English Setter vs Giant Schnauzer
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
English Setter
Also known as: Laverack Setter, Llewellin Setter
The English Setter is a graceful and elegant gun dog known for its distinctive feathered coat and gentle demeanor. Often called the 'gentleman of the dog world,' they combine athletic prowess with a sweet, affectionate temperament that makes them exceptional family companions for active households.
Large
High
11-13 yrs
61-69 cm
Giant Schnauzer
Also known as: Riesenschnauzer, Munich Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer is a powerful and intelligent large dog breed known for its imposing presence, distinctive beard, and loyal temperament. Originating from Germany, this is the largest of the three Schnauzer breeds and was originally bred for driving cattle and guarding. They are celebrated for their courage, trainability, and protective nature.
Extra Large
High
10-12 yrs
60-70 cm
35-47 kg
Quick Comparison
| Trait | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Detail | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Extra Large |
| Energy Level | High | High |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | Moderate | challenging |
| Barking Level | Medium | High |
| Shedding Level | High | Low |
| Chew strength | Moderate | N/A |
| Housing | Yard | Yard |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Intermediate | Advanced |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Hikers, runners, hunters, or active families with a large fenced yard. Someone who works from home or can provide companionship. Understanding they are getting a hunting dog, not a couch ornament. | Experienced dog owner who understands canine body language and drive theory. Active lifestyle with time for 2+ hours of daily engagement. Confident personality that can be firm and consistent. Has secure property with 6ft fence. Works from home or can provide midday activity. No other dogs of same sex in household. |
English Setter Dealbreakers
- No fenced yard - dealing with a Setter without secure fencing is a part-time job
- Work long hours away from home - separation anxiety is significant
- Cannot commit to 60-90 min daily exercise
- Fastidious housekeepers - mud, hair, and water drips are part of the package
Giant Schnauzer Dealbreakers
- First-time dog owner
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Passive personality - cannot firmly enforce rules
- Live in rental housing (breed bans and size limits)
- Have other dogs of the same sex
Surrender Risk
| Factor | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Medium | High |
| Primary Reasons | Escaping - 'He won't stay in the yard', Too much energy for owner's lifestyle, Separation anxiety and barking when left alone | Bit me/my child/my other dog, Owner failed to set boundaries, 90lb dog now challenges for control, Same-sex aggression emerged at maturity, Cannot afford insurance or housing |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | Medium | High |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | Medium | Low |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | High |
English Setter Social Traits
Low
Low - generally excellent with other dogs and enjoy pack life. Same-sex aggression is rare.
Giant Schnauzer Social Traits
Very High
Very selective - same-sex aggression common, best as only dog or with submissive opposite-sex dog
Training
English Setter
- They are 'soft' dogs - harsh corrections or yelling will cause them to shut down or become fearful
- Recall training must be proofed with high distractions - a long line is recommended until reliability is 100%
- Use high-value treats to compete with bird distractions
Giant Schnauzer
- They need 'No' to mean 'No' - not permissive training
- Be a confident leader - if you are passive, they will assume leadership
- They are intelligent problem solvers who will exploit inconsistency
- Socialization is a race against the clock before suspicion sets in
English Setter Considerations
English Setters are intensely social 'velcro' dogs that bond deeply with their humans. Left alone for 8+ hours without conditioning or companionship, they frequently develop severe anxiety manifesting as destructive chewing, house soiling, and persistent howling.
Their predatory drive is all-consuming. On walks, they may become deaf to commands if they catch a scent or spot a bird. Off-leash reliability in unfenced areas is nearly impossible for the average owner.
Bored or under-exercised Setters are notorious for testing perimeter security. Their athleticism allows them to jump moderate fences, and digging instincts can compromise fence lines if they see prey on the other side.
Giant Schnauzer Considerations
Male Giant Schnauzers are notoriously intolerant of other males, and females can be equally combative. This often emerges at sexual maturity (18-24 months), turning a peaceful puppy household into a war zone. Many owners end up 'crate and rotate' (permanent separation).
Unlike eager-to-please breeds, Giant Schnauzers constantly ask 'Why should I?' They test boundaries relentlessly. Passive or inconsistent owners will find themselves with a dog that assumes leadership, leading to resource guarding and territorial aggression.
Their heritage involves vermin control and cattle driving. The 'kill bite' part of the predatory sequence is often intact. Cats, rabbits, and small dogs are at significant risk.
Giant Schnauzers appear on many insurance 'dangerous dog' lists. Premiums may be 2-3x higher than average, or coverage denied entirely. Check insurance BEFORE getting this dog.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Risky - while some can live with cats if raised together, the instinct to chase is hardwired. Generally not safe. | High risk - only possible with strict supervision and early socialization, never guaranteed |
| Small Mammals | Caution required - rabbits and hamsters trigger the chase instinct. Supervision mandatory. | Dangerous - strong prey drive |
| Birds / Reptiles | Unsafe - birds are their ancestral prey. Will fixate on bird cages causing stress to both animals. | Unsafe - predatory drive intact |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Full |
| Biddability | High | Medium |
| Noise Sensitivity | Low | Low |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | 18 months |
English Setter: Predatory sequence is Orient -> Eye -> Stalk -> Chase -> Point. The 'Grab-Bite' and 'Kill-Bite' are usually inhibited, meaning they are less dangerous to prey than terriers, but the chase drive is just as strong. They want to please but are easily distracted by birds.
Giant Schnauzer: The predatory sequence (Eye->Stalk->Chase->Grab->Kill) is often intact from their vermin control heritage. They are true guard dogs who will physically confront threats - not just alert bark. They require an owner who can call them off immediately. Independent worker but cooperative with established handler.
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 7-12 | 6-24 |
| House Training | Medium | Moderate |
| Crate Training | High | Medium |
| Adolescent Regression |
English Setter: Setter puppies combine high energy with a distractible hunting brain. House training can be slower than average (sensitive to surface textures). Very mouthy and prone to chewing furniture if bored. Around 8-10 months, they often 'forget' recall - this is when they're most likely to run off after a bird.
Giant Schnauzer: Unlike friendly Labs, Giant Schnauzer puppies combine sharp puppy teeth with a desire to dominate. They challenge handling early. Socialization is a race against the clock before their suspicion of strangers sets in. They are 'beavers' that will dismantle furniture if bored.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 12 months | 18 months |
| Adolescence | 12-24 | 18-36 |
| Adult Years | 2-8 | 3-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~9 years | ~9 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-3 years | 2-5 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 61-69 cm | 60-70 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Large | Extra Large |
| Lifespan | 11–13 years | 10–12 years |
| Litter Size | 6-8 | 5-9 |
English Setter Coat
Giant Schnauzer Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Locating and setting (pointing) game birds on English moors for net and gun hunters | Cattle driving and guarding butcher shops/breweries |
| Origin | England, 15th-17th century | Bavarian Alps, Germany |
Breeding Details
| Detail | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Low | Low |
| Whelping Difficulty | Easy | Easy |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | High | High |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Medium | Medium |
| Min Fence Height | 1.5m | 1.8m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Medium | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
English Setter Health Issues
Giant Schnauzer Health Issues
English Setter Suggested Tests
- BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) test for deafness
- Hip Evaluation (OFA or PennHIP)
- Thyroid Evaluation
- Elbow Evaluation
Giant Schnauzer Suggested Tests
- Hip Dysplasia (OFA)
- Thyroid
- Eyes (CERF)
- DCM (Heart)
- DLA diversity
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Medium | High |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | Medium |
| Neurological Risk | Low | Medium |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Medium | Medium |
| Vet Burden Tier | Medium | High |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Low | Low |
| Food Allergies | Grain sensitivities possible | Grain sensitivities |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Fast |
| Eye Care Needs | Low | Low |
| Anal Gland Issues | Rare | Rare |
Senior Care & Aging
English Setter Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis/joint stiffness
- Cancer (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma)
- Hearing loss
- Mobility issues
Quality of life often remains good until late. Cancer and mobility issues are the common end-of-life factors. Some reach 14-15 years.
Giant Schnauzer Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Cancer (especially toe cancer)
- Hip dysplasia progression
- Hypothyroidism
- Cognitive decline
Rapid decline can occur in senior years. Cancer is the primary concern and often the limiting factor on lifespan. Any broken nail or toe swelling must be treated as potential emergency.
Grooming & Care
English Setter
high maintenanceGiant Schnauzer
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
English Setter Daily Life
Giant Schnauzer Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Over 50lbs | Over 50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | High | Medium |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Low | Medium |
| Therapy Dog | Medium | Low |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Medium |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,000-1,500 | $2,500-3,500 |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,300–$2,000 | $2,500–$3,500 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $180–$275 | $200–$350 |
| Yearly Range | $2,160–$3,300 | $3,000–$4,500 |
| Food / Month | $75-125 | $80-120 |
| Insurance / Month | $40-70 | $60-100 |
| Grooming / Session | $65-100 | $100-200 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $600-960 | $500-1,000 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
English Setter Lifetime Cost
$25,000-45,000
Giant Schnauzer Lifetime Cost
$35,000-60,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | English Setter | Giant Schnauzer |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Rare | Occasional |
| Slobber Level | Moderate | Light |
| Smell When Wet | Strong | Mild |
| Zoomies Frequency | Daily | Daily |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Medium | Low |
English Setter Quirks
Setter Sprawl
Famous for sleeping in bizarre, contorted positions on furniture
Water Dripper
Loose 'flews' (lips) that drip water after drinking and leave slime on your pants after a nudge
Velcro Attachment
Will follow you to the bathroom - they need to be integrated into family life, not left as backyard dogs
The Off Switch
Indoors, a well-exercised Setter is a 'rug dog' - calm, quiet, and happy to sleep. Not hyperactive pacers like some herding breeds.
Giant Schnauzer Quirks
The Soggy Beard
The beard is a sponge - you will have water trails on your floor and wet spots on your lap after every drink.
Schnauzer Talk
They are vocal communicators - grumbling, woo-wooing, and groaning to express themselves.
Bathroom Shadow
You will never be alone again. If you close a door, they will wait on the other side. They need to be with their handler to feel secure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Turn your dog into a brand deal.
Pet brands are looking for authentic creators — not celebrities. If you own a English Setter or Giant Schnauzer, you can get free products, gear, and exclusive perks just for sharing your dog's life on Instagram.
No followers minimum · Free to join
Compare with Other Breeds
Compare English Setter with:
Compare Giant Schnauzer with:
Based on comprehensive breed research data.