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Irish Setter Dog

Irish Setter Cost Guide (2026)

Everything you need to know about how much it costs to buy and own a Irish Setter. Is a Irish Setter right for your budget?

A gorgeous, mahogany-coated sporting dog full of energy and charm. Irish Setters are outgoing, sweet-natured, and love being active. They mature slowly, staying puppy-like for years, and need plenty of exercise.

$800-$2,500
Purchase Price
$1,200-$2,200
Annual Cost
$24,600
Lifetime Cost
12-15 yrs
Life Expectancy
Large
Size
Moderate
Grooming Need

Annual Cost Breakdown

ExpenseAnnual CostMonthly
Food$480 - $780$40 - $65
Routine Vet Care$300 - $550$25 - $45
Emergency Vet Fund$300 - $600$25 - $50
Grooming$200 - $400$16 - $33
Pet Insurance$480 - $960$40 - $80
Supplies & Toys$150 - $350$12 - $29
Training$100 - $500$8 - $41
Total Annual$1,200 - $2,200$100 - $183

First Year vs. Ongoing Annual Cost

$2,300 - $5,200
First Year Total

Includes purchase price, initial supplies, first vet visits, spay/neuter, and vaccinations.

$1,200 - $2,200
Each Year After

Ongoing food, vet checkups, grooming, insurance, and supplies each year.

Quick Facts: Irish Setter

Breed TypeDog
GroupSporting
SizeLarge
Life Expectancy12-15 years
TemperamentOutgoing, Sweet-Natured, Active
Grooming NeedsModerate

Breed Ratings

Apartment Friendly
1/5Poor
Good with Kids
5/5Excellent
Shedding Level
3/5Average
Energy Level
5/5Excellent
Ease of Training
4/5Good
Barking Level
2/5Below Avg
Health Issues
2/5Below Avg
Grooming Needs
3/5Average

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Where to Get a Irish Setter

Buy from a Breeder

Expect to pay $800-$2,500 from a reputable breeder. Always ask for health clearances and visit the facility.

Adopt

Adoption fees are typically $50-$500 and often include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchipping. Check local shelters and breed-specific rescues.

Recommended Products & Services

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Chewy

Food, treats & supplies
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Petco

In-store & online shopping
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Lemonade Pet Insurance

From $40/mo

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Irish Setter cost to buy?
A Irish Setter puppy or kitten from a reputable breeder typically costs between $800 and $2,500. Adoption fees are usually $50-$500.
What is the annual cost of owning a Irish Setter?
The average annual cost of owning a Irish Setter is $1,200 to $2,200, including food, veterinary care, grooming, insurance, and supplies.
How much does Irish Setter food cost per month?
Monthly food costs for a Irish Setter range from $40 to $65, depending on the brand and dietary needs.
Is pet insurance worth it for a Irish Setter?
Pet insurance for a Irish Setter typically costs $40-$80/month. Given that emergency vet bills can exceed $3,000-$10,000, insurance is generally recommended.
What is the lifetime cost of a Irish Setter?
The estimated lifetime cost of owning a Irish Setter is approximately $24,600, based on an average lifespan of 13 years including purchase price, food, vet care, and all other expenses.

Similar Breeds to Consider

Golden RetrieverLabrador RetrieverGerman ShepherdRottweilerBoxerDoberman Pinscher

Irish Setter Cost by City

New York, NYLos Angeles, CAChicago, ILHouston, TXPhoenix, AZPhiladelphia, PASan Antonio, TXSan Diego, CADallas, TXSan Jose, CA