Biting Potential
Is an Irish Setter more dangerous than an Old English Sheepdog?

Low 🔽

The Irish Setter has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

The Old English Sheepdog has a low chance of biting somebody.
Mouthiness
Which is the better dog? Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog mouthiness comparison:
Irish Setter dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
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Old English Sheepdog dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
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Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog Health and Lifespan Comparison

Health Issues
Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog health comparison. Which is the healthier: Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog?
The Irish Setter is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
The Old English Sheepdog is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Health Problems
Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog health problems comparison:
Hip Dysplasia
Cancer
Hypothyroidism
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Bloat
Epilepsy
Osteochondrosis Dissecans
Panosteitis
Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy
Canine Leukocyte
Cataracts
Hip Dysplasia
Allergies
Deafness
Entropion
Diabetes
Heat Intolerance
Veterinarian Visits
Which one may need more or less veterinary visits: Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog?
Average
The Irish Setter should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Average
The Old English Sheepdog should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Life Expectancy
Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog lifespan comparison. How long do Irish Setter and Old English Sheepdog breeds live? Which one has a longer lifespan/life expectancy? What is the age limit of the Irish Setter and Old English Sheepdog?
12-14 years
The average lifespan of Irish Setter: 13 years
10-12 years
The average lifespan of Old English Sheepdog: 11 years
Weather and Climate
Which dog is best for hot or cold weather: Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog?
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Irish Setter can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.
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Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Old English Sheepdog can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.
See more.

Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Level
Who has more energy a Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog? Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog energy level comparison:
Irish Setter dogs are high-energy dogs.
Old English Sheepdog dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?
Irish Setter dogs need a lot of exercises.
Old English Sheepdog dogs have an average exercise need.
Sleeping Need
Which one sleeps the least/most: Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog?
Irish Setter dogs don't need too much sleep.
Old English Sheepdog dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping.

Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Average daily food consumption
Which dog eats more: Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog? Does the Irish Setter breed eat more than the Old English Sheepdog breed?
3 to 4 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. Recommended daily amount: 2.5 to 4.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
Which dog breed is more prone to obesity? Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog weight gain potential comparison:
Average: The Irish Setter has an average risk for obesity.
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Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Old English Sheepdog's weight, he can easily gain weight.
See more.

Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat/fur do they have? Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog coat comparison:
Fine Waterproof
Shaggy
Double
Colors
What are the original Irish Setter and Old English Sheepdog color? Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog color comparison:
Red
Mahogany
Gray
Blue
White
Grizzle
Merle
Grooming
Which dog is easy to maintain, Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog? Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog grooming comparison:
Advanced: The Irish Setter requires a lot of grooming.
See more.
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
See more.
Shedding Level
Who sheds more Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog? Do Irish Setter dogs shed more than Old English Sheepdog dogs?
Irish Setter dogs shed moderately.
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Old English Sheepdog dogs are heavy shedders.
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Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
Which dog should be bathed more: Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog?
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds.
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3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds.
See more.
Hypoallergenic
Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog hypoallergenic comparison. Which dog is hypoallergenic or not?
No See more. No See more.
Stinkiness
Which dog breed smells the least? Which dog smells the most? Which is best, Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog?

High 🔼

The Irish Setter has a high chance of bad smell.

Medium

The Old English Sheepdog has an average chance of bad smell.
Drooling Tendency
Which dog drools the most? Which dog drools the least? What's the difference between Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog?
The Irish Setter is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency.
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The Old English Sheepdog is a big drooler, so if you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, you should choose a dog from another breed.
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Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog Good With Comparison

Pet Friendly
Which dog breeds get along well with other animals/pets?
Irish Setter dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Old English Sheepdog dogs are usually friendly towards other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Which dog is more stranger friendly Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog? Which dog is more friendly?
Irish Setter dogs are very stranger-friendly dogs.
Old English Sheepdog dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Which dog is more child/kid friendly Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog?
Irish Setter dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
Old English Sheepdog dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
Which dog is more cat friendly Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog?
Irish Setter dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Old English Sheepdog dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Which dog is more dog friendly Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog? Can an Irish Setter and an Old English Sheepdog be friends? Do Irish Setter dogs get along with Old English Sheepdog dogs?
Irish Setter dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
Old English Sheepdog dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Which dog is best for first time owners: Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog?
Yes
Irish Setter dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Yes
Old English Sheepdog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Which one fits better in the office?
No
Irish Setter is not the best dog breed for office environment.
No
Old English Sheepdog is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Which dog is good for elderly people?
Irish Setters are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
Old English Sheepdogs are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog
Which one could be a service dog?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
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Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
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Therapy Dog
Which one could be a therapy dog: Irish Setter or Old English Sheepdog? Which is better for autism?

Yes

This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
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Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
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Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Which one could be a detection/sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.
Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Which one could be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.
Boat and Sailor Dog
Which one could be a boat dog: Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog?

Yes

Irish Setter breed usually likes being on a boat.
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Not really

Old English Sheepdog breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.
Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Which one could be a cart pulling or drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
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Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
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Fighting Dog / Military Dog

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog Reproducibility Comparison

Gestation Length 60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
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Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.
Litter Size
How many puppies can Irish Setter and Old English Sheepdog have? Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog litter size comparison:
7-10 puppies 5-8 puppies

Irish Setter vs Old English Sheepdog Recognition Comparison

AKC Group
Which dog is recognized by the AKC?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1878 as a Sporting breed. Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888 as a Herding breed.
FCI Group
Which dog is recognized by the FCI?
Recognized by FCI in the Pointing Dogs group, in the British and Irish Pointers and Setters section. Recognized by FCI in the Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs) group, in the Sheepdogs section.
Breed Recognition
What other organizations and kennel clubs recognize these dog breeds?
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
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

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