Here's why:
* Different origins: Irish Setters originated in Ireland, while Golden Retrievers were bred in Scotland. They were developed for different purposes.
* Different ancestors: Irish Setters are descended from setter-type dogs bred for hunting birds, while Golden Retrievers are descended from Tweed Water Spaniels, bred for retrieving waterfowl.
However, they share a common ancestor: Both breeds can trace their lineage back to Old Spanish Pointers, a breed that was brought to Europe by the Spanish and played a role in the development of various pointing and retrieving breeds.
So, while not directly related, they share some common ancestry and possess similar qualities, making them both popular and beloved dog breeds.