BriardVSGordon Setter

The Briard is known for being loyal, protective, intelligent, while the Gordon Setter is typically described as loyal, confident, devoted. These distinct personality traits mean each breed offers a different kind of companionship.

Both breeds share a similar playfulness level at 4/5, so you can expect comparable levels of fun and games from either one.

The Briard is a large breed standing 56–69 cm (22–27 in) tall and weighing 27–41 kg (60–90 lbs). In comparison, the Gordon Setter is a large breed at 58–69 cm (23–27 in) and 25–36 kg (55–79 lbs).

The Briard is somewhat larger, though the difference isn't dramatic. Both breeds are manageable for most owners, but the size gap does affect food portions and space requirements.

The Briard has a long coat available in black, gray, tawny, while the Gordon Setter sports a long coat in black and tan. Coat type significantly impacts grooming needs and shedding, which we cover below.

The Briard has high energy (4/5) with high exercise needs (4/5). The Gordon Setter has high energy (4/5) and very high exercise needs (5/5).

You'll need to dedicate more time to exercising the Gordon Setter, which thrives on vigorous daily activity. The Briard is less demanding in this regard and settles more easily into a relaxed routine.

For apartment dwellers, the Briard is the stronger choice with an apartment-friendliness score of 2/5, compared to the Gordon Setter's 1/5. The Gordon Setter generally does better with access to a yard or larger living space.

The Gordon Setter sheds more than the Briard — 3/5 versus 2/5. You'll want to invest in a good lint roller and vacuum if you go with the Gordon Setter.

The Briard demands more grooming attention with a score of 5/5, while the Gordon Setter is lower-maintenance at 4/5. The Briard's long coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming sessions, adding to the overall cost of ownership.

Annual grooming costs average around $400 for the Briard and $200 for the Gordon Setter. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The Briard has a lifespan of 12–14 years, while the Gordon Setter lives 12–13 years. The Briard tends to live longer on average.

Both breeds score 3/5 for health robustness, meaning they share similar overall health profiles.

Common health issues for the Briard include hip dysplasia, bloat, progressive retinal atrophy, congenital stationary night blindness. The Gordon Setter is prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

Annual vet costs average $500 for the Briard and $500 for the Gordon Setter. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

Both breeds are equally trainable at 4/5. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work well with either breed.

The Briard ranks higher in intelligence (5/5 vs 4/5), which can be both a blessing and a challenge. Smarter dogs learn commands faster but also get bored more easily and may develop behavioral issues without mental stimulation.

Regardless of which breed you choose, early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are key to raising a well-behaved dog. Puppy classes are a great investment for either breed.

In terms of raw intelligence, the Briard outranks the Gordon Setter with a score of 5/5 compared to 4/5. The Briard tends to learn new commands in fewer repetitions and shows stronger problem-solving ability in novel situations. However, higher intelligence doesn't always mean an easier dog to own — smarter breeds often demand more mental stimulation to avoid boredom-driven destructive behavior.

These breeds excel in different types of intelligence. The Briard leans toward working intelligence — excelling at tasks, following complex commands, and performing jobs they were bred for. The Gordon Setter, on the other hand, shows strong obedience intelligence — responding eagerly to training cues and handler direction.

For either breed, mental enrichment is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle feeders, training sessions, scent work, and interactive toys keep intelligent dogs engaged and prevent the boredom that leads to chewing, digging, or excessive barking.

Both breeds score 4/5 with children, making them equally suitable for families. Either breed can be a wonderful addition to a household with kids.

If you have other pets, the Gordon Setter tends to get along better with other dogs (4/5) than the Briard (3/5). Proper introductions are still important, but the Gordon Setter is naturally more sociable with canine companions.

The Gordon Setter is more welcoming to strangers (3/5), while the Briard tends to be more reserved (2/5). If you frequently have guests, the Gordon Setter's sociable nature will make entertaining easier.

The initial purchase price for a Briard ranges from $1,500–$3,000, while a Gordon Setter typically costs $1,000–$2,500. The Briard has a higher upfront cost.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,680 for the Briard and $1,420 for the Gordon Setter. The Briard is more expensive to maintain year over year, mainly due to higher food costs.

Monthly food costs run about $65 for the Briard and $60 for the Gordon Setter. Over a typical lifespan, the total cost of ownership can differ by thousands of dollars, so it's worth factoring in the long-term financial commitment.