What is the difference between a American Pit Bull Terrier and a English Setter?

The American Pit Bull Terrier is 30–65 lbs, 17–21 in sized while the English Setter is 45–80 lbs, 23–27 in sized. They differ in size (30–65 lbs, 17–21 in vs 45–80 lbs, 23–27 in), lifespan (12–16 years vs 12 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, American Pit Bull Terrier or English Setter?

American Pit Bull Terrier is generally good with kids. English Setter is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, American Pit Bull Terrier or English Setter?

The American Pit Bull Terrier has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the English Setter has a lifespan of 12 years.

American Pit Bull Terrier vs English Setter — Breed Comparison

About the American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier traces its roots to 19th-century England, where Bulldogs and Terriers were crossed to create a dog combining strength with agility. Standing 17–21 inches tall and weighing 30–60 pounds, the APBT is a medium-sized, solidly built dog with a broad chest and well-defined musculature. Their short, glossy coat comes in virtually every color and pattern — including blue, red, brindle, and merle — and is exceptionally easy to maintain.

Temperament & Personality

Despite their often-misunderstood reputation, American Pit Bull Terriers are among the most people-oriented breeds — they are affectionate, eager to please, and frequently described as "nanny dogs" for their gentleness with children. They are intelligent, loyal, and enthusiastic about training when given positive reinforcement. However, some individuals may exhibit dog-selectivity, and responsible ownership includes understanding their terrier-driven tenacity.

Pros

Extremely affectionate and loyal — they bond deeply with every family member
Highly trainable and eager to please, excelling in obedience and nosework
Low grooming needs with their short, easy-care coat
Athletic and energetic — outstanding companion for active lifestyles

Cons

Subject to breed-specific legislation and housing restrictions in many areas
May develop dog-selectivity, requiring careful management around other dogs
Strong and powerful — not ideal for physically frail owners
Prone to skin allergies, hip dysplasia, and congenital heart disease

These loving, misunderstood dogs deserve wonderful homes — browse adoptable Pit Bull Terriers on Puplister today.

About the English Setter

The English Setter is one of the oldest gun dog breeds — developed in England over 400 years ago to locate game birds by crouching or "setting" to indicate their position. Standing 23–27 inches tall and weighing 45–80 pounds, these graceful dogs are renowned for their beautiful feathered coat in distinctive "belton" patterns — blue belton, orange belton, tricolor, lemon belton, and liver belton. Their elegant appearance, with long, silky ears and a gently flowing coat, has earned them the title of the most beautiful sporting breed.

Temperament & Personality

English Setters are gentle, sweet-natured dogs with a calm indoor demeanor that belies their energetic field abilities. They are exceptionally good with children — patient and tolerant even with rough toddler play — and generally accepting of other dogs and household pets. Their affectionate, people-oriented nature makes them poor kennel dogs; they need to live as part of the family to thrive emotionally.

Pros

One of the gentlest sporting breeds — excellent with children of all ages and other pets
Calm and quiet indoors when given adequate outdoor exercise
Friendly toward strangers — makes a welcoming family dog without guarding tendencies
Versatile field dog that transitions beautifully from hunting companion to couch cuddler

Cons

Feathered coat requires regular grooming — brushing 3–4 times weekly to prevent tangles
Prone to elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and congenital deafness
Strong hunting instincts — will bolt after birds and small animals if not in a secure area
Can be slow to mature mentally — puppy-like behavior often persists until age 3 or beyond

Discover the beauty and gentleness of the English Setter — find one waiting for a home on Puplister.

American Pit Bull Terrier vs English Setter