Irish Setter vs Labrador Retriever Cost Comparison 2026
Irish Setter costs $2,060/yr vs $2,100/yr for Labrador Retriever. Over a lifetime: $27,170 vs $27,800. Here's where the money goes.
Irish Setter
$27,170
lifetime (12 yrs)
Lifetime Difference
$630
Irish Setter costs less
Labrador Retriever
$27,800
lifetime (12 yrs)
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Irish Setter | Labrador Retriever | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $800–$1,800 | $800–$2,000 | Irish Setter |
| Annual Food | $600 | $660 | Irish Setter |
| Routine Vet Care | $480 | $550 | Irish Setter |
| Grooming | $180 | $60 | Labrador Retriever |
| Pet Insurance | $28–$58/mo | $35–$65/mo | Irish Setter |
| Supplies & Training | $400 | $350 | Labrador Retriever |
| Total Annual Cost | $2,060 | $2,100 | Irish Setter |
| Lifetime Cost | $27,170 | $27,800 | Irish Setter |
Irish Setter Cost Profile
- Size
- large
- Lifespan
- 12 years
- Purchase Price
- $800–$1,800
- Annual Cost
- $2,060/yr
- Lifetime Total
- $27,170
Labrador Retriever Cost Profile
- Size
- large
- Lifespan
- 12 years
- Purchase Price
- $800–$2,000
- Annual Cost
- $2,100/yr
- Lifetime Total
- $27,800
Bottom Line
Annual costs are nearly identical — $40/yr difference. Your choice comes down to lifespan, grooming needs, and health risk, not ongoing budget impact.