How much does a Irish Red and White Setter puppy cost?
From reputable breeders, expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 for a Irish Red and White Setterpuppy in the US — with an average of about $2,250. Location, lineage, and breeder reputation push prices up or down.
Why Irish Red and White Setter puppies cost what they do
You're paying $1500 to $3000 for an Irish Red and White Setter puppy because you're not just buying a dog, you're covering the real cost of responsible breeding. This isn't a popular breed—ranked 146th by the AKC—so reputable breeders aren't churning out litters. Limited demand means fewer breeders, but the health testing required per litter is extensive and expensive. You’re paying for OFA-certified hips, genetic screening for PRA, von Willebrand disease, and CLAD, plus cardiac and eye exams. These tests alone can cost a breeder $500 or more per dog, and they’re mandatory if you’re doing it right. These setters also don’t always produce large litters, so the cost per puppy goes up. When you see a Red and White Setter puppy priced well below $1500, it’s a red flag—chances are none of that testing was done, and you could be on the hook for $5,000 in hip surgery or vision loss down the line. The price isn’t about luxury, it’s about risk reduction. You’re paying for a breeder who prioritized health clearances over profit, and that drastically lowers your odds of facing devastating vet bills or losing a dog too soon. Skip the tests, and you’re gambling. Pay too little, and you’ll likely pay more later.
What moves the price
Budget $3,300–$9,100 for year one
Over the 13-year average lifespan of a Irish Red and White Setter, including purchase, food, vet care, insurance, grooming, and supplies.
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