Gordon Setter vs Poodle
Discover the differences between Gordon Setter and Poodle 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.
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
25–36 kg
Straight, silky
10–12 years
20–32 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.
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
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
Gordon Setter
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
Poodle
Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease
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
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
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
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
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
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
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