Gordon Setter vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Gordon Setter and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Gordon Setter
Elegant, loyal, and full of energy, this breed thrives on companionship and adventure. Known for its striking black-and-tan coat and keen hunting instincts.
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Large
25–36 kg
Straight, silky
10–12 years
20–32 kg
High energy
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Gordon Setter
Warm with family, reserved with strangers
Quick learner, responsive to training
High stamina, enjoys active pursuits
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts with time, prefers consistency
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Gordon Setter
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Gordon Setter
Moderate challenge
Needs patient, consistent training from owners with some experience
Not ideal
Needs ample space and daily vigorous exercise
Perfect fit
Thrives with active owners who enjoy outdoor activities
Very suitable
Gentle and patient with children if socialized early
Generally compatible
Usually gets along but may chase small pets due to hunting instincts
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop destructive behaviors
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Gordon Setter
- Loyal family companion
- Excellent scent and hunting ability
- Intelligent and quick to learn tasks
- Good stamina for outdoor activities
- Strong bond with primary owner
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Gordon Setter
- Needs high daily exercise
- Prone to separation anxiety when alone
- Can be stubborn during training
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires grooming
- May be reserved with unfamiliar people
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
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