Gordon Setter
Overview
There are several different setters (dogs that find birds hiding on the ground) of which the Gordon Setter is one of the largest.
Working in a similar field to the Irish and English Setters - this breed is adept at finding ground-dwelling birds such as snipe and woodcock for their masters. Able to point and set across many different terrains - as found in their original Scottish homeland - this powerful dog can also cover great distances.
Sometimes called Black-and-Tan Setters - they may have originally been created by mixing several other working breeds together. This mix is said to include the Bloodhound, so it's no wonder they can follow a scent with ease.
Appearance and Coat:
Gordon Setters are easily identifiable among the larger setters and spaniels as they are the only one that is solid black and tan. They are very unusual to even see in the first place - so you will always know one when you see one!
With a long, lush coat, they will need regular grooming to release all their shed hair and still stay looking great. They will also need drying off after wet winter walks or surprise summer swims! They definitely need regular attention paid to their drooping ears too because they drag them through absolutely everything on a walk.
Don't fear though - there are many tips and tricks for getting the perfect coat! However, if you are showing this breed you won't want to be shaving back their coat in hot weather.
What Are They Like To Keep?
Keeping a Gordon Setter is a delight if you are patient and understanding. They aren't the most eager of students; can be somewhat clumsy; and, as a large breed they have associated costs to reflect that. As with all slow-growing dogs, extreme exercise when young should also be avoided, but once up and running they are an outdoor pleasure.
Reaching around hip-height at the shoulder when adult and weighing in at up to 30kg - they can certainly cover most of the sofa each evening. However, their relaxed attitude makes for a great home companion - even if a slightly mischievous one!
How Is Their General Health?
As a large breed there are always potential health issues to be aware of. Researching the breed fully beforehand and buying tested stock means that these can be avoided or reduced.
Gordon Setters have an average lifespan of around 10-12 years either when working or when pets, so will be a long-term investment for any family.
Breed Information
| Popularity: | 2018: #104 2017: #104 2016: #104 2015: #105 |
| Origin: | United Kingdom |
| Breed Group: | Sporting (AKC:1884) Gun Dog (UKC) |
| Size: | Large |
| Type: | Purebred |
| Life span: | 10-12 years |
| Temperament: | Alert Confident Eager Fearless Gay Loyal Intelligent |
| Height: | Male: 24-27 inches (61-69 cm) Female: 23-26 inches (58-66 cm) |
| Weight: | Male: 55-80 pounds (25-36 kg) Female: 45-70 pounds (20-32 kg) |
| Colors: | Black & Tan Red Tan |
| Litter Size: | 6-8 puppies |
| Puppy Price: | Average $800 - $1000 USD |
Breed Characteristics
| Adaptability: |
|
| Apartment Friendly: |
|
| Cat Friendly: |
|
| Child Friendly: |
|
| Grooming: |
|
| Health Issues: |
|
| Intelligence: |
|
| Trainability: |
|
| Watchdog Ability: |
|
Dog names
| Rank | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toby | Maggie |
| 2 | Bentley | Roxy |
| 3 | Dexter | Zoe |
| 4 | Winston | Ginger |
| 5 | Sammy | Layla |
| 6 | Bandit | Riley |
| 7 | Beau | Roxie |
| 8 | Scout | Honey |
| 9 | Simba | Phoebe |
| 10 | Ziggy | Jasmine |
| 11 | Ace | Sugar |
| 12 | Prince | Fiona |
| 13 | Frankie | Baby |
| 14 | Cash | Delilah |
| 15 | Bubba | Nina |