Irish Setter vs Labrador Retriever
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Setter: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Labrador Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Setter: Agreeable0.6
Labrador Retriever: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Setter: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Labrador Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Setter5/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Setter5/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Setter5/5
Labrador Retriever5/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Irish Setter
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
PRA: Progressive eye disease
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
OCD: Joint cartilage issue
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Labrador Retriever
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
PRA: Progressive eye deterioration
Exercise-Induced Collapse: Activity limit
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Pros & Cons Comparison
Irish Setter
Pros
Affectionate and friendly
Athletic and energetic
Good with families
Beautiful appearance
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be stubborn
Not ideal for apartments
Labrador Retriever
Pros
Excellent family dog
Highly trainable
Great with children
Versatile working ability
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Prone to weight gain
Chewing tendency in puppyhood
Irish Setter Fun Fact
Their flowing red coat earned them the nickname 'Rolling Thunder' among Irish hunters in the 1800s.
Labrador Retriever Fun Fact
Labrador Retrievers have a special gene that makes them obsessed with food, contributing to their trainability!
Heritage & Purpose
Irish Setter
Origin:
Developed in Ireland during the 1800s, these dogs excelled at hunting game birds across vast territories. Their distinctive red coat made them visible to hunters in field conditions.
Labrador Retriever
Origin:
Developed in Newfoundland during the 1800s, these dogs worked alongside fishermen retrieving nets and fish, later refined in England as sporting and hunting companions.
Special Considerations
Irish Setter
Regular grooming needed for silky coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Watch for signs of hip problems and eye issues as they age.
Labrador Retriever
Regular grooming needed during heavy shedding seasons. Exercise requirements must be met daily. Weight management crucial to prevent obesity-related health issues.
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