Gordon Setter vs Redbone Coonhound
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
Redbone Coonhound
Hound 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.
Redbone Coonhound Overview
Redbone Coonhounds possess a striking solid red coat and muscular build, with long ears and soulful brown eyes. Their athletic frame supports their renowned hunting abilities, while their expressive face reveals their gentle, even-tempered nature. Standing proudly with a deep chest and strong legs, these hounds combine power with agility, displaying the classic traits of a skilled trailing dog.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Gordon Setters are more energetic than Redbone Coonhounds, requiring more daily exercise.
- Grooming: Gordon Setters require less grooming attention compared to Redbone Coonhounds.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Gordon Setters tend to be more reserved with strangers than Redbone Coonhounds.
- Trainability: Gordon Setters may be slightly easier to train due to their Gordon Setter's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Redbone Coonhounds 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 Redbone Coonhound, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Gordon Setter | Redbone Coonhound |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-13 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Sporting Group | Hound Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Gordon Setter | Redbone Coonhound |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 23-27 inches 58-69 cm | 21-27 inches 53-69 cm |
| Weight | 45-80 lbs 20-36 kg | 45-70 lbs 20-32 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Gordon Setter | Redbone Coonhound |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Affectionate, Confident, Bold | Even-Tempered, Amiable, Eager to Please |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Gordon Setter | Redbone Coonhound |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Redbone Coonhound Temperament
The Redbone Coonhound is characterized by being even-tempered, amiable, eager to please, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. 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 Redbone Coonhound, 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
Redbone Coonhound
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
Redbone Coonhound
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Gordon Setter
Rating: 5/5
Redbone Coonhound
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
Redbone Coonhound
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
Redbone Coonhound
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.
Redbone Coonhound Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Redbone Coonhounds 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, Redbone Coonhounds 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
Redbone Coonhound Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Ear Infections
- Bloat
- Obesity
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
Redbone Coonhound
Pros
- Excellent tracking abilities
- Friendly temperament
- Good with families
- Low grooming needs
Cons
- High exercise requirements
- Strong prey drive
- Can be vocal
- Needs space to roam
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Gordon Setter and Redbone Coonhound, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.