Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Gordon Setter
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Gordon Setter: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Agreeable0.6
Gordon Setter: Independent0.4
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Gordon Setter: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Gordon Setter3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog3/5
Gordon Setter3/5
Good with Strangers
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Gordon Setter3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Bloat: Serious digestive emergency
Eye Problems: Various hereditary issues
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Splenic Torsion: Emergency condition
Gordon Setter
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Bloat: Gastric dilatation-volvulus
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Cancer: Various types common in breed
Pros & Cons Comparison
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent watchdog capabilities
Good with children
Strong and athletic
Low grooming needs
Cons
Heavy shedding seasonally
Not apartment-friendly
Can be stubborn
Expensive to feed
Short lifespan
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, these gentle giants were known as 'poor man's horse' in Swiss farming communities.
Gordon Setter Fun Fact
Gordon Setters were once known as 'Black and Tan Setters' before being renamed after the Duke of Gordon.
Heritage & Purpose
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Origin:
Swiss farmers utilized these dogs in the Alps during the 1800s for drafting, herding, and guarding livestock. Their strength and versatility made them invaluable working companions.
Gordon Setter
Origin:
Developed in Scotland during the 1600s by the Duke of Gordon, these dogs excelled at hunting game birds in the Scottish Highlands, using their exceptional scenting abilities and stamina.
Special Considerations
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Needs early socialization and training. Regular exercise essential. Watch for signs of bloat and joint issues. Climate sensitivity in hot weather requires monitoring.
Gordon Setter
Regular grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Health screening for common breed issues is essential.