He was strong-willed, but so was his master, and he turned into a very good obedience dog. At an Annapolis Kennel Club show a few years ago, I watched as an Irish setter competed in the Utility class at the obedience trial the most advanced obedience class. This was a real heartbreaker. His gay spirit, willingness and control were admired by all of the observers. I have not had very many Irish setters in my obedience classes, but those I did have, perhaps with the exception of two, did very well.
Irish setters are naturally exuberant, and very strong dogs.
They need a lot of exercise, possibly more than a lot of other breeds. They do have a tendency to roam, if allowed to run free which should never happen and should be kept under control when outdoors so they can't run off. I don't consider them a good breed for apartment living. They can be very willful, and, as I said, are very strong when mature, so they need a strong, willful owner, too. It's important, therefore, that care is used in choosing a puppy.