Irish Setter Doodle: Temperament, Size, Coat & Care Guide
the Irish Setter Doodle: size range, coat types, temperament variability, health risks from both parent breeds, grooming needs, and 2026 pricing.
The Irish Setter Doodle: A Designer Cross With Real Variability
The Irish Setter Doodle — sometimes called the Irish Settodoodle or Irish Doodle — is a designer cross between the Irish Setter and the Poodle (usually Standard Poodle, though Miniature Poodle crosses exist). This mix has gained traction among families drawn to the Irish Setter's warmth and the Poodle's intelligence, but prospective owners should understand that mixed-breed dogs inherit traits unpredictably. No two Irish Setter Doodles from the same litter will necessarily look, behave, or shed the same way.
This guide breaks down what you can reasonably expect — and where surprises are likely — so you can decide whether this cross fits your household.
| Parent Breeds | Irish Setter × Poodle (Standard or Miniature) |
| Weight Range | 25–70 lb (11–32 kg) depending on Poodle parent size |
| Height Range | 15–27 in (38–69 cm) at shoulder |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years |
| Coat Types | Wavy, curly, or straight — variable shedding |
| Energy Level | High — 60–90 minutes of daily exercise |
| Price Range (2026) | $1,500–$3,500 from breeders |
Parent Breed Breakdown: Irish Setter Meets Poodle
Understanding the parent breeds is the single best way to predict what an Irish Setter Doodle might be like. Each parent contributes a distinct set of traits, and the resulting puppy can lean heavily toward either side.
| Trait | Irish Setter (AKC breed standard) | Standard Poodle (AKC breed standard) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 60–70 lb (27–32 kg) | 40–70 lb (18–32 kg) |
| Height | 25–27 in (64–69 cm) | Over 15 in (38+ cm), typically 22–27 in |
| Coat | Mahogany red, silky, moderate feathering | Dense, curly, many colors; low-shedding |
| Temperament | Outgoing, sweet, clownish, high-energy | Alert, intelligent, active, proud |
| Trainability | Eager but can be easily distracted | Highly trainable, quick learner |
| Exercise Needs | 60–90 min/day | 60+ min/day, benefits from mental work |
| Shedding | Moderate | Minimal |
| Key Health Risks | Hip dysplasia, PRA, bloat, epilepsy | Hip dysplasia, Addison's, bloat, sebaceous adenitis |
The AKC Irish Setter breed standard describes a "rollicking" personality with an outgoing disposition, while the AKC Standard Poodle standard emphasizes intelligence and trainability. An Irish Setter Doodle may inherit any blend of these characteristics.
Generations Explained: F1, F1B, F2, and Multigen Irish Setter Doodles
The generation designation tells you what proportion of each parent breed is in your dog's genetics. This matters for coat predictability and shedding.
- F1 (First Generation): 50% Irish Setter × 50% Poodle. Most variable in coat type and shedding. One parent is a purebred Irish Setter, the other a purebred Poodle.
- F1B (First Generation Backcross): 75% Poodle × 25% Irish Setter (or the reverse). An F1 Irish Setter Doodle bred back to a Poodle. More likely to have a curly, low-shedding coat. This is the most common generation marketed as "low-shedding."
- F1B Reverse: 75% Irish Setter × 25% Poodle. Less common. Will lean heavily toward Setter traits in coat and temperament.
- F2 (Second Generation): Two F1 Irish Setter Doodles bred together. Genetics are highly unpredictable — puppies in the same litter can vary dramatically in coat, size, and shedding.
- Multigen (F3+): Multiple generations of Irish Setter Doodle-to-Irish Setter Doodle breeding. Slightly more predictable if the breeder has been selecting for consistent traits over several generations, but still not guaranteed.
If low shedding is a priority for your household, an F1B backcross to a Poodle gives you the highest probability — but never a guarantee — of a low-shedding coat. F1 and F2 litters are essentially coin flips for coat type.
Size, Coat, and Appearance: What to Actually Expect
Because Poodles come in multiple sizes, the first question to ask any breeder is which Poodle variety was used. This single factor determines whether your dog will be a large or medium-sized companion.
| Poodle Parent Size | Expected Adult Weight | Expected Adult Height |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Poodle | 45–70 lb (20–32 kg) | 22–27 in (56–69 cm) |
| Miniature Poodle | 25–45 lb (11–20 kg) | 15–22 in (38–56 cm) |
| Medium/Klein Poodle | 35–50 lb (16–23 kg) | 18–22 in (46–56 cm) |
Even within a single litter, individual puppies can fall at different points within these ranges. Ask the breeder for the exact weight and height of both parents — this gives you the best projection.
Coat Type Possibilities
Irish Setter Doodles can inherit three general coat types:
- Curly (Poodle-dominant): Tight curls, minimal shedding, requires professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Most common in F1B puppies.
- Wavy (furnishing coat): Loose waves with moderate shedding. A middle-ground coat that many F1 puppies develop. Needs brushing 3–4 times per week and professional grooming every 8–10 weeks.
- Straight or slightly wavy (Setter-dominant): Flatter coat with feathering on ears, legs, and tail. Moderate to heavy shedding, especially seasonally. Less grooming-intensive but not suitable for allergy-sensitive households.
Coat colors typically include apricot, red, cream, parti-color (white with patches), and occasionally black or chocolate. The rich mahogany red of the Irish Setter often blends with Poodle colors to produce warm apricot or copper tones.
Temperament Range: Best-Case and Challenging Scenarios
Temperament is where individual variation matters most. Here is the realistic spectrum:
You get a dog that combines the Poodle's sharp trainability with the Irish Setter's joyful, people-oriented nature. The dog is eager to learn, responds well to positive reinforcement, greets visitors warmly, and settles calmly after adequate exercise. Good with children and other dogs when properly socialized during the critical 8–16 week window.
You get a dog that inherits the Irish Setter's distractibility and high energy without the Poodle's focus. The dog struggles with impulse control, jumps on people, barks when bored, and has difficulty settling indoors. May develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. Some individuals inherit the Setter's strong bird drive and will chase squirrels, cats, or joggers on leash.
Key Temperament Traits to Prepare For
- Energy level: Expect a high-energy dog. Plan for 60–90 minutes of structured exercise daily — walks, fetch, hiking, or dog sports like agility or rally obedience.
- Sociability: Most Irish Setter Doodles are people-oriented and do poorly as outdoor-only dogs. They need to live inside with their family.
- Trainability: Generally good, but sessions should be short (5–10 minutes) and varied to hold attention. Use high-value treats and keep training positive — force-free methods using treats, toys, and praise produce the best results.
- Vocalization: Moderate. Neither parent breed is excessively barky, but boredom or under-stimulation can trigger nuisance barking.
- Prey drive: Moderate to high. Both breeds have hunting backgrounds. Leash training and recall work should start early.
Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor Myth vs. Reality
One of the most persistent myths in the designer dog world is that crossbreeding automatically eliminates health problems through "hybrid vigor." The reality is more nuanced. While a mixed-breed dog may have a broader gene pool than a heavily line-bred purebred, it can still inherit any condition that affects either parent breed. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that inherited disorders are determined by specific gene combinations, not simply by whether a dog is purebred or mixed.
Conditions to Screen For (Ask the Breeder for OFA/CERF Results)
| Condition | Inherited From | Screening Test | Estimated Treatment Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hip Dysplasia | Both breeds | OFA or PennHIP radiograph | $1,500–$6,000 per hip (surgery) |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | Both breeds | CERF/OFA eye exam, DNA test | No cure; management only |
| Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat) | Both breeds (deep-chested) | No screening; preventive gastropexy available | $2,500–$7,000 (emergency surgery) |
| Addison's Disease | Poodle side | ACTH stimulation test | $80–$150/month (lifelong medication) |
| Sebaceous Adenitis | Poodle side | Skin biopsy | $200–$500 (diagnosis), ongoing management |
| Epilepsy | Irish Setter side | Neurological exam, diagnosis of exclusion | $50–$200/month (medication) |
| Otitis Externa (Ear Infections) | Both (floppy ears) | Veterinary exam | $100–$300 per episode |
A responsible breeder will provide health clearances for both parent dogs — not just one. Ask for OFA hip results, CERF eye certifications, and any available DNA panel results. If a breeder cannot produce these, walk away.
Irish Setter Doodles, like both parent breeds, are at risk for gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat). Call your emergency vet immediately if your dog shows: unproductive retching, a distended or hard abdomen, restlessness, drooling, or collapse after eating. Bloat is fatal within hours without surgical intervention. Ask your vet about prophylactic gastropexy at the time of spay/neuter — this procedure tacks the stomach to the abdominal wall and significantly reduces the risk of torsion.
Grooming Needs Based on Coat Type
Grooming requirements vary substantially depending on which coat type your Irish Setter Doodle inherits:
| Coat Type | Home Brushing | Professional Grooming | Annual Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curly (Poodle-type) | Daily to every other day with a slicker brush and metal comb | Every 6–8 weeks ($65–$120/session) | $520–$960/year |
| Wavy (mixed) | 3–4 times per week | Every 8–10 weeks ($55–$100/session) | $330–$600/year |
| Straight (Setter-type) | 2–3 times per week; more during shedding seasons | Optional; bath and tidy every 10–12 weeks ($40–$70/session) | $160–$350/year |
Regardless of coat type, plan for:
- Ear cleaning: Weekly. Both parent breeds have floppy, feathered ears that trap moisture and debris. Use a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner to prevent otitis externa.
- Nail trimming: Every 3–4 weeks, or when you hear clicking on hard floors.
- Dental care: Daily brushing with enzymatic dog toothpaste, or at minimum 3–4 times per week.
For curly-coated dogs, invest in a quality slicker brush (such as the Chris Christensen Big G or Big K series, $45–$65) and a stainless steel greyhound comb ($10–$15). Matting in curly coats can lead to painful skin infections if neglected.
Cost Breakdown: Purchase Price and Ongoing Expenses
Puppy Purchase Price (2026 Market)
| Source | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Reputable breeder (health-tested parents, F1 or F1B) | $1,800–$3,500 | Should provide OFA/CERF results, health guarantee, take-back clause |
| Backyard breeder / online marketplace | $800–$1,500 | Rarely health-tests parents; higher risk of inherited conditions |
| Rescue or rehoming | $200–$500 | Uncommon but possible through Doodle-specific rescues or general breed rescues |
First-Year Cost Estimate
- Puppy purchase: $1,800–$3,500
- Initial veterinary (vaccines, spay/neuter, microchip): $500–$1,200
- Supplies (crate, bed, leash, bowls, grooming tools): $300–$600
- Food (high-quality AAFCO-complete diet): $400–$800/year
- Grooming: $330–$960/year (depending on coat)
- Preventive medications (heartworm, flea/tick): $200–$450/year
- Pet insurance (recommended): $480–$840/year ($40–$70/month)
- Training (group classes or private): $150–$600
Realistic first-year total: $4,160–$8,950, depending on purchase price, coat type, and your location.
Adoption and Rescue Options
While Irish Setter Doodles are not common in shelters, Doodle-specific rescue organizations like IDOG Rescue and Doodle Rescue Collective occasionally take in mixed-breed dogs that include Setter crosses. Irish Setter rescue groups (such as those affiliated with the Irish Setter Club of America) also sometimes have mixed-breed dogs available. Adoption fees typically range from $200–$500 and often include initial veterinary care.
Is the Irish Setter Doodle Right for Your Household?
- You have an active lifestyle with time for 60–90 minutes of daily exercise
- You want a sociable, people-oriented family dog
- You have a fenced yard or access to outdoor spaces
- You can commit to regular grooming (or budget for professional grooming)
- You have prior dog experience, particularly with high-energy breeds
- Your family includes older children who understand how to interact with dogs respectfully
- You work long hours away from home (separation anxiety risk)
- You want a guaranteed low-shedding dog (even F1B is not guaranteed)
- You live in an apartment with strict noise or size restrictions
- You prefer a low-maintenance grooming routine
- This is your very first dog and you have limited time for training
- You need a predictable adult size or temperament for your living situation
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make up the Irish Setter Doodle?
The Irish Setter Doodle is a cross between the Irish Setter and the Poodle — most commonly the Standard Poodle, though Miniature Poodle crosses produce smaller dogs. The specific Poodle size used directly affects the adult size of the offspring.
How big will an Irish Setter Doodle get?
Adult size depends on the Poodle parent. Standard Poodle crosses typically reach 45–70 lb (20–32 kg) and 22–27 inches at the shoulder. Miniature Poodle crosses typically reach 25–45 lb (11–20 kg) and 15–22 inches. Individual puppies within the same litter can vary by 10–15 pounds.
What will the temperament be like?
Most Irish Setter Doodles are friendly, energetic, and intelligent. They tend to be social with people and other dogs when properly socialized. However, temperament is unpredictable in crosses — some lean toward the Setter's distractible, exuberant nature, while others inherit the Poodle's focus and composure. Early socialization (8–16 weeks) and consistent positive reinforcement training are essential regardless of which traits emerge.
Is the Irish Setter Doodle hypoallergenic or low-shedding?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic. Some Irish Setter Doodles — particularly F1B backcrosses to Poodles — are low-shedding and may be better tolerated by people with mild dog allergies. However, F1 and F2 generation puppies may shed moderately to heavily. If allergies are a concern, spend time with the specific puppy before committing, and understand that allergic reactions are triggered by dander and saliva proteins, not just hair.
What health issues might this mix inherit?
Irish Setter Doodles may inherit hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, bloat (GDV), epilepsy, Addison's disease, sebaceous adenitis, and ear infections — all conditions that affect one or both parent breeds. Responsible breeders screen parent dogs through OFA, PennHIP, and CERF testing to reduce (but not eliminate) the risk. Always consult your veterinarian about a screening and preventive care plan tailored to your individual dog.
How much does an Irish Setter Doodle cost?
In 2026, expect to pay $1,800–$3,500 for a puppy from a reputable breeder who health-tests both parent dogs. Backyard breeders and online sellers may offer puppies for $800–$1,500, but these rarely come with health clearances. Adoption through rescues costs $200–$500. First-year total ownership costs (including vet care, food, grooming, and supplies) typically range from $4,160–$8,950.
Do Irish Setter Doodles do well with children?
Generally yes — both parent breeds are known for being good with kids. However, the Irish Setter Doodle's high energy and potential size mean that interactions with young children should always be supervised. A 60-pound dog can accidentally knock over a toddler during play. Teach children to respect the dog's space, especially during eating and sleeping.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for health, nutrition, and behavioral guidance specific to your dog. For suspected poisonings, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (24/7, consultation fee applies).
Dr. Hannah Wickes
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
