Australian Shepherd vs Irish Setter Cost Comparison 2026
Australian Shepherd costs $2,000/yr vs $2,060/yr for Irish Setter. Over a lifetime: $30,800 vs $27,170. Here's where the money goes.
Australian Shepherd
$30,800
lifetime (14 yrs)
Lifetime Difference
$3,630
Irish Setter costs less
Irish Setter
$27,170
lifetime (12 yrs)
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Australian Shepherd | Irish Setter | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $800–$2,500 | $800–$1,800 | Irish Setter |
| Annual Food | $540 | $600 | Australian Shepherd |
| Routine Vet Care | $500 | $480 | Irish Setter |
| Grooming | $120 | $180 | Australian Shepherd |
| Pet Insurance | $30–$58/mo | $28–$58/mo | Irish Setter |
| Supplies & Training | $420 | $400 | Irish Setter |
| Total Annual Cost | $2,000 | $2,060 | Australian Shepherd |
| Lifetime Cost | $30,800 | $27,170 | Irish Setter |
Australian Shepherd Cost Profile
- Size
- medium
- Lifespan
- 14 years
- Purchase Price
- $800–$2,500
- Annual Cost
- $2,000/yr
- Lifetime Total
- $30,800
Irish Setter Cost Profile
- Size
- large
- Lifespan
- 12 years
- Purchase Price
- $800–$1,800
- Annual Cost
- $2,060/yr
- Lifetime Total
- $27,170
Bottom Line
Annual costs are nearly identical — $60/yr difference. Your choice comes down to lifespan, grooming needs, and health risk, not ongoing budget impact.