About the Irish Setter
Strikingly beautiful red-coated sporting breed known for their exuberant, clown-like personality and graceful movement in the field. Originally bred for bird hunting in Ireland. Slower to mature than most breeds.
Weight Range
60–70
lbs
Size
🐕 Large Breed
Activity
🏃 High Activity
Lifespan
12-15 years
Irish Setter Temperament & Personality
Swipe to explore personality traits →
Outgoing
Socially confident and enthusiastic about meeting new people and other animals.
Active
High energy and always on the move — needs plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Sweet-natured
Inherently kind and gentle — approaches the world with natural warmth and tenderness.
Lovable
Irresistibly endearing — has a natural talent for making everyone fall in love with them.
Mischievous
Playfully naughty with a clever mind — always finding creative trouble to get into.
Irish Setter Health & Dietary Needs
Common Health Considerations
Breed-Specific Nutritional Guidance
Active sporting breed with high energy requirements. Their beautiful red coat needs omega-3 and omega-6 support. Prone to bloat with deep chest. Slow to mature — may need puppy-appropriate nutrition longer.
Estimated Daily Calories for Irish Setters
Based on a typical 65 lb Irish Setter with high activity level:
1772
calories per day
* This is an estimate using the RER formula (70 × weight_kg^0.75 × activity multiplier). Use our calculator below for a precise recommendation based on your dog's exact weight, age, and condition.
Complete Irish Setter Feeding Guide
Expert Tips for Irish Setters
Feed 2–3 meals daily to prevent bloat. Irish Setters mature slowly and may need higher-calorie food until age 3. Coat needs nutritional support. No exercise around mealtimes.
Practical Feeding Guidelines
Meal Frequency
Feed 2 measured meals per day — morning and evening works best.
Portion Control
Always measure portions with a kitchen scale or measuring cup. Treats should not exceed 10% of daily calories.
Hydration
Ensure fresh water is always available. A Irish Setter needs approximately 33–65 oz of water daily.
Weight Monitoring
Weigh your Irish Setter monthly and adjust portions accordingly. Ideal body condition means you can feel (but not see) the ribs.
Get Your Irish Setter's Exact Calorie Needs
Our free calculator uses veterinarian-approved formulas to give you a personalized feeding recommendation based on your Irish Setter's exact weight, age, activity level, and body condition.
Calculate Now — It's Free