Miniature Schnauzer vs Gordon Setter
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Miniature Schnauzer
Terrier Group
Gordon Setter
Sporting Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Miniature Schnauzer Overview
Miniature Schnauzers possess a distinctive beard and eyebrows framing their alert, dark eyes. Their sturdy, square-built frame carries a harsh double coat in salt-and-pepper, black, or black-and-silver. Standing 12-14 inches at the shoulder, these spirited terriers combine intelligence with a friendly, outgoing nature, making them exceptional family companions while maintaining their ancestral ratting abilities.
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.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Miniature Schnauzers are less energetic than Gordon Setters, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Miniature Schnauzers require more grooming attention compared to Gordon Setters.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Miniature Schnauzers tend to be more reserved with strangers than Gordon Setters.
- Trainability: Gordon Setters may be slightly easier to train due to their Gordon Setter's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Miniature Schnauzers 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 Miniature Schnauzer and Gordon Setter, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Miniature Schnauzer | Gordon Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Toy | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 years | 12-13 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Terrier Group | Sporting Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Miniature Schnauzer | Gordon Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 12-14 inches 30-36 cm | 23-27 inches 58-69 cm |
| Weight | 11-20 lbs 5-9 kg | 45-80 lbs 20-36 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Infrequent | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Miniature Schnauzer | Gordon Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Friendly, Smart, Obedient | Affectionate, Confident, Bold |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Miniature Schnauzer | Gordon Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Miniature Schnauzer Temperament
The Miniature Schnauzer is known for being friendly, smart, obedient, making them excellent family dogs. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Gordon Setter Temperament
The Gordon Setter is characterized by being affectionate, confident, bold, which makes them better for households without small children. 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 high energy requires substantial daily exercise and activities to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Miniature Schnauzer and Gordon Setter, 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
Miniature Schnauzer
Rating: 5/5
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Miniature Schnauzer
Rating: 3/5
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Miniature Schnauzer
Rating: 3/5
Gordon Setter
Rating: 5/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Miniature Schnauzer
Rating: 1/5
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Miniature Schnauzer
Rating: 5/5
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Miniature Schnauzer Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Miniature Schnauzers require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Miniature Schnauzers require frequent grooming. This includes brushing several times per week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is recommended.
Gordon Setter Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Gordon Setters need substantial daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and more intense activities like running, swimming, or agility training.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Gordon Setters require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Miniature Schnauzer Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Pancreatitis
- Cataracts
- Urolithiasis
- Myotonia
- Entropion
Gordon Setter Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Bloat
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
Pros & Cons
Miniature Schnauzer
Pros
- Intelligent and easily trainable
- Good with families
- Minimal shedding
- Alert watchdog
- Adaptable to various living situations
Cons
- Regular professional grooming needed
- Can be vocal
- May chase small animals
- Stubborn streak
- 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
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Miniature Schnauzer and Gordon Setter, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.