Australian Cattle Dog vs Irish Setter
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Cattle Dog: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Irish Setter: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Cattle Dog: May be Stubborn0.2
Irish Setter: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Cattle Dog: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Irish Setter: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Cattle Dog3/5
Irish Setter5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Cattle Dog3/5
Irish Setter5/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Cattle Dog3/5
Irish Setter5/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Cattle Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss risk
OCD: Obsessive behavioral patterns
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Eye Problems: Various ocular concerns
Irish Setter
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
PRA: Progressive eye disease
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
OCD: Joint cartilage issue
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Pros & Cons Comparison
Australian Cattle Dog
Pros
Extremely loyal and protective
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Great endurance
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Can be stubborn
May nip at heels
Needs constant mental stimulation
Can be territorial
Irish Setter
Pros
Affectionate and friendly
Athletic and energetic
Good with families
Beautiful appearance
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be stubborn
Not ideal for apartments
Australian Cattle Dog Fun Fact
These dogs often have a unique mask-like marking around their eyes, earning them the nickname 'masked merle.'
Irish Setter Fun Fact
Their flowing red coat earned them the nickname 'Rolling Thunder' among Irish hunters in the 1800s.
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Cattle Dog
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s for cattle herding in harsh outback conditions. These dogs were bred to manage livestock across vast distances with minimal supervision.
Irish Setter
Origin:
Developed in Ireland during the 1800s, these dogs excelled at hunting game birds across vast territories. Their distinctive red coat made them visible to hunters in field conditions.
Special Considerations
Australian Cattle Dog
Needs extensive exercise and mental stimulation daily. Regular brushing required during shedding seasons. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.
Irish Setter
Regular grooming needed for silky coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Watch for signs of hip problems and eye issues as they age.
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