English Setter vs Keeshond
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
English Setter
Sporting Group
Keeshond
Non-Sporting Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
English Setter Overview
English Setters showcase an elegant and athletic build with distinctive speckled coat patterns known as 'belton.' Their graceful movement and medium-sized, well-proportioned frame exemplify sporting dog refinement. Distinguished by their gentle expression, long neck, and deep chest, these dogs combine beauty with functionality. Their silky, flat coat features unique feathering on legs, chest, and tail.
Keeshond Overview
Keeshonds are distinctive spitz-type dogs featuring a luxurious double coat in silver and black, with distinctive 'spectacles' around their expressive eyes. Their fox-like face, coupled with a proud, plumed tail and thick ruff around the neck, creates an instantly recognizable silhouette. Medium-sized and well-proportioned, they carry themselves with confidence and grace.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: English Setters are more energetic than Keeshonds, requiring more daily exercise.
- Grooming: English Setters require less grooming attention compared to Keeshonds.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, English Setters tend to be more reserved with strangers than Keeshonds.
- Trainability: Keeshonds may be slightly easier to train due to their Keeshond's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Keeshonds adapt better to apartment living, while English Setters typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the English Setter and Keeshond, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | English Setter | Keeshond |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-12 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Sporting Group | Non-Sporting Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | English Setter | Keeshond |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 23-27 inches 58-69 cm | 17-18 inches 43-46 cm |
| Weight | 45-80 lbs 20-36 kg | 35-45 lbs 16-20 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Regularly | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | English Setter | Keeshond |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Friendly, Mellow, Merry | Friendly, Lively, Outgoing |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | English Setter | Keeshond |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
English Setter Temperament
The English Setter is known for being friendly, mellow, merry, making them excellent family dogs. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They're typically friendly with strangers, making them poor guard dogs but excellent social companions. With their high energy levels, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Keeshond Temperament
The Keeshond is characterized by being friendly, lively, outgoing, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They generally welcome strangers, making them sociable companions rather than protective guardians. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the English Setter and Keeshond, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
English Setter
Rating: 4/5
Keeshond
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
English Setter
Rating: 4/5
Keeshond
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
English Setter
Rating: 4/5
Keeshond
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
English Setter
Rating: 1/5
Keeshond
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
English Setter
Rating: 4/5
Keeshond
Rating: 4/5
Care & Maintenance
English Setter Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
English Setters require significant daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and more vigorous activities like running, swimming, or fetch.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, English Setters require frequent grooming. This includes brushing several times per week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is recommended.
Keeshond Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Keeshonds need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Keeshonds require significant grooming attention. This includes brushing several times per week to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is typically necessary.
Health & Lifespan
English Setter Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Deafness
- Hypothyroidism
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
Keeshond Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Heart Issues
- Eye Problems
Pros & Cons
English Setter
Pros
- Gentle and friendly temperament
- Excellent with children
- Athletic and versatile
- Good hunting companion
Cons
- Regular grooming required
- High exercise needs
- Can be stubborn
- Moderate shedding
Keeshond
Pros
- Excellent family companion
- Good with children
- Intelligent and trainable
- Alert watchdog
- Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
- Heavy shedding
- Regular grooming required
- Can be vocal
- Needs regular exercise
- May be stubborn
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the English Setter and Keeshond, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.