Are you planning to get a new furry friend and can’t decide between an Irish Setter vs. Golden Retriever? Both breeds are popular choices for families and individuals alike, but there are some important differences to consider before making your final decision. These dog breeds might have similarities in their overall appearance and personality, but they have some fundamental differences that you should be aware of. So, to help you decide, here is a comparative guide to Irish Setter vs. Golden Retriever.
Irish Setter vs. Golden Retriever Breed Overview
An Irish Setter and Golden Retriever are members of the Gundog group. Both breeds were originally bred for hunting purposes and share many similar physical traits, such as a thick fur coat that protects them from cold weather conditions. Irish Setters originate from Ireland, while the Golden Retriever hails from Scotland. Are these dogs mixed breed? Both are purebred dogs that the American Kennel Club recognizes.
Golden Retrievers are the epitome of devotion and loyalty, whereas Irish Setters are normally larger and last 1 to 2 years older. Irish Setters need more grooming and exercise, but Golden Retrievers need greater socialization to avoid depression and anxiety.
Thus, these dog breeds have individual personalities. Knowing a dog’s parents might help you better understand if these dogs would be a possible partner since many puppies inherit their parents’ characteristics.
So to help you make your final decision, let’s take a more in-depth look at the key differences between an Irish Setter vs. Golden Retriever.
Irish Setter vs. Golden Retriever: Key Differences
These breeds have several key differences, and we’ll go through common qualities for every breed to help you make your choice. We’ll compare how they compare favorably on several essential aspects, including:
- Appearance
- Coat and Grooming
- Energy levels
- Trainability
- Friendliness with kids and other animals
- Sensitivity Level
- Prey Drive
- Potential Health Concerns
▶Breed AppearanceÂ
The most noticeable difference between these two breeds is their appearance, which is usually the first thing people notice. Irish Setters have a distinctive reddish fur coat, while Golden Retrievers have a golden-hued coat. The typical weight of a golden retriever is between 55 to 75 pounds, whereas an Irish Setter’s average weight is 50 to 70 pounds, depending on gender. Male Irish Setters are usually taller than their Golden Retriever counterparts, with heights ranging from 24 to 28 inches. Females of both breeds are typically smaller, with a height of 22 to 26 inches.
Although recognizing the physical distinctions between an Irish Setter vs. golden retriever might take some time, there are a few aspects you can identify straight away. Golden retrievers, for example, stick to their namesake’s color of red, cream, and yellow, whereas Irish Setters are known for their chestnut red or mahogany coats. Moreover, Irish Setters tend to be leaner and have longer legs compared to Golden Retrievers. When it comes to their ears, both breeds’ have floppy ears, but the Golden Retriever is set lower on their head.
▶Coat and Grooming
When it comes to their coat, both breeds have a thick undercoat that helps protect them from cold weather conditions. The Golden Retriever’s outer coat is water-resistant, while an Irish Setter’s coat is not as dense. These dogs shed moderately throughout the year but go through a heavier shedding period twice a year.
Brushing your dog’s coat regularly is essential to prevent mats and tangles from forming. Golden Retrievers require more grooming than the Irish Setter because of their water-resistant coat. You should brush your Golden Retriever’s coat at least three times weekly to remove any dead hair and dirt. The Irish Setter only needs to be brushed once a week.
Bathing these dogs should be done only when necessary because it can strip away the natural oils in their coat that protect them from the elements. Over-bathing can also lead to skin problems such as dryness and irritation.
Regarding grooming, the Golden Retriever is a high-maintenance breed, and the Irish Setter is considered a low-maintenance breed.
▶Energy Levels
These breeds have different energy levels, which you should consider if you’re looking for a laid-back or active dog. Irish Setters tend to have more energy levels than Golden Retrievers. They need daily exercise to stay healthy and fit, while Golden Retrievers are content with a couple of daily walks.
Irish Setter’s running speed is 28 mph, and they can run for miles without getting tired. While Golden Retrievers only have a running speed of 25 mph, they still need regular exercise to stay in shape. So in this aspect, the Irish Setter is a better choice if you’re looking for an active dog.
▶Trainability
Regarding trainability, the Irish Setter and a Golden Retriever are intelligent breeds that are easier to train. However, the Golden Retriever is more eager to please its owner and is more food-motivated than the Irish Setter.
The Irish Setter is a headstrong breed that can be stubborn sometimes, but they are still trainable. When being trained, these breeds of obedience are at the same level, but a Golden Retriever is easier to potty train.
Both breeds are intelligent and can be trained to do tricks with proper guidance and patience.
▶Child-friendliness
These breeds are both good with children and make excellent family pets. They’re loving, gentle, and patient dogs that enjoy being around people. The Irish Setter is a high-energy breed that loves to play, whereas a Golden Retriever is a laid-back breed that enjoys cuddling.
Due to their friendly nature, both breeds get along well with other dogs and animals. Proper socialization is essential to prevent any aggression or shyness around other animals.
▶Sensitivity Level
The emotional capacity of Golden Retrievers is normal, and they are not the particularly sensitive Irish Setters; on the other hand, they are a somewhat more sensitive breed. The Irish Setter is a more sensitive breed that is emotionally in tune with its owner. These dogs require plenty of attention and can become anxious or stressed if left alone for long periods. A Golden Retriever is a less sensitive breed that can be left alone for long periods of time without feeling anxious or stressed.
▶Prey Drive
The prey drive is the innate desire of a predatory animal to pursue and capture its prey. Irish Setters possess a stronger desire to pursue and capture prey. Golden Retrievers exhibit a moderate prey drive, meaning they may not have the urge to pursue after and capture a cat or even other small types of animal; however, it is still possible.
Both breeds can be trained not to exhibit this behavior. A little obedience training can go a long way for either breed.
▶Barking Tendencies
The Irish Setter is more likely to bark than a Golden Retriever. The Golden Retriever is less likely to bark than the Irish Setter, but they will still alert their owners when someone is approaching the house or if they sense something is wrong.
These breeds can be trained not to bark excessively. With proper training, both breeds can learn when it is appropriate to bark and when it is not.
▶Potential Health RiskÂ
Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is a relatively healthy breed with a long life expectancy. However, they tend to be prone to certain health conditions such as:
🐾Bloat
It is a condition that causes the stomach to fill with gas and twist. It is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
🐾PRA or Progressive Retinal Atrophy
This health condition causes the retina to deteriorate, eventually leading to blindness. Symptoms usually don’t appear until the dog is four and seven years old.
🐾Hip Dysplasia
It is a common health condition in large breeds of dogs. The dislocation of the hip joint causes it.
🐾Panosteitis
It is a condition that causes inflammation in the long bones of young dogs. It usually goes away on its own as the dog ages, but it can cause pain and lameness.
🐾Osteochondrosis Dissecans
It is a condition that affects the cartilage in the joints. It can cause pain and lameness, and sometimes surgery is required to fix it.
These are just some health conditions that an Irish Setter may be prone to.
Golden Retrievers
As for Golden Retrievers, they are typically among the healthiest dog; however, just like Irish Setters, they are also susceptible to certain health conditions such as:
🐾Cancer
One in four Golden Retrievers will develop cancer at some point in their lifetime. The most common type of cancer for this breed is lymphoma.
🐾Allergies
Golden Retrievers are prone to skin allergies, which can cause itching and scratching. They may also be allergic to certain foods or environmental allergens.
🐾Cataracts
A common eye condition causes the eyes’ lenses to become cloudy. It usually happens as the dog gets older, but it can happen at any age.
🐾Elbow Dysplasia
This is a condition that affects the elbow joint. It can cause pain and lameness, and sometimes surgery is required to fix it.
🐾Osteosarcoma
This type of bone cancer is most common in large breeds of dogs. It is aggressive and difficult to treat.
While these are some health conditions that a Golden Retriever may be prone to, it’s important to remember that not all Golden Retrievers will develop these conditions.
▶Weather and Climate
The Irish Setter prefers warm temperatures to cooler weather. These dog breeds adapt well to cold conditions and may even be excellent mountain dog breeds. On the other hand, a Golden Retriever can withstand both hot and cold conditions. Dogs with a thick layer of fur are more likely to endure warm/cold temperatures.
▶Better Family Dog
When it comes to being a better family dog, a Golden Retriever is the clear winner. They are gentle, loving, and patient dogs that love being around people. They are also great with children. The Irish Setter may not be as patient as a Golden Retriever and might not do well with small children in the home.
▶Good For First-Time Pet Owners
Golden Retriever, as per temperament, is calmer and more patient, thus making them a better choice for first-time pet owners. They are also easier to train than the Irish Setter. While Irish Setter dogs are also trainable, their high energy levels and need for exercise might make them too much for a first-time pet owner to handle.
▶Behavior Problems
Behavior problems are common in both breeds. Some behavior problems you might encounter with these breeds include:
- Digging
- Demanding attention
- Demand barking
- Destructive chewing
- Pulling on the leash
- Jumping on people
These behaviors can be frustrating, but most dogs can learn to overcome them with patience and training.
▶Living Environment
The Irish Setter is a high-energy dog that needs plenty of exercise. They do best in a home with a large yard where they can run and play. A Golden Retriever is also a high-energy dog but is not as active as the Irish Setter. So they can be suitable in an apartment, condo, or indoor living environment.
So if you have limited space in your house or apartment, then a Golden Retriever is better.
▶Price
When it comes to price, a Golden Retriever is usually more expensive than the Irish Setter as per reputable breeder. Golden Retrievers are a popular breed, and there is more demand for them. A Golden Retriever may cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000, while an Irish Setter can cost anywhere from $800 to $5,000 for both puppies; considering its coat, age, lineage, and other factors. Therefore it’s reasonable to presume these breeds are priced similarly to a household pet and make sure to get them from reputable breeders.
How to Choose The Right Dog Breed
When choosing between an Irish Setter vs. Golden Retriever, there are some things you should consider. There seems to be no wrong or right method for picking the best dog breed for you and your family. It all boils down to what you are looking for in a pet. So here are some tips that might help you make your decision:
✔️Think About the Most Important QualitiesÂ
What qualities are you looking for in a dog? Do you want a calm and relaxed or active and playful dog? Do you have small children in the house, or are you looking for guard dogs? Do you want a hypoallergenic breed, or are you okay with shedding? Once you know what qualities are most important to you, it will be easier to narrow down your choices.
If you want a dog breed that is:
- Calm and relaxed: Golden Retriever
- Active and playful: Irish Setter
- Good with children: Golden Retriever
- Hypoallergenic: Golden Retriever or Irish Setter
- A watchdog: Irish Setter
- Ease of training: Golden Retriever
✔️Consider the Living EnvironmentÂ
Do you live in an apartment or house? Do you have a large yard or no yard at all? How much time are you willing to spend exercising your dog each day? Answering these questions will help you decide if an active breed like the Irish Setter is right for you or if a more laid-back breed like Golden Retrievers would be better.
If you live in an:Â
- Apartment: Golden Retriever
- House: Irish Setter or Golden Retriever
- No yard: Golden Retriever
How much time are you willing to spend exercising your dog each day?Â
- 30 minutes: Golden Retriever
- 60 minutes: Irish Setter
✔️Think About Your LifestyleÂ
Do you travel often, or are you home most of the time? Or do you have a busy lifestyle or a more laid-back lifestyle? Do you like to hike, run, or play sports? Consider your lifestyle when choosing between an Irish Setter vs. Golden Retriever.
If you:Â
- Travel often: Golden Retriever
- Are home most of the time: Irish Setter or Golden Retriever
- Have a busy lifestyle: Golden Retriever
- Like to hike, run, or play sports: Irish Setter
✔️AllergiesÂ
If you or someone in your family has allergies, you may want to choose a hypoallergenic breed. Both Golden Retrievers and the Irish Setter are hypoallergenic breeds.
So when it comes to choosing between an Irish Setter vs. Golden Retriever. It all depends on your lifestyle, living environment, and what qualities you are looking for in a dog.
Tips on How to Become a Good Pet Parent
Have you already decided which dog breed is right for you? Is it Irish Setter or Golden Retriever? If you are still not sure, that is okay too. The most important thing is that you research to determine whether Irish Setter vs. Golden Retriever will fit well into your lifestyle.
Once you have decided on a breed, the next step is to become a good pet parent. Here are some tips on how to do that:
🔴Take Responsibility
 Being a pet parent is a big responsibility. Often, owners blame the pet and never evaluate whether or not they are becoming a bad pet parent. Learning about your pet’s specific needs and breeds is essential to being a good pet parent.
For example, you ought to be aware of their grooming needs, exercise needs, and how frequently you need to bring the outdoors, as well as supplies and new tech that would assist you in catering to your dog’s needs.
Becoming a competent pet owner and understanding the essentials of what your dog need can help you avoid getting surprised by undesirable behavior in the foreseeable future. It also is essential to take responsibility for your actions and words. Pets are like family members; they deserve to be treated with love and respect.
🔴Puppy-Proof Your Home
It is essential, especially if you have a new Irish Setter puppy or an adult dog that likes to chew on things. Puppies are curious and will put anything in their mouths, so it is essential to make sure that your house is safe for them.
Move any poisonous plants out of reach, pick up any small objects off the floor, and put away any shoes or clothing you do not want your dog to chew on. You should also create a safe space for your dog where they can go to relax and feel comfortable. It could be a crate or a bed in a quiet room in your house.
🔴Provide Mental Stimulation
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for dogs. Dogs need to use their brains to stay happy and healthy. They can become bored and destructive if they are not given enough mental stimulation.
There are many ways to provide mental stimulation for your dog. You can give them puzzle toys to solve, teach them new tricks, or take them on hikes in new places. The possibilities are endless. The most important thing is to be creative and have fun with it. Your dog will love spending time with you no matter what you are doing.
🔴Make a Strong Connection
Bonding time with your Irish Setter or Golden Retriever is essential to create a strong connection. This bonding time will help you understand your dog better and build a strong relationship. It is also a great way to relieve any stress that either of you may be feeling.
Both the Irish Setter and Golden Retrievers are active breeds. They need plenty of exercises to stay healthy and happy. If you do not have time to take your dog on long walks or runs, there are many other ways to keep them active.
You can play fetch in your backyard or just take your dog for a walk around the block. It is important to find an activity that you and your dog both enjoy to stick with it. It is also essential to spend time just cuddling and petting your dog.
🔴Spaying and Neutering
Spaying and neutering your dog is integral to being a responsible pet parent. There are many benefits to spaying and neutering your dogs, such as reducing the risk of certain cancers, behavioral problems, and unwanted litters of puppies.
There are also many low-cost spay and neuter clinics available if you cannot afford to have the surgery done at a vet’s office. This is an important step to ensure your dog lives a long and healthy life.
🔴Learn to Recognize the Symptoms of Stress
Stress is a common issue for dogs, and many different things can cause it. It is essential to learn to recognize the symptoms of stress in your dog so that you can help them feel better.
In dogs, stress symptoms include panting, pacing, whining, shaking, chewing on themselves, and hiding. If you notice any of these symptoms, try to figure out what is causing the stress and remove it from your dog’s environment.
You can also provide your dog with a calming aid, such as a ThunderShirt, to help them feel more comfortable.
🔴Make Sure Your Dog is Up-to-Date on Their Vaccinations
It is important to ensure that your dog is up-to-date on their vaccinations. This will help protect them from serious diseases and illnesses. It is also a good idea to have your dog microchipped in case they get lost.
You can get your dog’s vaccinations at most vet offices. You must provide proof of vaccination if you ever take your dog to a boarding facility or daycare.
🔴Get an ID tagÂ
An ID tag is a small piece of metal or plastic attached to your dog’s collar. It should have your name, address, and phone number in case your dog ever gets lost. You can purchase an ID tag at most pet stores or online. You can also make one yourself using a sharpie and a piece of aluminum foil.
🔴Training Is ImportantÂ
The Irish Setter and Golden Retrievers are intelligent breeds that are easy to train. However, all dogs need some form of training. Training helps your dog know what is expected of them and builds a bond between you and your dog.
There are many different types of training available for dogs. You can sign up for classes at your local pet store or look online for tutorials. The most important thing is to be consistent with your training and to have patience.
🔴Feed Your Dog a Healthy DietÂ
A healthy diet is important for all dogs but especially for active breeds like the Irish Setter and Golden Retrievers. A healthy diet will help your dog maintain energy levels and stay in good shape.
You can purchase high-quality dog food at most pet stores or online. You should avoid giving your dog table scraps as they are often unhealthy for dogs.
🔴Socialization Is the Key to a Happy DogÂ
Socialization is the process of exposing your dog to different people, places, and situations. It is important to socialize your dog to learn how to behave around other dogs and people. Especially if you have kids, you’ll want to ensure that your dog is comfortable around them.
You can socialize your dog by taking them on walks, to the dog park, or to doggy daycare. It is also a good idea to have visitors over to your house on a regular basis.
🔴Be Prepared for SheddingÂ
The Irish Setter and Golden Retrievers are breeds that shed a lot. You will need to brush them regularly and vacuum your house frequently. You may also want to consider investing in a lint roller.
Shedding is normal for both of these breeds, but there are some things you can do to minimize it. Brush your dog’s fur regularly and give them baths only when necessary. You can also use a de-shedding tool to help remove loose fur from their coat.
🔴Expect Potty Accidents
You should also be prepared for potty accidents. The Irish Setter and Golden Retrievers are prone to separation anxiety, which can cause accidents in the house. Be sure to give your dog plenty of exercise and attention to help prevent this from happening.
Potty training takes time, patience, and consistency. You can use many different methods, so find one that works best for you and your dog.
These are just a few things to keep in mind if you consider getting an Irish Setter or a Golden Retriever. Both breeds make great pets, but they are not right for everyone. Be sure to do your research before you make a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do Irish setters have a similarity to Golden retrievers?
Both breeds are intelligent, active, and friendly. However, they do have some differences. Irish Setters are larger and shed more than Golden Retrievers. Golden Retrievers are better suited for families with small children. However, the most common distinction between these breeds is size and energy, with Irish Setters being larger and more energetic.
Q: Which breed is more affectionate?
Both the Irish Setter and Golden Retrievers are very affectionate breeds. However, Golden Retrievers are typically more affectionate towards their family. They are also called “Velcro dogs” because they love being close to their owners.
Q: Which breed is more independent?
The Irish Setter is a more independent breed than a Golden Retriever. They are not as clingy and do not require as much attention. However, they still need plenty of exercises and mental stimulation.
Q: What dog breed has a similarity to an Irish setter?
There are a few breeds that have similarities to the Irish Setter. These include the Gordon Setter, the Brittany, and the Vizsla. All three of these breeds are medium to large-sized dogs that are active and require plenty of exercises. They also all shed moderately.
Q: What dog breed has a similarity to a golden retriever?
Some breeds that are similar to a Golden Retriever include the Labrador Retriever, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and the Flat-Coated Retriever. All three of these breeds are large, active dogs requiring plenty of exercises. They are also all known for being very friendly and good with families.
Final Thoughts
If you are considering getting either an Irish Setter vs. Golden Retriever, be sure to do your research. Both breeds make great pets, but they are not right for everyone. Consider your lifestyle and the breed’s needs before making a decision.
Irish setters vs golden retrievers is a difficult question since both dogs are so similar in many ways, but there are some key differences to consider, which we have outlined in this article. So, I hope this has helped clear any confusion and given you a better understanding of each breed! Thanks for reading.
