Gordon Setter Breed Information
Breed Group: Sporting
Weight: Male: 55-80; Female: 45-70 lbs
Height: Male: 24-27; Female: 23-26 inches
Color(s): black and tan
Overview
Originally developed during the 1600's in Scotland, the Gordon Setter became popular for their excellent hunting abilities. They received their name from the 4th Duke of Gordon who officially established this breed. They are the only Scottish gundog bred specifically to hunt game birds. Their endurance and stamina makes them capable of hunting in adverse weather, in water, and on land.
Character
Gordon Setters are more sturdy and robust than the other Setter breeds. They have an elegant and dignified appearance, yet possess the strength to hunt for long periods of time. Considered to be one of the most dependable, loyal and beautiful of the standing breeds, the Gordon Setter has found success not only as a hunter, but as a home companion and show dog as well.
Temperament
This breed is polite, affectionate, and cheerful. They are also sociable, friendly, and sensitive. An intensely devoted companion, the Gordon Setter is a wonderful family dog. Due to their size and tendency to be boisterous they are not recommended for homes with small children. They are reserved with strangers. The Gordon will get along well with other dogs, although may show slight aggression to those of the same sex. They must be introduced when young to cats. Gordon Setters love to be involved with their family, and may become jealous if they are not given enough attention. This bold and impressive breed is very protective of their family as well as extremely demonstrative. They will experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods of time and may become destructive and bark excessively.
Care
The Gordon Setter requires daily combing and brushing to maintain the beauty of the coat and prevent tangles and mats. Professional grooming may be necessary. Bathing or dry shampooing should only be done when absolutely needed. It is important to regularly trim their nails as well as the hair on the bottom of the feet. Gordon Setters are prone to such health issues as bloating, juvenile renal disease, hip dysplasia, lameness, thyroid deficiency, cysts, and progressive retinal atrophy.
Coat
The Gordon Setter has a beautiful coat that is of medium-length. It is silky, glossy, and soft. There is profuse feathering on the undercarriage, legs, tail, and ears. The coat color of the Gordon Setter is always black with clearly defined tan markings. They are average shedders.
Training
With high intelligence and a willingness to please, the Gordon Setter is relatively easy to train. However, this breed tends to have a mind of their own, so early socialization and obedience is crucial. They occasionally display stubbornness, and may be difficult in housebreaking. The crate method is recommended. They will not respond to harshness, but do best with firmness, fairness, love, and consistency. They excel in tracking, pointing, and hunting.
Activity
The Gordon Setter thrives on outdoor exercise. They are not recommended for apartment dwelling, as they love to roam and run free. A large securely fenced yard or country setting is preferred. Gordon Setters enjoy a wide variety of activities such as swimming, hunting, family play sessions, walking with their master, and playing ball.