Gordon Setter vs Weimaraner (Short-haired)
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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.
Weimaraner (Short-haired)
The short-haired Weimaraner is the more common variety, tracing back to the Grand Duchy of Weimar, where 19th-century aristocrats used it to hunt large game. The sleek, metallic grey coat gave the breed its nickname, the grey ghost, earned from its unusual color and quiet, gliding movement. Males can weigh up to 40 kilograms, with a muscular build originally suited to big game rather than just birds. The grey or amber eyes stand out sharply against the coat. The breed needs serious daily exercise, without it the dog tends to grow anxious and vocal. It bonds closely with its family, often following its owner from room to room. Life expectancy runs 10 to 13 years.
At a glance
| Gordon Setter | Weimaraner (Short-haired) | |
|---|---|---|
| Height (male) | 62.0–68.0 cm | 59.0–70.0 cm |
| Weight (male) | 25.0–36.0 kg | 30.0–40.0 kg |
| Life expectancy | 10–12 yrs | 10–13 yrs |
| Coat | medium-long, flat or slightly wavy, black and tan | short, sleek, metallic grey |
Temperament & Family Life
| Gordon Setter | Weimaraner (Short-haired) | |
|---|---|---|
| Family friendly | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Trainability |
Exercise, Energy & Space
| Gordon Setter | Weimaraner (Short-haired) | |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | ||
| Exercise need | ||
| Apartment friendly | ||
| Prey drive | ||
| Hunting instinct |
Guarding & Alertness
| Gordon Setter | Weimaraner (Short-haired) | |
|---|---|---|
| Guarding instinct | ||
| Watchfulness | ||
| Barking level |
Grooming & Care
| Gordon Setter | Weimaraner (Short-haired) | |
|---|---|---|
| Shedding | ||
| Drooling | ||
| Grooming need |
Temperament and care scores (1-5) are a general guide based on the breed standard — every individual dog is different.