How expensive are Irish setters? Irish setters are known for their stunning red coat and playful demeanor. These pups are a top choice for families and individuals. Typically, the price of an Irish setter puppy will depend on a few factors.
In general, it will cost you $700–$1,200 for a pet-quality Irish setter puppy. A show-quality puppy that meets the breed standards and would be entered in competitions if desired will cost more. So why does these dog breed cost so much? In this article, we will examine the factors influencing their price. Read on to find out more!
Introducing Irish Setter
Irish setter puppies have been around for centuries, dating back to the 18th century in Ireland. They were originally bred as hunting dogs and retrievers and have since become some of the most adored breeds around. Let’s learn more about what makes Iris Setter puppies so special.
✅Gorgeous Coat
One of the most distinctive features of Irish Setter puppies is their beautiful mahogany-red coat, which is silky soft to the touch. It requires some maintenance, however – this breed needs regular grooming to keep its coat looking its best. Expect to spend some time and money on grooming, but it’s worth it! You’ll love how handsome and charming your puppy will look with a well-maintained coat.
✅High Energy
Irish Setters are known as one of the most energetic dog breeds. They love to run, play and explore and require plenty of daily exercises to keep them healthy and happy. If you’re active and enjoy hiking, jogging, or long walks, an Irish Setter puppy is the perfect companion. Keep them active, and they will be loyal and well-behaved pets.
✅Affectionate and Loyal
What does loyalty mean to you? For an Irish Setter puppy, it means being devoted to their family and remaining loyal no matter what. They are affectionate with their families but wary of strangers – so make sure you socialize with them from a young age. They crave human attention and love and are always eager to please their owners. Irish Setters will easily form a strong bond with their families due to their affectionate temperament. Their intuitive nature also helps them pick up on their owner’s moods and emotions, making them an excellent support system.
✅Great with Children and Other Pets
You might be hesitant to adopt a puppy if you have kids at home but trust me when I say that Irish Setters are some of the best family dogs you could ask for! They tend to be gentle and patient with children, making them ideal playmates. Plus, since this breed loves being around people, they get along great with other pets, too – as long as proper introductions are made.
These unique Irish Setter puppies’ personalities make them so special and popular.
Different Types of Irish Setters and Their Average Age Ranges
Before you adopt or buy an Irish Setter puppy, it’s essential to learn about the different types of this breed. There are three different types of Irish Setters you can choose from:
🐾The Original Irish Setter
As the name suggests, The Original Irish Setter is the purest form of Irish Setter that originated in Ireland in the 18th century. They tend to have more energy, be more active, and require more exercise than the other two types. The average Irish Setter lifespan is 8 to 10 years.
🐾The Red Setter
The Red Setter is another type of Irish Setter that is a popular breed among pet owners. These dogs have a lifespan of around 10-12 years and are prone to certain health problems like ear infections, cataracts, and joint problems.
🐾Irish Red and White Setter
The Irish Red and White Setter are a relatively new and less popular breed among pet owners. These dogs have the same characteristics and temperament as the Red Setter but with distinctive white markings on their coat. The average lifespan of Irish Red and White Setters is about 11-14 years, and they are prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia, ear infections, and allergies.
🐾The Field Irish Setter
Field Irish Setters are a smaller subspecies of the original breed, weighing around 50 pounds. They have shorter, wavy coats that require minimal grooming. They are incredibly athletic and have a lifespan of up to 12 years. Field Irish Setters are great pets for energetic owners as they need daily exercise and can be easily trained for hunting.
🐾The Show Irish Setter
The Show Irish Setter, or the Bench Irish Setter, is a breed specifically bred for shows and competitions. They have long, wavy coats that require frequent grooming. Show Irish Setters are friendly and devoted pets and have a lifespan of around 12 years.
🐾Working Irish Setter
Working Irish Setters are specifically bred for hunting purposes. These athletic, energetic, and intelligent dogs require daily exercise and plenty of mental stimulation. They have a lifespan of up to 14 years, and as the name suggests, they are perfect companions for hunters and other working professionals.
No matter which type of Irish Setter you get, rest assured that they will be a loving and loyal companion.
How Expensive Are Irish Setters?
So how expensive are Irish setters? Now that you know the different types available, you’re probably wondering how much these puppies cost. As mentioned above, an Irish Setter puppy can cost about $700–$1,200 from reputable Irish Setter breeders. Let’s look at the initial cost of owning an Irish Setter puppy:
💸Free Irish Setter
Who wouldn’t love a free Irish Setter? While it may sound like a great deal, you should be cautious. The truth is that “free” puppies might not be free. You see, even if the breeder does not charge you for the puppy, they may still have incurred expenses for the puppy’s vaccinations, food, and basic needs. Some breeders may even give puppies away for free because they have a health problem, which could lead to long-term health expenses for the new owner. Additionally, some “free” puppies may be coming from puppy mills or backyard breeders, so you might not have access to important information like health testing results or the puppy’s lineage.
💸Breeder ($700-$1200)
When you buy an Irish Setter puppy from a breeder, the price can range from $700 to $1200, depending on various factors. These factors can include the breeder’s location, the breeder’s or kennel’s reputation, the litter size, and the puppy’s pedigree. Breeders who are more experienced and have a good reputation often charge more. Before buying, it’s important to ensure that the breeder is reputable and responsible and uses ethical breeding practices. It may be a good idea to ask for referrals or check online reviews before deciding.
💸Adoption ($200+$300)
Adopting could be a good choice if you’re looking for a more affordable option. You may adopt an Irish Setter puppy from a shelter or rescue organization. While this option may not guarantee a purebred Irish Setter, it can be more affordable while still providing a loving home for a needy puppy. Irish Setter puppies for adoption fees vary based on the shelter or organization but typically range from $200 to $300. Additionally, the puppy may already be spayed or neutered, up to date on vaccinations, and come with supplies such as a bed or crate.
Older puppies or those with special needs may be priced lower, while younger and purebred puppies may be more expensive.
So, if you’re looking for a puppy, make sure to take into consideration all of the costs associated with owning an Irish Setter. We will further discuss the factor that determines cost in the next section.
Factors Affecting The Cost Of Irish Setter Puppies
There are a variety of factors that can affect the cost of an Irish Setter puppy. These include:
1: Mixed or Purebred
One primary factor determining the cost of Irish Setter puppies is whether they are purebred or mixed-breed. Purebred Irish Setter puppies are expensive because their bloodlines are traceable, meaning there’s a high chance they will grow to have their breed’s physical and personality traits. While mixed-breed Irish Setters are less costly, they might not have their parent breeds’ physical and personality traits.
2: Bloodline
The bloodline of an Irish Setter puppy can influence its price. An Irish Setter with an impressive lineage will likely have a higher price than one with no known family history. The lineage of an Irish Setter puppy also determines its availability, as some bloodlines are more popular than others, and breeders might charge more for those puppies.
3: Breeder’s Reputation
A breeder’s reputation is another factor determining Irish Setter puppies’ price. Reputable breeders invest time, effort, and resources into breeding high-quality Irish Setters. As a result, their puppies will likely cost more than those from less reputable breeders. Reputable breeders provide excellent care for their puppies, ensure they are healthy, and socialize them appropriately.
4: Pedigree/Papers
Irish Setter puppies with papers that prove their lineage, ancestry, and health screening will likely cost more than those without papers. Papers demonstrate that the puppy is a purebred and that the breeder followed an ethical breeding process. Moreover, papers show the puppy’s health history, which is vital for anyone looking to buy an Irish Setter puppy, especially those prone to medical conditions.
5: Health Screening
Health screening is a critical factor influencing Irish Setter puppies’ price. Responsible breeders carry out several health screenings on their puppies to ensure they don’t pass genetic diseases onto their offspring. Health screening is expensive, and breeders that invest in it will add the cost to the puppy’s price. However, buying an Irish Setter puppy that has undergone health screening assures the new owner that they won’t have to spend a fortune on medical bills in the future.
6: Medical Expenses
When you bring your Irish Setter puppy home, taking care of its health needs is essential. This includes vaccinations, deworming, flea, tick prevention, and other medical expenses that come with a broad spectrum of care. The cost of veterinary care can vary based on location and selected services. Generally speaking, routine care expenses add an average of $500 to the overall expense of puppies.
7: Training
Irish Setters have the reputation of being an intelligent and responsive breed, but proper training is essential for well-behaved dogs. Puppies need socialization and obedience training, which always comes with a price. Enrolling your Irish Setter pup in obedience classes or having a skilled trainer visit your home can run from $500 to $1500, based on service providers.
8: Location
Like real estate, the cost of a puppy can be greatly affected by location. The demand for a particular breed can vary based on location, influencing the overall cost to spike. City dwellers may expect to pay premium prices instead of suburban or rural areas.
9: Age
The puppy’s age can affect its overall cost, and each scenario has advantages and disadvantages. An Irish Setter puppy less than 8 weeks old may be less expensive upfront but require special care that will ultimately cost more. On the other hand, adopting an older puppy with previous training under its belt may require less expensive over time.
10: Coat Markings
Irish Setters have striking coats that come in varying colors and patterns, adding to the overall cost of the pup. The most common coat colors will cost less than those exhibiting unique pattern traits. Coat colors that may raise the price include red, mahogany, and combinations of both colors.
With the cost of this beautiful breed in mind, you’ll be better placed to budget and financially prepare for your furry friend.
Additional Costs Associated with Irish Setters
In addition to the mentioned costs, owning an Irish Setter comes with additional expenses. These include:
📌Food
Irish Setters can eat a lot of food, especially if they are active or growing puppies. The cost of food can add up quickly, so it’s essential to be mindful of your budget. High-quality dog food can cost more upfront, but it will help keep your dog healthy and prevent future health problems that could be more costly. To save money, consider buying food in bulk or using coupons.
📌Grooming
Irish Setters have long, silky coats that require regular grooming to stay healthy and beautiful. It includes frequent brushing, bathing, and trimming. Professional Irish Setter grooming can be costly if you don’t have the time or skills to do it yourself. It’s important to factor in the grooming costs when considering getting an Irish Setter. To save money, consider learning how to groom your dog yourself or finding a local groomer that offers lower rates.
📌Vet Visits and Medication
Like all pets, Irish Setters require regular check-ups and medical care. This includes vaccinations, preventative care, and emergency visits. Additionally, some Irish Setters may require ongoing medication to manage health conditions such as allergies or arthritis. Having a budget set aside for vet visits and medication is vital to ensure your dog stays healthy. To save money, consider finding a vet that offers discounts or payment plans or buying medicine online.
📌Environment Maintenance
Irish Setters are active dogs that require plenty of exercises and mental stimulation. This means you’ll need to invest in creating a safe and secure environment for your dog to play, run, and explore. It may include a fenced yard or dog park membership. You’ll also need to invest in supplies such as leashes, collars, and toys. It’s important to factor in these costs when considering getting an Irish Setter. To save money, consider purchasing supplies second-hand or DIYing some of your own.
📌Pet Insurance
Pet insurance can help offset the cost of unexpected medical emergencies for your Irish Setter. While it may seem like an additional expense, it can save you money in the long run. It’s important to research and choose a policy that fits your budget and provides adequate coverage for your dog. To save money, consider choosing a higher deductible or shopping around for the best rates.
📌Supplies
Irish Setters require a lot of supplies to keep them happy and healthy. This includes food bowls, beds, crates, and grooming supplies. The cost of these supplies can add up quickly, so it’s essential to create a budget and stick to it. To save money, consider purchasing supplies in bulk or taking advantage of sales and discounts.
Overall, owning an Irish Setter is a big commitment financially. It’s important to research and budget to provide your pup with the best care possible.
Potential Health Problems Associated with Irish Setters
Irish Setters can suffer from a variety of health problems. This is why it’s essential to research and purchase your pup from a reputable breeder. Since the costs of treating and managing health problems can be expensive. Common health conditions include:
❕Otitis Externa
Irish Setters, like most dogs, are prone to ear infections. Otitis Externa is an outer ear infection caused by various factors such as allergies, bacteria, yeast, and parasites. Symptoms of this condition include excessive scratching of the ear, head shaking, and discharge from the ear. Left untreated can cause hearing loss, facial paralysis, and even death. The treatment involves cleaning the ear and administering antibiotics, antifungal, or anti-inflammatory medications. This can cost pet owners a lot of money, especially if the infection is recurrent.
❕Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can cause seizures in dogs. It is one of the common health problems in Irish Setters. The cause of epilepsy is unknown, but it is sometimes believed to be inherited. Seizures can range from mild to severe and may be triggered by stress, excitement, or lack of sleep. Epilepsy in dogs can be controlled but not cured. Treatment involves administering anticonvulsant medications such as phenobarbital or potassium bromide. These medications can be expensive, and your pet may need them for the rest of its life.
❕Cancer
Cancer is one of the most feared health problems that dogs may face. Unfortunately, Irish Setters are prone to developing various types of cancer, such as lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and osteosarcoma. The signs of cancer in dogs are often vague and nonspecific, such as lethargy, weight loss, and loss of appetite. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, depending on the type of cancer. The cost of cancer treatment can be staggering and may not guarantee a cure.
❕Megaesophagus
Megaesophagus is a condition in which the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach, becomes enlarged and unable to move food down into the stomach. Irish Setters are one of the breeds that are prone to this condition. Symptoms of this condition include regurgitation of food, weight loss, and aspiration pneumonia. Treatment involves feeding the dog in an upright position to help the food pass through the esophagus. In severe cases, surgery may be required, which can cost a lot of money.
❕Allergies
An Irish Setter dog is prone to allergies, especially food allergies and environmental allergies. The symptoms of allergies include scratching, licking, and biting at the skin, hair loss, and ear infections. Treatment often involves identifying the allergen and eliminating the source. This can be time-consuming and expensive. In severe cases, it may require medication such as antihistamines or corticosteroids.
❕Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia
(IMHA) is a condition where the immune system of the body attacks and damages red blood cells. This condition is more common in certain breeds, including Irish Setters. Symptoms of this condition include lethargy, loss of appetite, pale gums, and yellowing of the skin and eyes. Treatment may involve blood transfusions, immunosuppressive drugs, and supportive care. Treating IMHA can be extremely expensive and requires close monitoring by the veterinarian.
These are just a few health problems that Irish Setters may face. Pet owners must be aware of the potential health risks and have regular check-ups with their veterinarian to ensure early diagnosis and prompt treatment.
Care Tips for Irish Setter Puppies
Raising a puppy requires a lot of time, patience, and effort. In order to ensure that your Irish Setter puppy thrives, here are five essential care tips that will help you along the way.
1: Make Sure to Provide Adequate Exercise
Irish Setters are an active breed that requires ample exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Make sure you have a secure outdoor space for your puppy to run around, or plan for long walks and playtime sessions every day. Try to keep your puppy’s activities varied by introducing new toys or games to keep them stimulated.
2: Stick to a Strict Feeding Schedule
In order to maintain a healthy weight, Irish Setter puppies require a balanced diet and a regular feeding schedule. Ask your vet to recommend a high-quality puppy food that meets your puppy’s developmental needs. Feed your puppy three to four smaller meals daily, rather than leaving food out all day for them to graze on.
3: Invest in Proper Grooming Supplies
While Irish Setters are considered low-shedding dogs, they still require regular grooming to keep their beautiful coats looking their best. Invest in the proper supplies, including a high-quality brush and comb and a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner. Start regular grooming sessions early so your puppy becomes comfortable with the process and enjoys the attention.
4: Socialize Your Puppy Early
Irish Setter puppies are incredibly social dogs that crave attention and affection from humans and other dogs. As mentioned, early socialization is critical to promote proper behavior and prevent aggression or fear toward other animals or humans. Make sure your puppy has ample opportunity to interact with other dogs of all sizes and Irish setter temperaments and expose them to new stimuli, such as different environments and sounds, regularly.
5: Enroll Your Puppy in Obedience Training
Because of their energetic disposition, Irish Setters can be stubborn and difficult to train. Early obedience training is essential to ensure your puppy learns basic commands and how to behave appropriately. You can enroll in a local puppy class or work with a professional dog trainer to build a structured training plan tailored to your puppy’s needs.
Remember to put in the time and effort to provide your puppy with the attention, exercise, training, and care they require.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Irish Setters aggressive?
Irish Setters are known for being friendly, energetic, and affectionate dogs. They were originally bred as hunting companions, meaning they have a high prey drive but are not aggressive. However, just like any dog, it is important to properly socialize and train your Irish Setter to ensure they are well-behaved around other people and animals.
How long can Irish Setter live?
The average lifespan of an Irish Setter is between 12-15 years. However, some health conditions, such as cancer, hip dysplasia, and bloat, may shorten their lifespan. In order to ensure that your Irish Setter lives a long and healthy life, it is crucial to keep up with regular visits with your veterinarian, maintain a healthy diet, and provide regular exercise.
How long can Irish Setters be left alone?
Irish Setters are social dogs, meaning they do not do well when left alone for long periods. They thrive when they have human interaction and can become anxious or destructive if left alone. It is recommended that Irish Setters are supervised for at most 4 hours at a time. If you work long hours, planning to provide your Irish Setter with companionship and exercise is important.
Do Irish Setters eat a lot?
Irish Setters are a large breed, which means they require a lot of food to maintain their energy levels. However, it is crucial to monitor their food intake to prevent obesity. A healthy diet for an Irish Setter should consist of high-quality protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. The amount of food your Irish Setter needs will depend on their age, weight, and activity level.
What are Irish Setters known for?
Irish Setters are known for their stunning mahogany coat, which is soft and silky to the touch. They are also known for their friendly and energetic personalities, which makes them great family pets. With their athletic abilities, Irish Setters require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They are also great companions for hunting and outdoor activities.
Final Words
Of course, adopting an Irish Setter puppy is a serious commitment that requires careful consideration beyond how expensive are Irish setters. While the price tag may seem steep, the joy and love a furry companion can bring into your life are priceless.
As someone who has grown up around dogs and experienced firsthand the unconditional love they can provide, I can attest that the investment is well worth it. So, whether you’re looking for a new adventure partner or a cuddle buddy, an Irish setter puppy could be the perfect addition to your family
