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

English Setter
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
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
Large
29–36 kg
Flat, silky
11–15 years
25–32 kg
High energy
Medium
20–32 kg
Curly, dense
12–15 years
18–27 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
English Setter
Very sociable with people and other dogs
Learns commands quickly with consistent training
Needs regular exercise and active play
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to new environments and routines
Poodle
Warm and sociable with family and guests
Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands
Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise
Loves games and interactive playtime
Easily adjusts to new environments and routines
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
English Setter
Hip dysplasia, deafness
Poodle
Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
English Setter
Good option
Patient and gentle, but requires consistent training and exercise for beginners
Not ideal
Needs ample space and activity, making small apartments a challenge
Perfect fit
Thrives in active households with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation
Very friendly
Known for gentle nature and patience with young children
Highly suitable
Generally sociable and does well with other pets when properly introduced
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop separation issues
Poodle
Great choice
Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.
Highly suitable
Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Perfect fit
Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.
Very friendly
Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.
Gets along well
Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.
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.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience