Gordon Setter
The sturdiest of the setters, the black-and-tan Gordon Setter is loyal, brave and very attached to its family.
Gordon Setter vs Irish Red Setter
Side by side
| Trait | Gordon Setter | Irish Red Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Pointing dogs | Pointing dogs |
| Size | Large | Large |
| Weight | 25–30 kg | 25–32 kg |
| Height at withers | 62–66 cm | 55–67 cm |
| Life expectancy | 10–12 years | 12–15 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Not recommended | Not recommended |
Key differences
- Longer life expectancy: Irish Red Setter (about 13.5 years vs 11 years on average)
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- Irish Red Setter is the better fitBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Both are similarBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Irish Red Setter is the better fitBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Irish Red Setter
A stunning dog with a flaming mahogany coat, the Irish Setter is cheerful, exuberant and affectionate, an eternal teenager full of energy.