Read About Gordon Setters

The Gordon Setter hails from Scotland, where it has an honorable hunting history. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Summary:

1. Size:

   Large dogs

2. Weight:

   55-65 lbs

3. Coat:

   Silky, shiny coat with feathering, especially dramatic on their tails, taking a graceful triangular form. The coat is straight or slightly wavy.

4. Shedding:

   Medium shedders

5. Temperament:

   Strong-willed, loyal, and gentle, the Gordon Setter is also affectionate and trustworthy.

6. Obedience:

   Gordon Setters are very obedient dogs.

7. Ease of Training:

   The Gordon Setter is very intelligent and willing, so can be easy to train. Some specimens can be stubborn and training needs to start at a young age to work around that.

8. Way with Children:

   Gordon Setters get along well with children.

- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Sporting Group/2002

2. Size & Weight:

   241/2-26"; 55-65 lbs

3. Coat:

   Silky, shiny coat with feathering, especially dramatic on their tails, taking a graceful triangular form. The coat is straight or slightly wavy.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   The head of a Gordon Setter is deep rather than broad, but with a nicely rounded skull. The muzzle is long, but not pointy. The nose is black and the eyes are dark oval pools. The dog should have an intelligent, friendly look.

5. Body:

   A very balanced-looking dog with strong muscles, the Gordon's shape is modified by the feathering along the bottom of his body.

6. Colors:

   Black and tan

7. Life Expectancy:

   10-12 years

8. Popularity:

   Somewhat popular, these dogs fall into the 80's in the AKC breed registry listings.

9. Habitat:

   Gordon Setters are calmer than other setters, but still prefer a country setting to run around in. They're fine with busy families, and terrific bird dogs.

- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Scotland

2. Historical Information:

   The Gordon Setter takes his name from the 4th Duke of Gordon, who named the breed in the later 18th C. The black and tan setters didn't really have a precise name before that. They made their way to the U.S. in the early 19th C.

- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Strong-willed, loyal, and gentle, the Gordon Setter is also affectionate and trustworthy.

2. Behavior:

   Gordon Setters need and love to be part of the family. They are very demonstrative and sensitive dogs.

3. Habits:

   Without enough attention, Gordon Setters can be both jealous and protective. They also can develop separation anxiety, leading to lots of barking and destructive tendencies.

- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Gordon Setters are known to be prone to PRA (progressive retinal atrophy), epilepsy, and hip dysplasia.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Gordon Setters, like all sporting dogs, need a great deal of exercise, and benefit from training and interaction with people.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Gordon Setters need daily brushing to remove tangles and burrs; their ears, nails, and feet need regular attention.

4. Travel Needs:

   All large dogs should be transported with caution.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Gordon Setters get along well with other pets and children. They do need to be taught not to chase other pets, but will learn.

- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Clear eyes, attractive black coats with tan markings, and tons of energy.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Puppies are small and explore a lot. Be sure that there is anything that your dog can get into, pull out, or chew is safe for him.