Gordon Setter vs Perdiguero de Burgos

Choosing between Gordon Setter and Perdiguero de Burgos? These two are closely matched on size and energy, so your decision comes down to the finer points — grooming, shedding, trainability and how each fits your household. Below we break down exactly how the two breeds compare on the things that shape daily life with a dog, so you can see which one is the better fit for your home, family and routine.

Gordon Setter vs Perdiguero de Burgos: full comparison

TraitGordon SetterPerdiguero de Burgos
SizeLargeLarge
Energy levelHighHigh
TrainabilityMediumMedium
FriendlinessHighHigh
Good with childrenHighHigh
Grooming needsVery HighLow
SheddingHighMedium
BarkingLowLow
ProtectivenessMediumMedium
AdaptabilityMediumMedium
Typical lifespan12 years12 years
HypoallergenicNoNo

Key differences at a glance

Size and living space

The Gordon Setter is a large dog that is happiest with space indoors and regular access to a yard. By comparison, the Perdiguero de Burgos is a large dog that is happiest with space indoors and regular access to a yard. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Gordon Setter needs real exercise every single day to stay balanced. The Perdiguero de Burgos needs real exercise every single day to stay balanced. Their exercise needs are broadly the same, so this is unlikely to be a deciding factor.

Grooming and shedding

The Gordon Setter is a serious grooming commitment, with daily brushing and regular salon visits and sheds quite a lot — expect fur on furniture and clothes. The Perdiguero de Burgos asks for a light brush once or twice a week and sheds a moderate amount, with heavier seasonal moults. If low upkeep matters to you, factor this in — the difference adds up over a dog's lifetime.

Temperament, training and family life

The Gordon Setter trains reasonably well with regular positive sessions, is generally quiet, barking only occasionally and is reliably good with children and a solid family choice. The Perdiguero de Burgos trains reasonably well with regular positive sessions, is generally quiet, barking only occasionally and is reliably good with children and a solid family choice. On guarding instinct, Gordon Setter will alert you to visitors but is not an aggressive guardian, whereas Perdiguero de Burgos will alert you to visitors but is not an aggressive guardian.

Which is better for…

Which should you choose?

Choose the Gordon Setter if you simply prefer the breed — it's very closely matched with the Perdiguero de Burgos on temperament, size and care.

Choose the Perdiguero de Burgos if you prefer lower grooming upkeep or you want less shedding around the home.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Gordon Setter or the Perdiguero de Burgos better for families with children?
Both the Gordon Setter and the Perdiguero de Burgos are considered good with children when properly socialized and supervised.
Which sheds more, the Gordon Setter or the Perdiguero de Burgos?
The Gordon Setter sheds more than the Perdiguero de Burgos. If shedding is a concern, the Perdiguero de Burgos is the lower-maintenance choice.
Which is easier to train, the Gordon Setter or the Perdiguero de Burgos?
Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.
Is Gordon Setter or Perdiguero de Burgos bigger?
Gordon Setter and Perdiguero de Burgos are a similar size (Large).
Which barks more, Gordon Setter or Perdiguero de Burgos?
Both bark a similar amount (low).
Which is better for apartment living, Gordon Setter or Perdiguero de Burgos?
For apartment or apartment living, Gordon Setter and Perdiguero de Burgos are an even match — either can work well.

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