Description

The Gordon Setter differs from the English and Irish setters in that it has a more robust structure, a more massive head, and more fully developed lips, as well as by the color of it silky, wavy coat. It is the only black & tan setter. It is a tall, slender dog with a lovely feathered coat. The head is long, chiseled and massive, with a very pronounced stop and a large-nostrilled black nose. The long muzzle is squared-off, not pointed and should be approximately the same length from nose to stop as the skull from stop to occiput. The teeth may meet in a scissors or level bite, but a scissors bite is preferred. The long, slightly pointed ears hang flat beside that head. The oval eyes are dark brown. The topline slopes gently downward from the withers. The deep chest should reach to the elbows, but should not be too broad. The well-feathered tail is thick at the root, tapering to a fine point. The front legs should be large-boned and straight. The feet should be cat-like, with arched toes and well furnished with hair. Dewclaws may be removed. The soft, glossy coat may be straight or slightly wavy, with profuse feathering on the legs, underside, ears and tail. The tail feathering should create a triangular silhouette, with the hair gradually growing shorter as the tail tapers. The color should always be black with clearly differentiated tan markings. The location of the marking is important and clearly specified in the official standard.

Origin

Temperament

The Gordon Setter is distinguished both for its loyalty and obedience. A devoted, polite, gentle and sensible dog. They are pleasant companions that are excellent with children. Intelligent and willing, it is a methodical hunter who seldom errs about a scent. Courageous, cheerful and affectionate. This breed needs lots of exercise or it may become hyperactive. Very loyal to the family, but tends to be reserved with strangers. It may become jealous of other pets, but is generally good with them. This breed likes to roam, so it is a good idea to have a fenced-in yard. Puppies may seem somewhat uncoordinated. Field lines are often smaller and lighter than show lines, but both make good pets. These dogs often have minds of their own, so train early before bad habits set in. Training these dogs is certainly not difficult, provided you take into account that it can be stubborn on occasion. They call for a handler who is both consistent and loving in approach. This dog should be introduced to all situations (people, animals and things) as a young pup to produce a well-balanced dog. A Gordon Setter who has been introduced as a puppy to cats will get along well with them. If strangers visit they adopt a wait-and-see attitude. In general they get along well with other dogs and with children because they are friendly to everyone.

Height

Height: dogs 24-27 inches (61-69 cm.) Bitches 23-26 inches (58-66 cm.)

Weight

Weight: dogs 55-80 pounds (25-36 kg.) Bitches 45-70 pounds (20-32 kg.)

Known Health Problems

Usually in excellent health, but some are prone to hip dysplasia and eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. These dogs are prone to bloat and should be fed two or three small meals a day rather than one big one. Living conditions The Gordon Setter is not recommended for apartment life. It is relatively inactive indoors (if a Gordon Setter gets enough outdoor activity it will be calm when it is indoors) and does best with at least a large, safely fenced yard where it can run free. They like to roam, so a good fence around your property is essential. Exercise restless and difficult to manage. In addition, they will also enjoy running free in the safety of a fenced yard. Life Expectancy About 10-12 years. Grooming Regular combing and brushing of the soft, flat, medium-length coat is all that is required to keep it in excellent condition. It is important to check for burrs and tangles, and to give extra care when the dog is shedding its coat. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. Trim the hair on the bottom of the feet and keep the nails clipped. This breed is an average shedder. Origin The Gordon Setter was originally developed in Scotland in the 1600's and was later made popular by Duke Alexander the 4th of Gordon in the late 1700's. This breed has an outstanding sense of smell and makes a fine bird dog, pointing when it finds a bird scent and then retrieving the felled bird to hand. The Gordon Setter is not fast compared with other hunting dogs, but he has good stamina and can hunt in adverse weather on both land and water. It is one of the most conscientious and intelligent of the standing breeds. The Gordon Setter is a methodical, dependable hunter, and a fine one-man shooting dog. The beautiful and loyal Gordon Setter has also achieved success as a show dog and home companion. Among the Gordon's good qualities are excellent health and its adaptability to guarding and to family life. Some of the Gordon Setter's talents include guarding, watchdogging, tracking, pointing, and hunting. Group Gun Dog, AKC Sporting

Conditions for Living

Exercise Requirments

Life Expectancy

Grooming

Group