German Shorthaired Pointer vs Gordon Setter
Compare two breeds
Pick two breeds to see them compared side by side.
German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer was developed in the 19th century by crossing old Spanish Pointers with German scent hounds, aiming for an all-around gundog that could work both before and after the shot. The short, dense, weatherproof coat handles any conditions, and males can weigh up to 32 kilograms, with a muscular, highly durable build. It's one of the most popular hunting breeds in the world, combining nose, speed, and trainability in a rare package. Energy levels run very high, and without enough exercise the dog tends to grow destructive indoors. Temperament runs driven and sharp, quick to pick up new commands. It's affectionate with family but needs constant occupation. Life expectancy runs 12 to 14 years.
Gordon Setter
The breed was developed in late 18th century Scotland by the fourth Duke of Gordon, who gave it his name, aiming for a setter sturdy and enduring enough for rugged, hilly terrain. It is the heaviest of the three setter breeds: a male can reach 36 kilograms, on a considerably heavier frame than its English or Irish cousins. The medium length, flat or slightly wavy coat is always black with rich tan markings, and that combination is so distinctive that similar coloring is often described simply as gordon coloring. Though bred as a gundog, the Gordon Setter matures more slowly than most breeds and can be quite boisterous and clumsy as a youngster. With family it tends to be loyal and protective, sometimes reserved with strangers. Regular brushing is essential to keep the coat from matting. Life expectancy runs 10 to 12 years.
At a glance
| German Shorthaired Pointer | Gordon Setter | |
|---|---|---|
| Height (male) | 62.0–66.0 cm | 62.0–68.0 cm |
| Weight (male) | 25.0–32.0 kg | 25.0–36.0 kg |
| Life expectancy | 12–14 yrs | 10–12 yrs |
| Coat | short, dense, weatherproof | medium-long, flat or slightly wavy, black and tan |
Temperament & Family Life
| German Shorthaired Pointer | Gordon Setter | |
|---|---|---|
| Family friendly | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Trainability |
Exercise, Energy & Space
| German Shorthaired Pointer | Gordon Setter | |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | ||
| Exercise need | ||
| Apartment friendly | ||
| Prey drive | ||
| Hunting instinct |
Guarding & Alertness
| German Shorthaired Pointer | Gordon Setter | |
|---|---|---|
| Guarding instinct | ||
| Watchfulness | ||
| Barking level |
Grooming & Care
| German Shorthaired Pointer | Gordon Setter | |
|---|---|---|
| Shedding | ||
| Drooling | ||
| Grooming need |
Temperament and care scores (1-5) are a general guide based on the breed standard — every individual dog is different.