Cairn Terrier vs Irish Setter
Compare Cairn Terrier and Irish Setter side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Cairn Terrier
Irish Setter
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
28 – 31 cm
55 – 67 cm
Weight
7 – 8 kg
24 – 32 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 17 years
10 – 15 years
Child friendly
5/5
5/5
Energy level
3/5
4/5
Intelligence
3/5
4/5
Trainability
4/5
4/5
Health
4/5
5/5
Grooming needs
4/5
1/5
Shedding
1/5
3/5
Barking level
4/5
2/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
1/5
Sponsored Ad
Characteristics
Cairn Terrier
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Irish Setter
Great with kids
High energy
Super smart
Low grooming
Quiet
Easy to train
Large
Summary
About Cairn Terrier
Small, sturdy Scottish terrier bred to hunt among rocky cairns. Around 28–31 cm tall with a harsh, weatherproof double coat needing regular stripping and brushing. Bold, curious, affectionate, and vocal; enjoys daily walks, mental stimulation, and active family life. Generally hardy and long-lived.
About Irish Setter
Graceful Irish gundog with a mahogany red, feathered coat needing regular grooming. Medium‑large, athletic and high‑energy, it thrives on daily vigorous exercise and mental work. Affectionate, people‑oriented and playful, it’s good with families but needs consistent, positive training.
Similar breeds
View more










