Breed comparison

English Setter vs Sussex Spaniel

How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.

5Affection with family5
4Good with young children3
4Good with other dogs3
4Openness to strangers3
4Playfulness4
3Energy level3
4Trainability4
4Mental stimulation needs3
4Adaptability4
3Watchdog / protective3
3Barking3
3Shedding3
3Coat grooming3
3Drooling3

The biggest differences

These two breeds are close on every trait: no score differs by more than one point.

They score the same on affection with family, playfulness, energy level, trainability, adaptability, watchdog / protective.

Which one should you choose?

Pick the English Setter if you have young children, you have other dogs. Pick the Sussex Spaniel if its looks and size suit you better, since the ratings are close.

Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.

Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.

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