Miniature American Shepherd vs Gordon Setter
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Gordon Setter: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Gordon Setter: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Gordon Setter: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Gordon Setter3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Gordon Setter3/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Gordon Setter3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
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
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Gordon Setter Fun Fact
Gordon Setters were once known as 'Black and Tan Setters' before being renamed after the Duke of Gordon.
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Gordon Setter
Regular grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Health screening for common breed issues is essential.