Spanish Water Dog vs Gordon Setter
Breed Compatibility
90% Compatible
Energy Level
Spanish Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Gordon Setter: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Spanish Water Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Gordon Setter: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Spanish Water Dog: Specialty/Professional1.0
Gordon Setter: Weekly Brushing0.4
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Spanish Water Dog4/5
Gordon Setter3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Gordon Setter3/5
Good with Strangers
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Gordon Setter3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Spanish Water Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
CHD: Congenital heart defects possible
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid function issues
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder risk
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
Spanish Water Dog
Pros
Highly trainable
Excellent swimming ability
Low shedding coat
Versatile working dog
Cons
High grooming maintenance
Requires extensive exercise
Can be reserved with strangers
Strong herding instincts
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
Spanish Water Dog Fun Fact
Their distinctive curly coat naturally forms cords if left ungroomed, creating a unique appearance similar to dreadlocks.
Gordon Setter Fun Fact
Gordon Setters were once known as 'Black and Tan Setters' before being renamed after the Duke of Gordon.
Heritage & Purpose
Spanish Water Dog
Origin:
Developed along Spain's coastal regions during the Middle Ages, these dogs excelled in herding livestock and retrieving from water, serving as versatile 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
Spanish Water Dog
Professional grooming needed regularly. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Gordon Setter
Regular grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Health screening for common breed issues is essential.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
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