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Here at Sunshine Acres, we specialize in raising quality Golden Retriever puppies. We have focused on this wonderful cross so that we can offer you one of the best Golden Irish puppies available. This hybrid cross of the Irish Setter and Golden Retriever breeds combines the outstanding personality and train-ability of both of these breeds. Also, this cross provides a reduced risk of genetic defects that are often found in purebred dogs. The Golden Irish has less shedding and improved health, which is our goal.

Our History

We find that this cross is an excellent choice for Golden Retriever and Irish Setter lovers for the past 15+ years.  Sunshine Acres is family owned and family run, and is a top rated red Irish Retriever Breeder. We are located in northwest Indiana about halfway between Chicago and Indianapolis, just off I-65, near Wolcott. The Sunshine Acres Golden Irish is socialized in a family setting following techniques taught by Jan Fennell, The Dog Listener.

Why the Golden?

Golden Retrievers are one of the most gentle family dog breeds. For years, they have been a popular choice for those with young children, those that are older, and everyone in between. Golden Retriever puppies have the knack of causing love at first sight.  We want to capture the sweet nature of the Golden Retriever. While the Golden Irish is called by many different names besides Golden Irish, some of the familiar names  are: Irish Retrievers, Red Retrievers, and Irish Goldens, all of which come from the Golden Retriever X Irish Setter cross. If you want more information about the genetics of this cross, check out our FAQ.

Our Purpose

At Sunshine Acres, we cross the Irish to the Golden to produce what we believe is an outstanding out-cross. The Irish Setter breed has moderate energy levels, and they are loyal, friendly, and happy. Golden Retrievers are gentle, friendly, moderate to low energy levels, and smart. An Irish Setter’s coat is red, majestic, and beautiful, while the Golden’s coat is thick and heavy shedding with great color tones.  Just what were are looking for. Our parents are Lucy and Charlie.

Our Vision

The genetic health of the Golden has suffered somewhat over the years. There are two ways to alleviate this condition, which is caused by inbreeding. First, testing for known genetic issues and using purebred parents that pass these tests. This helps to produce future generations of healthy Golden Retrievers. Second, outcross the Golden Retriever to similar breeds (similar breeds help retain more Golden characteristics) in an attempt to reduce the genetic mutations that cause genetic disease. For example, the Golden Retriever is plagued with poor hips which leads to Canine Hip Dysplasia. The Irish Setter has a mild susceptibility to poor hips. By crossing these two breeds, one can expect puppies with healthier hips. The very best preventative combination for producing healthy puppies is to test for common diseases and outcrossing to another breed.