The crossbreed between an Irish Setter and Golden Retriever (Golden Irish) is a well-executed combination, uniting the natural elegance of the charming red Setter with the vital energy of its golden partner.
The result is a hybrid that excellently combines the characteristics of two friendly and athletic breeds.
Let's examine the features of this crossbreed:
Appearance
As with all hybrids, the appearance of an Irish Setter and Golden Retriever cross can vary, but the dog will still have a pleasant and balanced appearance.
These dogs will definitely be medium to large in size, with an elegant posture and a muscular structure.
They have a thick and shiny coat, with colors that can combine the red shade of the Irish Setter with the characteristic golden color of the Golden Retriever.
They will have long, drooping ears, bright eyes, and a beautiful muzzle with a pronounced stop.
Size
Height: 53-71 cm
Weight: 25-36 kg
Character
This crossbreed produces sociable hybrids, but they retain some of the natural reserve of the Irish Setter.
Less energetic than the Golden Retriever, or rather, less intense than the young Golden Retriever, which is equivalent to a tornado made dog, the Golden Irish still have a strong life force and need a lot of exercise.
They are very friendly dogs both with people and other pets, never aggressive, and not suitable as guard dogs.
They have a balanced temperament and are intelligent, making them easy to train. They are extremely affectionate dogs and closely bonded to their family.
Physical Activity
The Irish Setter and Golden Retriever crossbreed is an energetic dog that requires a good amount of daily exercise.
It needs long walks, play sessions, and stimulating activities to maintain its health and psychophysical well-being.
These dogs are particularly suitable for active families who love outdoor activities, have large spaces available, and know how to entertain them with sports activities like swimming and long walks.
By the way, for enthusiasts of the precious tuber... they can also be excellent truffle dogs!
Training
The Irish Setter and Golden Retriever crossbreed is intelligent and eager to learn, and its nature as a former hunting dog makes training relatively easy.
These dogs respond well to positive reinforcement and motivation, quickly learn commands, and are able to maintain focus and correctly perform assigned tasks.
Basic training, such as basic commands and socialization, is important to ensure balanced and obedient behavior.
Take a look at our guide on How to Train a Setter: practical and effective tips for all.
We created it for Setters but it also applies to other dogs, and certainly to all their crossbreeds!
We also have one dedicated to sports activities with dogs, which might give you some ideas on how to spend time with your favorite adventure companion!
Hygiene and Grooming
The coat of this crossbreed requires regular brushing to remove dead hair and prevent knots.
More time may be needed for grooming during the shedding season.
But shedding isn't limited to just one period, as both breeds lose quite a bit of hair throughout the year.
Consider in the annual maintenance cost that this dog might need a couple of stripping sessions a year.
Ear, eye, and dental hygiene must also be maintained to keep the dog healthy.
You can still perform basic bathing and grooming at home, if you have a bathtub or a shower large enough for the dog.
For step-by-step instructions on how to do it correctly, read our guide:
Dog Grooming: How to Do It Like a Pro!
And if your big puppy has inherited the Irish Setter's coat:
Grooming the English Setter – Tips, Care, and Style
Diet
The diet of the Irish Setter and Golden Retriever crossbreed should be balanced and suited to their specific needs.
Remember that large dogs need a diet high in protein but must control calories, as weight gain could affect their motor abilities in old age.
It's important to provide quality nutrition and appropriate portions to keep the dog healthy and fit.
Consult a veterinarian for precise dietary recommendations, or read our guides:
Golden Retriever Feeding Chart
Feeding the Irish Setter: How to Feed Them Healthily
In conclusion…
A crossbreed between an Irish Setter and Golden Retriever is a fascinating combination that offers a mix of beauty, affection, and energy.
It's an ideal dog for active and outdoor-loving families but also adapts well to living indoors, provided it is taken out frequently and the house is not tiny.
Always remember to dedicate time and energy to meet the physical and mental needs of this crossbreed, to ensure a happy and healthy life for your dog.
Interested in other Golden Retriever crossbreeds?
Try these, we're sure you'll like them:
Golden Retriever Dalmatian Crossbreed
Husky Golden Retriever Crossbreed
Spinone and Golden Retriever Crossbreed
Other articles that might interest you
Irish Setter Diseases: Essential Information to Discover Them
If knowing everything about this dog isn't enough and you want to learn more about the most beloved dog breeds in Italy, click here!
Disclaimer
These dogs are crossbreeds without recognized breed standards, so physical and character traits can vary significantly between individuals. The images in this article represent only one of the many possibilities that can arise from this crossbreed and are not indicative of the future appearance of the puppy.
