Gordon Setter
Scotland's setting dog - a handsome, black and tan gundog that combines power, stamina and unwavering loyalty.
Personality Traits
History and Origins
The Gordon Setter was developed at Gordon Castle in the Scottish Highlands by the 4th Duke of Gordon in the late 18th century. The duke selected for dogs that were methodical, thorough hunters rather than fast, flashy ones. The result was a heavier, more powerful setter that worked closer to the gun and was ideally suited to the rough terrain and demanding conditions of the Scottish moors.
The Gordon is the largest and heaviest of the three setter breeds (Irish, English and Gordon). While less fashionable than its relatives, the Gordon has a loyal following among those who value its devotion, intelligence and striking black and tan colouring.
Appearance
The Gordon Setter stands 62-66 cm at the shoulder and weighs 25-36 kg. The coat is soft, shining and silky, with feathering on the ears, chest, belly, legs and tail. The colour is always coal black with rich tan markings on the muzzle, eyebrows, chest, legs and under the tail. The head is broad with a defined stop and intelligent, dark brown eyes. The overall build is powerful and athletic, heavier than the other setter breeds.
Is a Gordon Setter Right for You?
Gordon Setters suit active, experienced owners who appreciate a loyal, devoted companion. They are one-family dogs that bond deeply and can be aloof with strangers. They need significant exercise and their large size requires space. They are not ideal for first-time owners due to their size, exercise needs and occasional stubbornness.
They are excellent dogs for active households that enjoy countryside pursuits, hiking and running. Their loyalty and protective nature make them good family dogs for experienced owners.
Living with a Gordon Setter
Gordons are devoted, loyal companions that take their family bonds seriously. They can be protective of their people without being aggressive. They mature slowly, often retaining puppy-like behaviour until three or four years old. They are affectionate and sometimes demanding of attention from their family.
They are excellent with children in their own family but can be reserved with other people's children. Their large size and enthusiastic greetings mean interactions with small children should be supervised. They are generally good with other dogs but can be assertive.
Training Tips
- Be patient - Gordons mature slowly and training takes time to consolidate
- Provide at least one and a half hours of vigorous exercise daily
- Socialise extensively to prevent excessive wariness with strangers
- Use positive, patient training methods - they can be sensitive to harsh correction
- Commit to regular coat grooming to prevent matting
Temperament
Gordon Setters are loyal, devoted and intelligent. They are one-family dogs that bond deeply with their owners and can be wary of strangers. They are among the most protective of the sporting breeds, with a natural alertness that distinguishes them from the more universally friendly setters.
They are bold, confident dogs with an independent streak. They are affectionate with their family and enjoy physical closeness. They can be stubborn about training but are intelligent and capable when motivated.
Exercise Needs
At least one and a half hours of vigorous exercise daily. Gordon Setters are powerful, athletic dogs that need significant physical activity. They excel at hiking, running, field work and retrieving. They have excellent stamina and can maintain activity levels that exhaust many other breeds. Mental stimulation through training, scent work and games complements physical exercise. Insufficient exercise leads to restlessness and behavioural problems.
Grooming
The silky coat needs brushing three to four times a week to prevent matting, particularly the feathering on ears, chest and legs. They shed moderately with seasonal increases. Professional grooming every 8-12 weeks tidies the coat and maintains the breed's handsome appearance. The ears need regular cleaning as the heavy ear leather traps moisture. Standard dental and nail care applies.
Health
Gordon Setters can be affected by hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA-rcd4) for which a DNA test exists, and bloat/GDV. Hypothyroidism occurs at higher rates than average. Cerebellar abiotrophy is a rare neurological condition in the breed. The breed club recommends hip scoring, elbow scoring, eye testing and PRA DNA testing for all breeding dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Gordon Setters good family dogs?
Yes, for active, experienced families. They are loyal, protective and good with children. They need significant exercise and space, and their slow maturity requires patience.
How are Gordons different from Irish Setters?
Gordons are heavier, more powerful and more reserved than Irish Setters. They are one-family dogs rather than universally friendly, and they are generally calmer and more focused in the field.
Do Gordon Setters need a lot of exercise?
Yes, they are high-energy dogs that need at least 90 minutes of vigorous exercise daily. They are not suited to sedentary lifestyles.
Are Gordons protective?
More so than other setters. They are naturally alert and can be protective of their family, though they are not guard dogs. They are simply more cautious with strangers than Irish or English Setters.
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