Breed matchup

English Setter vs Golden Retriever

Interactive head-to-head—swap sides, filter traits, and see who edges each lifestyle score before you read the full guides.

English Setter

Golden Retriever

English Setter

large · England

Golden Retriever

large · Scotland

Head-to-head

English Setter vs Golden Retriever

Derived comparison from breed profiles: Both land in a similar high energy band. Kids compatibility is close (5/5 each). Golden Retriever sheds more (5/5). Graceful and elegant hunting dog with a gentle disposition. The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.

Derived from breed profile scores—not a substitute for meeting dogs or consulting professionals.

large vs large

Energy 4 vs 4

medium vs long

11-15 years · 10-12 years

Biggest differences

Weight

45-80 lbs

55-75 lbs

Height

23-27 inches

21.5-24 inches

Lifespan

11-15 years

10-12 years

Monthly cost*

$90–$170

$80–$150

*Typical ownership cost band estimate—not a quote.

Lifestyle scores

Tap a trait for context. Filter by what matters most to you.

Temperament

Typical breed leanings—individuals vary.

English Setter

Graceful and elegant hunting dog with a gentle disposition. Overall, English Setters are described as gentle, friendly, energetic, intelligent. Trainability sits around 5/5 and bark tendency around 3/5, so consistent positive training usually pays off quickly.

Gentle

Friendly

Energetic

Intelligent

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the U. Overall, Golden Retrievers are described as friendly, intelligent, devoted, trustworthy. Trainability sits around 5/5 and bark tendency around 2/5, so consistent positive training usually pays off quickly.

Friendly

Intelligent

Devoted

Trustworthy

Care side by side

Grooming, exercise, and training at a glance.

English Setter

High energy requiring daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Golden Retriever

Needs at least 1 hour of vigorous exercise daily. Loves swimming and retrieving activities.

Who should choose which?

Use this as a shortlist—then meet dogs and read full guides.

Choose English Setter

Choose a English Setter if you want a large dog with high energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit poor. Temperament leans gentle and friendly.

Choose Golden Retriever

Choose a Golden Retriever if you prefer large size, high energy, kids fit excellent, and apartment fit limited. Traits include friendly and intelligent.

Still deciding?

Take the lifestyle match quiz or open both breed guides for first-year costs, health screening, and adopter questions.

FAQs

What is the difference between a English Setter and a Golden Retriever?

Which is better for apartments, English Setter or Golden Retriever?

Golden Retriever is the stronger apartment candidate (2/5).

Which is better with kids, English Setter or Golden Retriever?

Both rate 5/5 with children when supervised and socialized.

How do English Setter and Golden Retriever compare on energy?

English Setter: 4/5 (high). Golden Retriever: 4/5 (high). Match the higher-energy breed only if you can meet exercise needs daily.

References

This comparison summarizes publicly available breed-standard and veterinary education sources. Always consult your veterinarian for individual care, and meet dogs in person before deciding.