Gordon Setter vs Border Terrier
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Gordon Setter
Sporting Group
Border Terrier
Terrier Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Gordon Setter Overview
Gordon Setters are elegant sporting dogs with distinctive black and tan coats. Their strong, muscular build combines with graceful movement and noble bearing. Standing 24-27 inches at the shoulder, these dogs feature a silky coat, deep chest, and intelligent expression. Their temperament balances confidence with affection, making them both capable hunting companions and devoted family dogs.
Border Terrier Overview
Border Terriers possess a distinctive otter-like head, alert expression, and sturdy, well-proportioned frame. Their rough double coat, typically grizzle and tan or blue and tan, provides protection in all weather conditions. Standing 12-15 inches at the shoulder, these agile terriers combine a determined spirit with an affectionate nature, displaying remarkable stamina and intelligence in their movements.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Gordon Setters are more energetic than Border Terriers, requiring more daily exercise.
- Grooming: Gordon Setters require less grooming attention compared to Border Terriers.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Gordon Setters tend to be more reserved with strangers than Border Terriers.
- Trainability: Gordon Setters may be slightly easier to train due to their Gordon Setter's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Border Terriers adapt better to apartment living, while Gordon Setters typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Gordon Setter and Border Terrier, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Gordon Setter | Border Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Toy |
| Life Expectancy | 12-13 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Sporting Group | Terrier Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Gordon Setter | Border Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 23-27 inches 58-69 cm | 12-15 inches 30-38 cm |
| Weight | 45-80 lbs 20-36 kg | 11-15 lbs 5-7 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Occasional |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Gordon Setter | Border Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Affectionate, Confident, Bold | Affectionate, Happy, Plucky |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Gordon Setter | Border Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Gordon Setter Temperament
The Gordon Setter is known for being affectionate, confident, bold, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. With their high energy levels, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Border Terrier Temperament
The Border Terrier is characterized by being affectionate, happy, plucky, 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 Gordon Setter and Border Terrier, 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
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
Border Terrier
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
Border Terrier
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Gordon Setter
Rating: 5/5
Border Terrier
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
Border Terrier
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
Border Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Gordon Setter Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Gordon 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, Gordon Setters require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Border Terrier Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Border Terriers 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, Border Terriers require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Gordon Setter Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Bloat
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
Border Terrier Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip dysplasia
- SLEM
- Heart defects
- Epilepsy
- Eye problems
Pros & Cons
Gordon Setter
Pros
- Loyal and affectionate
- Excellent hunting companion
- Good with children
- Athletic and energetic
Cons
- High exercise needs
- Regular grooming required
- Can be stubborn
- Not apartment-friendly
Border Terrier
Pros
- Excellent with families
- Adaptable to different living situations
- Low grooming requirements
- Good with children
Cons
- Can be stubborn
- Strong prey drive
- May dig and bark
- Needs consistent exercise
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Gordon Setter and Border Terrier, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.