Gordon Setter
Loving And Intelligent Dog

The Gordon Setter, also referred to as the black and tan bird dog, was developed by the Duke of Gordon in Scotland during the late eighteenth century, although various other setters had been in existence since the 17th century.

Its lineage is believed to include the Collie, Bloodhound, plus other setters and possibly the Spaniel.

Not as fast as some of the other setters, the Gordon makes up for this by his renowned skills in the field, excellent stamina and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions.

The Gordon is a handsome dog and being the largest of the setters has a more sturdy appearance. With a well-balanced structure and a beautiful shiny coat, he is a very pleasant looking dog.

Appearance, Coat And Care

Height: 23-27 inches
Weight: 45-80 lbs.
Color variations: Black with chestnut or mahogany markings

Chris Christensen Boar and Nylon Bristle Brush
Lightweight Beechwood Handle

The Gordon Setter dog has a coat of medium length with significant feathering around the ears, undercarriage, legs and tail.

Regular brushing, ideally with a high quality brush, is needed to keep the sleek coat in good condition and free of debris and tangles. Pay special attention to areas where the coat is feathered as these are more likely to develop mats. 

Bathing should be done about once a month with a professional grade shampoo and conditioner.

Also, as with most long-eared dogs, the ears will be healthier if careful cleaning of the outer ear - the part you can see, no deep probing - is done as part of his regular grooming routine along with trimming of excess hair.

Characteristics of the Gordon Setter

The Gordon Setter is noted for his sensitive loving nature, cheerfulness and high intelligence. He is a more quiet dog in the home with strong loyalty to family, but wisely cautious with other people until sufficiently acquainted with them.

As with most intelligent dogs, early socialization and training is recommended so that he becomes well aware of the who's the leader. The Gordon will train easily with a loving and consistent approach - he is eager to please and has an excellent memory for retaining instruction.

Although he has roots as a working dog, he makes a great, as well as protective, family companion. He prefers being around the family and does not enjoy being left alone for long periods of time.

If you are interested in acquiring a puppy or Rescue, here are two links with more information:

Gordon Setter Club of America
Gordon Setter Rescue

Health Notes

Gordon Setters have a lifespan of up to fourteen years if they are fed a nutritious diet and receive good care.

The diseases that have been linked to this breed include:

• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) which is linked to a recessive gene mutation. A DNA test is now available to detect one form of its presence in affected dogs, providing valuable information to breeders.

• Types of Cancer: including osteosarcoma, lymphoma, hemangiosarcoma and mammary tumors.

• Hip and elbow dysplasia affecting joint development.

• Lastly, because the Gordon is a deep-chested dog breed, it is can be vulnerable to Bloat (Gastric Dilation Volvulus) which is a life threatening condition requiring emergency attention.

The National Breed Club recommends that breeders have these health tests carried out:

• Hip Evaluation
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Rod-Cone Dysplasia 4 (PRA-rcd4) - DNA Test
• CHIC DNA Repository
• Elbow Evaluation
• Ophthalmologist Evaluation

With overall good care, high quality dog food, adequate exercise and the benefit of regular veterinary check-ups, pet parents can look forward to enjoying their setter for up to 13 years.

How Active is the Gordon Setter?

The Gordon Setter has been known as a good galloper, so you can easily understand that he loves the outdoor life and needs significant daily exercise.

He does best with an active family and tends to become nervous and restless inside the home without sufficient exercise.

If you are a runner he will really enjoy tagging along with you. Otherwise, long walks are a good alternative especially if combined with an opportunity for playtime in the yard.

Ideal Living Space

The best environment would be a rural property with plenty of room to run. He will be relatively inactive and contented indoors if given sufficient outdoor activity.

The Gordon is not recommended for typical apartment style living as it would be too confining for his nature.

A Good Breed For Children?

This breed has an excellent reputation with children who have been taught how to respect pets and handle them correctly. Because of their high energy, not the best choice around toddlers.

As with any breed of dog, an adult should always supervise activities between pets and children.

Senior Or Less Active Families?

The Gordon Setter dog would make a devoted companion for the seniors or less active families providing someone is available to consistently handle the exercise requirements on a daily basis.

There is also the matter of grooming which has to be done at least three times a week to preserve the Gordon's beautiful coat.

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