Golden Retriever vs Irish Setter
Side-by-side comparison: temperament, exercise, grooming, health, and cost of ownership.
Golden Retriever
Friendly, reliable, and devoted, the Golden Retriever is one of the most popular family dogs in the world. They are eager to please and excel in obedience, agility, and as therapy dogs.
VS
Irish Setter
A stunning, flame-coated sporting dog known for grace and boundless enthusiasm. Irish Setters are outgoing, sweet-natured family dogs that love long runs and outdoor adventures.
Quick Answer
Choose Golden Retriever if you want easier to train. Choose Irish Setter if you want less shedding.
Quick Comparison
Golden Retriever
Attribute
Irish Setter
large
Size
large
25–34 kg (55–75 lbs)
Weight
27–32 kg (60–71 lbs)
51–61 cm (20–24 in)
Height
58–68 cm (23–27 in)
10–12 yrs
Lifespan
12–15 yrsBetter
Better5/5
Trainability
4/5
4/5
Energy
5/5
5/5
Good with Kids
5/5
5/5
Shedding
3/5Better
4/5
Grooming
4/5
2/5
Apartment
2/5
3/5
Health
3/5
Better$800–$2,500
Price
$1,000–$2,500
Attribute Comparison
Health Profile: Golden Retriever and Irish Setter Compared
Both breeds have similar health profiles.
Golden Retriever
Irish Setter
Lifespan (years)
10–12
vs12–15Better
Health Robustness
3/5
vs3/5
The lifespan difference is significant. Irish Setters live 12–15 years on average, while Golden Retrievers live 10–12 years.
Temperament: Golden Retriever vs Irish Setter
Golden Retriever is calmer; Irish Setter is more energetic.
Golden Retriever
Irish Setter
Playfulness
5/5
vs5/5
Barking Level
3/5
vs2/5Better
Energy
4/5
vs5/5
The Golden Retriever and Irish Setter bring very different personalities to the table. Golden Retrievers are friendly, intelligent and devoted, while Irish Setters tend to be outgoing, sweet-natured and active.
Exercise Needs: Golden Retriever vs Irish Setter
Irish Setter needs more exercise; Golden Retriever is lower-maintenance.
Golden Retriever
Irish Setter
Energy Level
4/5
vs5/5
Exercise Needs
4/5
vs5/5
Apartment Friendly
2/5
vs2/5
The Irish Setter needs slightly more exercise (5/5) than the Golden Retriever (4/5), but neither breed is at an extreme. Both have very high to high energy levels, so the difference in your daily routine will be modest — perhaps an extra 15-20 minutes of activity for the Irish Setter.
Grooming Differences: Golden Retriever and Irish Setter
Golden Retriever sheds more; Irish Setter is easier to maintain.
Golden Retriever
Irish Setter
Shedding
5/5
vs3/5Better
Grooming Needs
4/5
vs4/5
Shedding is a major differentiator. The Golden Retriever is a prolific shedder (5/5) — expect fur on your clothes, furniture, and car seats year-round.
Which Is Easier to Train — Golden Retriever or Irish Setter?
The Golden Retriever has a slight training edge (5/5 vs 4/5). Both respond to positive reinforcement, but the Golden Retriever tends to catch on a bit faster.
Which Costs More to Own — Golden Retriever or Irish Setter?
Both breeds cost about the same to own.
Golden Retriever
Avg. Purchase$1,650
Annual Food$720
Annual Vet$500
Annual Grooming$200
Annual Total$1,420
Irish Setter
Avg. Purchase$1,750
Annual Food$720
Annual Vet$500
Annual Grooming$200
Annual Total$1,420
Both breeds cost a similar amount upfront — $800–$2,500 for a Golden Retriever versus $1,000–$2,500 for a Irish Setter. Where the real cost differences emerge is in ongoing expenses.
Golden Retriever and Irish Setter: Size and Appearance Compared
Both breeds are similar in size.
Golden Retriever
Irish Setter
Weight (kg)
25–34
vs27–32
Height (cm)
51–61
vs58–68
These breeds are near-identical in stature. The Golden Retriever weighs 25–34 kg (55–75 lbs) and the Irish Setter weighs 27–32 kg (60–71 lbs) — close enough that size alone won't drive your decision.
Family Fit: Golden Retriever vs Irish Setter With Kids and Other Pets
Both breeds are similarly family-friendly.
Golden Retriever
Irish Setter
Good with Kids
5/5
vs5/5
Good with Dogs
5/5
vs5/5
Strangers
5/5
vs5/5
Both breeds score 5/5 with children, making them equally suitable for families. Either breed would make an excellent family dog.
Summary: Golden Retriever or Irish Setter?
Neither breed is objectively "better" — it depends on your priorities. Choose the Golden Retriever if you value easier to train (5/5 vs 4/5) and lower exercise needs (4/5).
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Verdict
The Golden Retriever and Irish Setter are both popular breeds, but they suit different lifestyles. The key differences: Golden Retriever sheds considerably more. Annual ownership costs are broadly similar for both breeds.
Choose Golden Retriever if...
- ✓You have other dogs at home — Golden Retrievers tend to get along well with other dogs (5/5).
- ✓Their temperament and lifestyle fit aligns better with your situation — use our quiz for a personalized recommendation.
Choose Irish Setter if...
- ✓You have other dogs at home — Irish Setters tend to get along well with other dogs (5/5).
- ✓Their temperament and lifestyle fit aligns better with your situation — use our quiz for a personalized recommendation.
Neither may be right if...
Both the Golden Retriever and Irish Setter have high energy needs (4/5 and 5/5 respectively). If you live in a small apartment without park access or can't commit to 60+ minutes of daily exercise, consider a lower-energy breed like a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Shih Tzu instead.
Looking for more options?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for families, Golden Retriever or Irish Setter?
The Golden Retriever scores 5/5 for being good with kids, tying with the Irish Setter at 5/5. The Golden Retriever is specifically recommended for families.
Is a Golden Retriever or Irish Setter easier to train?
The Golden Retriever is easier to train with a score of 5/5, compared to the Irish Setter's 4/5. The Golden Retriever is recommended for first-time owners thanks to its cooperative nature.
Which costs more, a Golden Retriever or Irish Setter?
A Golden Retriever puppy costs $800–$2,500 while a Irish Setter costs $1,000–$2,500. Annual maintenance runs about $1,420 for the Golden Retriever and $1,420 for the Irish Setter. Annual costs are nearly identical.
Do Golden Retrievers or Irish Setters live longer?
The Golden Retriever lives 10–12 years on average, while the Irish Setter lives 12–15 years. The Irish Setter tends to live longer. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
Can a Golden Retriever or Irish Setter live in an apartment?
The Golden Retriever is equally suited for apartments (2/5) as the Irish Setter (2/5). Neither breed is ideal for apartments — both prefer more space.