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Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie vs Gordon Setter

A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.

Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie breed photo

Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie

AKCFCIKC

The Anglo-Français de Petit Vénerie is a versatile and energetic hunting dog breed, known for its exceptional scent-tracking abilities and friendly disposition. Originating from France, this medium-sized hound is a cross between English and French hunting dogs, making it well-suited for tracking small game in packs.

Size

Medium

Energy

High

Lifespan

11-13 years yrs

Height

48-56 cm cm

VS
Gordon Setter breed photo

Gordon Setter

AKCFCIKC

The Gordon Setter is a large, athletic dog breed known for its striking black and tan coat and its origins as a skilled bird-hunting companion in Scotland. Renowned for their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature, Gordon Setters make excellent family pets and thrive in active households.

Size

Large

Energy

High

Lifespan

10-12 yrs

Height

N/A

Quick Comparison

TraitAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Energy
Trainability
Grooming Needs
Family Friendly
Independence

Key Characteristics

Good with Kids
Good with Dogs
Good with Cats
Hypoallergenic
Apartment Friendly
First-Time Owner OK
DetailAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
SizeMediumLarge
Energy LevelHighHigh
GroomingHighHigh
Trainabilitychallengingchallenging
Barking LevelHighHigh
Shedding LevelMediumMedium
Chew strengthModerateModerate
HousingYardYard

Owner Fit & Decision Guide

Owner Match

TraitAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Experience LevelExperiencedExperienced
First-Time Owner
Ideal OwnerActive individual or family who can provide adequate exercise and training for a Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie.Active individual or family who can provide adequate exercise and training for a Gordon Setter.

Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie Dealbreakers

  • Cannot meet 90-120 min daily exercise
  • Cannot commit to grooming needs

Gordon Setter Dealbreakers

  • Cannot meet 60-90 min daily exercise
  • Cannot commit to grooming needs

Surrender Risk

FactorAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Risk LevelMediumMedium
Primary ReasonsUnderestimated exercise needs, Behavioral challenges, Cost of careUnderestimated exercise needs, Behavioral challenges, Cost of care

Temperament & Personality

Behavior Comparison

TraitAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Prey Drive
Watchdog Ability
Stranger Friendly
Drool Level
Wanderlust

Vocalization

TraitAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Barking LevelHighHigh
Howling Tendency
Whining TendencyLowLow
Separation Vocalization
Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie bark triggers
StrangersDoorbellsOther dogs
Gordon Setter bark triggers
StrangersDoorbellsOther dogs

Safety & Reliability

TraitAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Escape Artist
Dog Park Suitable
Off-Leash Reliable
Small Animal Safe
Leash Reactivity
Resource Guarding RiskLowLow

Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie Social Traits

Velcro Dog
One Person Dog
Handling ToleranceMedium
Stranger Wariness

Moderate

With Other Dogs

Generally friendly

Gordon Setter Social Traits

Velcro Dog
One Person Dog
Handling ToleranceMedium
Stranger Wariness

Moderate

With Other Dogs

Generally friendly

Training

Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie

MethodPositive reinforcement
Challenges
you.
Tips
  • ** Positive reinforcement is the only viable path. Harsh methods will cause them to shut down or avoid you.

Gordon Setter

MethodPositive reinforcement
Challenges
Requires consistent, patient training
Tips
  • ** Positive reinforcement is the only viable path. Gordons are sensitive; harsh corrections will cause them to shut down or become defensive [cite: 4].

Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie Considerations

dealbreakerThe "Petite" Misconception

The most dangerous misunderstanding about this breed is its name. "Petite Vénerie" refers to the *game* they hunt (small game like hare, fox, and pheasant), . This is a medium-sized, athletic hound (48–56 cm tall) with significant stamina, not a lap dog.

challengeInescapable Wanderlust

This breed scores a 5/5 on wanderlust. If they catch a scent, they will follow it regardless of traffic, fences, or your commands. They cannot be trusted off-leash in unfenced areas.

challengeSeparation Distress

Bred to live and work in packs, these dogs suffer profound isolation distress if left alone. They are not solitary creatures; a single Anglo-Français left in an apartment while the owner works 9-5 will likely become destructive and vocal.

challengeThe "Voice"

They do not just bark; they bay. This deep, carrying sound is music to a hunter's ears but a nightmare for neighbors. They are vocal dogs that communicate excitement and frustration loudly.

Gordon Setter Considerations

challengeSeparation Anxiety

This is the primary behavioral failure mode for the breed. Gordon Setters are intensely bonded "velcro" dogs. They do not tolerate isolation well. Left alone for standard workdays (8+ hours) without intervention, they frequently develop severe distress behaviors, including destructive chewing, howling, and self-mutilation.

challengeStubborn Independence

Unlike the eager-to-please Labrador, the Gordon was bred to work independently of the hunter on the moors. This translates to a dog that will often consider a command, evaluate its merit, and potentially decline. They require a handler who understands how to motivate a thinking dog, not just a compliant one.

challengeLate Maturation

Owners often joke that Gordons remain puppies until they are three years old. This "Peter Pan" syndrome means you are signing up for a prolonged adolescence characterized by high energy, testing boundaries, and potential destructiveness long after other breeds have settled down.

challengeStranger Wariness

While affectionate with their inner circle, Gordons are naturally aloof with strangers. Without extensive early socialization, this reserve can turn into fear-based reactivity or excessive territorial barking. They are watchdogs by nature, not the "everyone is my best friend" type.

Multi-Species Compatibility

SpeciesAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
With CatsCaution - may chaseCaution - may chase
Small MammalsSupervision requiredSupervision required
Birds / ReptilesCaution advisedCaution advised

Advanced Behavior

TraitAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Predatory Sequence RiskMediumMedium
BiddabilityLowLow
Noise SensitivityLowLow
Territorial Barking
Same-Sex Aggression Onset18 months18 months

First Year & Life Stages

First Year Challenges

ChallengeAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Puppy Difficulty
Destructive Phase6-186-18
House TrainingChallengingChallenging
Crate TrainingMediumMedium
Adolescent Regression

Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie: Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie puppies require consistent training and patience.

Gordon Setter: Gordon Setter puppies require consistent training and patience.

Life Stages Timeline

StageAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Puppy Phase12 months12 months
Adolescence6-186-18
Adult Years2-82-8
Senior Onset~8 years~8 years
Peak Energy Age1-3 years1-3 years

Size & Physical Characteristics

Physical Stats

MeasurementAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Height48-56 cm cmN/A
WeightNot enough data yetNot enough data yet
Size CategoryMediumLarge
Lifespan

11–13 years

10–12 years

Litter Size4-84-8

Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie Coat

Type double
Length Medium
Texture straight
Colors
Various

Gordon Setter Coat

Type double
Length Medium
Texture straight
Colors
Various

Lineage & Origin

DetailAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Original PurposeThe breed was synthesized in France (specifically the 1950s, standardized in 1978) to create a "mediDeveloped in Scotland in the 17th century, specifically at Gordon Castle by the Fourth Duke of Gordo
OriginN/AN/A

Breeding Details

DetailAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
C-Section RateVariesVaries
Whelping DifficultyMediumMedium
Puppy Mortality RateLowLow

Physical Risks

RiskAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Bloat / GDV RiskLowLow
Slippery Floor RiskLowLow
Min Fence Height1.5m1.5m
Dig / Escape RiskLowLow

Health & Common Conditions

Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie Health Issues

Otitis ExternaEar Infections
Hip Dysplasia15-20% prevalence
Field Injurieslacerations, torn nails, tail injuries
Gastric Dilatation-VolvulusBloat

Gordon Setter Health Issues

Hip Dysplasia19.3%
Elbow Dysplasia11-19%
Progressive Retinal AtrophyPRA-rcd4, carrier rate 50%
Gastric Dilatation-VolvulusBloat, high risk
Hypothyroidism

Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie Suggested Tests

  • Primary Lens Luxation (PLL)
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Gordon Setter Suggested Tests

  • PRA-rcd4 (Genetic Test)
  • Cerebellar Degeneration (CCA) (Genetic Test)
  • OFA Hip/Elbow evaluations
  • Gastropexy (surgical prevention for Bloat)

Health Risk Overview

Risk FactorAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Cancer RiskMediumMedium
Cardiac RiskLowLow
Neurological RiskLowLow
CCL/ACL Tear RiskLowLow
Vet Burden TierMediumMedium

Sensitivities & Allergies

SensitivityAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Skin Allergies
Environmental Allergies
Stomach SensitivityLowLow
Food Allergies

Health Maintenance

Care ItemAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Nail Growth RateNormalNormal
Eye Care NeedsLowLow
Anal Gland IssuesOccasionalOccasional

Senior Care & Aging

Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie Senior Care

Common Senior Issues

  • Arthritis
  • Vision decline
  • Cognitive changes
Mobility Aid LikelihoodMedium
QoL Decline Age~10 years
End of Life ComplexityMedium

Senior care varies by individual health.

Gordon Setter Senior Care

Common Senior Issues

  • Arthritis
  • Vision decline
  • Cognitive changes
Mobility Aid LikelihoodMedium
QoL Decline Age~10 years
End of Life ComplexityMedium

Senior care varies by individual health.

Grooming & Care

Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie

high maintenance
Coat Typedouble
Coat Lengthmedium
Coat Texturestraight
Shedding LevelMedium
Seasonal SheddingMedium
Ear Cleaningweekly
Dental RiskMedium
Obesity Prone
Winter Gear Needed
Summer Restrictions
Paw Protection
Odor LevelModerate
Tactile FeelVaries by coat type
Colors
Various

Gordon Setter

high maintenance
Coat Typedouble
Coat Lengthmedium
Coat Texturestraight
Shedding LevelMedium
Seasonal SheddingMedium
Ear Cleaningweekly
Dental RiskMedium
Obesity Prone
Winter Gear Needed
Summer Restrictions
Paw Protection
Odor LevelModerate
Tactile FeelVaries by coat type
Colors
Various

Lifestyle Compatibility

Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie Daily Life

Exercise Needs30 min/day
Alone TimeUp to 4h
Mental StimulationHigh
ApartmentChallenging - needs space
Work from HomeSuitable with adequate exercise
Weekend WarriorSuitable
HousingYard
Barking LevelHigh
First-Time Owner
Exercise Types
WalkingPlayTraining
NighttimeSleeps well when exercised
Food MotivationMedium

Gordon Setter Daily Life

Exercise Needs60-90 min/day
Alone TimeUp to 4h
Mental StimulationHigh
ApartmentChallenging - needs space
Work from HomeSuitable with adequate exercise
Weekend WarriorSuitable
HousingYard
Barking LevelHigh
First-Time Owner
Exercise Types
WalkingPlayTraining
NighttimeSleeps well when exercised
Food MotivationMedium

Housing & Legal Restrictions

RestrictionAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
BSL Restricted
Common Rental Ban
Insurance Blacklist
Weight CategoryUnder 50lbsUnder 50lbs

Climate Tolerance

ClimateAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Heat Tolerance
Cold Tolerance
Water AffinityMediumMedium

Travel Compatibility

ActivityAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Car TravelGoodGood
Camping
Beach Friendly
Hiking Rating
Cabin Flight Eligible
Hotel Friendly Size

Niche Suitability

RoleAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Service DogLowLow
Therapy DogLowLow
Deep Pressure Therapy
Canicross / Bikejoring
Apartment Adaptable
Tactile / Sensory Friendly
Livestock Guardian
Medical AlertLowLow

Costs & Expenses

Upfront Costs

CostAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Purchase PriceN/AN/A
Initial Cost Range$1,000–$2,500$1,000–$2,500
Cost Tier

Ongoing Costs

CostAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Monthly Range$80–$160$140–$220
Yearly Range$960–$1,920$1,680–$2,640
Food / MonthN/A$80-120
Insurance / MonthN/A$60-100
Grooming / SessionN/A$80-120
Vet Routine / Year$200-400$300-500
Monthly Cost Tier

Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie Lifetime Cost

N/A

Gordon Setter Lifetime Cost

N/A

Quirks & Fun Facts

Daily Quirks

QuirkAnglo-Français de Petite VénerieGordon Setter
Snoring
FlatulenceOccasionalOccasional
Slobber LevelLowLow
Smell When WetModerateModerate
Zoomies FrequencyOccasionalOccasional
Counter Surfing
Digging TendencyLowLow

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Anglo-Français de Petite Véneries can make good family dogs with proper training and socialization. They form strong bonds with their family members.
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Compare with Other Breeds

Based on comprehensive breed research data.

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