German Shepherd Dog vs Irish Setter
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
German Shepherd Dog: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Setter: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
German Shepherd Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Irish Setter: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
German Shepherd Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Irish Setter: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
German Shepherd Dog5/5
Irish Setter5/5
Good with Other Dogs
German Shepherd Dog3/5
Irish Setter5/5
Good with Strangers
German Shepherd Dog3/5
Irish Setter5/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
German Shepherd Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint abnormality
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
DM: Degenerative myelopathy
EPI: Digestive enzyme deficiency
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting
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
German Shepherd Dog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Loyal
Versatile
Protective
Trainable
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Can be overprotective
Health issues
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
German Shepherd Dog Fun Fact
German Shepherds have starred in numerous films and were among the first dogs trained as guide dogs for the blind.
Irish Setter Fun Fact
Their flowing red coat earned them the nickname 'Rolling Thunder' among Irish hunters in the 1800s.
Heritage & Purpose
German Shepherd Dog
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the late 1800s as a herding and working dog. Max von Stephanitz standardized the breed for military and police work, emphasizing utility and intelligence.
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
German Shepherd Dog
Regular brushing needed during heavy shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Hip and joint health monitoring essential throughout life.
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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