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English Setter vs Poodle

Discover the differences between English Setter and Poodle to make the best choice for your situation.

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English Setter
England

English Setter

Sporting Group
Large

Graceful, affectionate, and energetic, this breed thrives on companionship and outdoor adventure. Its elegant feathered coat and gentle nature make it a beloved family dog.

Poodle
Germany/France

Poodle

Non-Sporting Group
Medium

Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.

Quick comparison

Size:

Large

Male:

29–36 kg

Coat:

Flat, silky

Lifespan:

11–15 years

Female:

25–32 kg

Energy:

High energy

Size:

Medium

Male:

20–32 kg

Coat:

Curly, dense

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Female:

18–27 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

English Setter

Friendliness
5/5

Very sociable with people and other dogs

Intelligence
4/5

Learns commands quickly with consistent training

Energy Level
5/5

Needs regular exercise and active play

Playfulness
5/5

Enjoys games and interactive activities

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to new environments and routines

Poodle

Friendliness
5/5

Warm and sociable with family and guests

Intelligence
5/5

Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands

Energy Level
4/5

Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive playtime

Adaptability
5/5

Easily adjusts to new environments and routines

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

English Setter

Grooming:
High grooming needs (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Seasonal shedding
Trainability:
Quick learner
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, deafness

Poodle

Grooming:
High grooming needs (at least weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

English Setter

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Patient and gentle, but requires consistent training and exercise for beginners

Apartment Living
2/5

Not ideal

Needs ample space and activity, making small apartments a challenge

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Perfect fit

Thrives in active households with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation

Kids
5/5

Very friendly

Known for gentle nature and patience with young children

Multiple Pets
4/5

Highly suitable

Generally sociable and does well with other pets when properly introduced

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop separation issues

Poodle

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.

Apartment Living
4/5

Highly suitable

Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Perfect fit

Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.

Kids
5/5

Very friendly

Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.

Multiple Pets
4/5

Gets along well

Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.

Breed strengths

What each breed excels at and their best qualities

English Setter

  • Friendly with children and other dogs
  • Highly trainable for field work
  • Gentle, affectionate companion at home
  • Excellent stamina for active lifestyles
  • Adaptable to various living situations

Poodle

  • Highly intelligent and easy to train
  • Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
  • Strong bond with family members
  • Adaptable to various living environments
  • Excellent performance in canine sports

Challenges & considerations

Potential challenges and considerations for each breed

English Setter

  • Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
  • Requires daily vigorous exercise and stimulation
  • Needs regular grooming to prevent matting
  • Can be distracted by scents during walks
  • May develop stubbornness without consistent training

Poodle

  • Requires regular professional grooming
  • Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
  • Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
  • Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
  • Susceptible to certain genetic health issues

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

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