Portuguese Pointer 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.
Portuguese Pointer
Foundation Stock Service
Gordon Setter
Sporting Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Portuguese Pointer Overview
Portuguese Pointers showcase a noble bearing with their athletic build and distinctive tan coat. Medium-sized with well-proportioned features, they exhibit strong hunting instincts through their alert expression and muscular frame. Their intelligent eyes and expressive face reflect their keen hunting heritage, while their balanced structure combines elegance with functionality.
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: Portuguese Pointers are less energetic than Gordon Setters, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Portuguese Pointers require less grooming attention compared to Gordon Setters.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Portuguese Pointers tend to be more outgoing 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: Gordon Setters adapt better to apartment living, while Portuguese Pointers typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Portuguese Pointer and Gordon Setter, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Portuguese Pointer | Gordon Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 14-14 years | 12-13 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Foundation Stock Service | Sporting Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Portuguese Pointer | Gordon Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 21-22 inches 52-56 cm | 23-27 inches 58-69 cm |
| Weight | 35-59 lbs 16-27 kg | 45-80 lbs 20-36 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Occasional | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Portuguese Pointer | Gordon Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Affectionate, Smart, Energetic | Affectionate, Confident, Bold |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Portuguese Pointer | Gordon Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Portuguese Pointer Temperament
The Portuguese Pointer is known for being affectionate, smart, energetic, making them excellent family dogs. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They're typically friendly with strangers, making them poor guard dogs but excellent social companions. With their high energy levels, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
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 Portuguese Pointer 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
Portuguese Pointer
Rating: 5/5
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Portuguese Pointer
Rating: 3/5
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Portuguese Pointer
Rating: 4/5
Gordon Setter
Rating: 5/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Portuguese Pointer
Rating: 1/5
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Portuguese Pointer
Rating: 2/5
Gordon Setter
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Portuguese Pointer Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Portuguese Pointers 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, Portuguese Pointers require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
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
Portuguese Pointer Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Ear Infections
- Bloat
- Allergies
Gordon Setter Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Bloat
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
Pros & Cons
Portuguese Pointer
Pros
- Excellent hunting abilities
- Highly trainable
- Affectionate with family
- Athletic and agile
Cons
- High exercise needs
- May be too energetic for apartments
- Requires consistent training
- Can be stubborn
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 Portuguese Pointer and Gordon Setter, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.