Miniature American Shepherd vs Irish Setter
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Irish Setter: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Irish Setter: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Irish Setter: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Irish Setter5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Irish Setter5/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Irish Setter5/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
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
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Irish Setter Fun Fact
Their flowing red coat earned them the nickname 'Rolling Thunder' among Irish hunters in the 1800s.
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
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.