Quick Answer:
Irish Setter grooming costs $60-$95 every 6-8 weeks. Their beautiful red coat requires regular brushing to maintain shine and prevent tangles in the feathering. Moderate shedding year-round.
Irish Setter Grooming Costs
Here's what to expect for professional Irish Setter grooming based on size and service type:
| Size | Weight | Basic Groom | Full Groom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Irish Setter | 60-70 lbs | $60-$75 | $75-$95 |
Annual grooming costs: $480-$760 (based on grooming every 6-8 weeks).
For comparison with other breeds, see our complete dog grooming cost guide.
Irish Setter Coat Type & Care
Irish Setters have a moderately long, flat, silky coat with feathering on ears, chest, tail, back of legs, and belly. The distinctive rich mahogany or chestnut red color is a breed hallmark.
| Coat Type | Long |
| Shedding | Moderate |
| Grooming Frequency | Every 6-8 weeks |
| Brushing | 2-3 times weekly |
| Grooming Difficulty | Medium |
Popular Irish Setter Haircuts
Here are the most popular grooming styles for Irish Setters:
Show Trim
Best for: Traditional setter appearance
Natural outline maintained with careful feathering preservation. Light tidying only.
Maintenance: High - daily brushing
Field/Working Trim
Best for: Active hunting dogs
Feathering shortened for easier care and less debris collection.
Maintenance: Medium - brush 2-3 times weekly
Pet Trim
Best for: Family pets
Moderate feathering with tidy outline. Balance of beauty and practicality.
Maintenance: Medium - regular brushing
Irish Setter Grooming Schedule
Follow this schedule to keep your Irish Setter looking and feeling their best:
- Professional grooming: Every 6-8 weeks
- Brushing: 2-3 times weekly
- Bathing: Every 4-6 weeks
- Nail trimming: Every 3-4 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Weekly
Puppy Grooming
Start grooming early. Puppy coat is softer and will transition to adult coat. Establish ear care routine.
Senior Dog Grooming
Older Irish Setters may need gentler handling. Watch for skin changes and lumps.
Find a Irish Setter-experienced groomer
Search our directory for professional groomers experienced with Irish Setters and similar breeds.
Find Groomers Near MeCommon Irish Setter Grooming Problems
Feathering Tangles
The long feathering on ears, chest, and legs tangles easily.
Prevention: Regular brushing with focus on feathered areas.
Ear Infections
Long, pendulous ears can trap moisture and debris.
Prevention: Weekly ear cleaning and keep ears dry.
Coat Dullness
Beautiful red coat can become dull without proper care.
Prevention: Quality diet, regular grooming, and appropriate products.
At-Home Irish Setter Grooming
Between professional grooms, here's what you need and how to maintain your Irish Setter's coat at home.
Essential Tools
- Pin brush
- Slicker brush
- Metal comb
- Ear cleaner
- Detangling spray
- Soft bristle brush for shine
Grooming Tips
- Brush feathering carefully to prevent breakage
- Use coat conditioner for shine
- Clean ears weekly
- Check between toes after outdoor activities
- Use gentle shampoo to maintain coat color
Finding a Irish Setter-Experienced Groomer
Not all groomers are equally experienced with every breed. Here's what to look for when choosing a groomer for your Irish Setter:
- Find groomers experienced with setter breeds
- Ask about their approach to feathering care
- Verify they understand show vs pet grooming
- Look for hand-stripping experience
For more tips, see our Signs of a Good Dog Groomer guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Irish Setter grooming cost?▼
$60-$95 per session depending on coat condition and style.
Do Irish Setters shed?▼
Yes, they shed moderately year-round.
How often should an Irish Setter be groomed?▼
Every 6-8 weeks professionally with regular brushing at home.
How do I keep my Irish Setter's coat shiny?▼
Regular brushing, quality diet, and appropriate grooming products.
Are Irish Setters hard to groom?▼
Moderately challenging due to feathering, but manageable with regular care.
Should Irish Setters be trimmed?▼
Minimal trimming to tidy outline; feathering is part of breed character.
The Bottom Line
Irish Setter grooming requires professional appointments every 6-8 weeks, with costs ranging based on size and service level. Regular at-home maintenance between appointments keeps your Irish Setter looking and feeling their best.
Find a groomer experienced with Irish Setters, establish a consistent grooming schedule, and maintain regular brushing at home. Your Irish Setter will thank you with a healthy, beautiful coat.
Related Breed Guides
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