Don't be discouraged. The Irish Setter is still a wonderful, gentle breed. The dog that bit must have had an unfortunate history. I am assuming this was a serious bite and not playful. The growling one my have been protecting you. Once he became acquainted with the stranger, did he continue to growl? I have an Irish Setter, English Setter (rescued) and a crossbreed English Setter?Spaniel?Pointer? which I found near a dumpster in the village. He has a terrible fear of being abandoned and won't join the others for runs in the mountain. Had to carry him back to the car. He is very appreciate of everything I do for him. I just have to house train him and stop him from playful nibbles. I'm sure he will be great as he and the other two get along fine as long as he doesn't nibble them too much.