Gordon Setter
Your Complete Guide to the Gordon Setter
Gordon Setter History: Scotland’s Sturdy Gundog
The Gordon Setter is a majestic sporting breed with origins in Scotland dating back to at least the 17th century. They are the heaviest and most substantial of the three setter breeds (which also include the Irish Setter and English Setter). The breed was developed by Scottish sportsmen who needed a hardy, durable gundog capable of withstanding the rugged terrain and harsh weather of the Scottish moors. They were bred to be a “one-man” shooting dog, working at a closer, more methodical pace than other setters, making them ideal for hunters on foot.
The breed was standardized and popularized in the early 19th century by Alexander Gordon, the 4th Duke of Gordon, at his estate, Gordon Castle. While he did not create the breed, he was a key figure in establishing the distinctive black-and-tan type. These dogs were prized for their excellent scenting ability, intelligence, and stamina in finding and pointing game birds like grouse, ptarmigan, and woodcock. The breed’s striking appearance and loyal nature also made them admired companions. Gordon Setters were first imported to the United States in the mid-19th century, and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1884.
Gordon Setter Temperament: Confident, Affectionate, and Boldly Loyal
The Gordon Setter is known for its confident, intelligent, and bold yet sweet-natured temperament. They are fiercely loyal and devoted to their families, forming strong bonds and thriving on human companionship. While they are serious and determined workers in the field, they are often playful and affectionate in the home. Gordons are generally good-natured and can be excellent with children, especially if raised with them, showing patience and a protective instinct.
They are alert and will bark to announce visitors, making them good watchdogs. Their natural confidence means they are not typically shy, but they can be reserved or aloof with strangers until they get to know them. Early and consistent socialization is important to ensure they are well-adjusted. Gordons are intelligent and trainable but also possess an independent streak, a common trait in hunting breeds. They require an owner who can provide consistent, positive training and leadership. Their combination of nobility and affection makes them cherished family members.
Grooming Your Gordon Setter: Maintaining the Black and Tan Coat
The Gordon Setter has a beautiful, moderately long, straight or slightly wavy double coat that is soft and glossy, with characteristic long feathering on the ears, chest, belly, back of the legs, and tail. Their coat is always black with distinct tan (rich chestnut or mahogany) markings.
This handsome coat requires regular grooming to keep it healthy, free from tangles, and looking its best. They are considered average shedders. Brushing several times a week with a pin brush, slicker brush, and a comb is essential, paying particular attention to the feathered areas where mats can easily form, especially after being outdoors. Occasional trimming, particularly around the feet, ears, and to neaten the feathering, can help maintain a tidy appearance. Baths should be given as needed. Their long, pendulous ears are prone to infections and must be checked and cleaned regularly to ensure good air circulation and prevent moisture buildup. Routine nail trims and dental care are also crucial.
Gordon Setter Exercise: An Athlete with Stamina
Gordon Setters are high-energy, athletic dogs that require a significant amount of vigorous daily exercise to maintain their physical fitness and mental well-being. They were bred for long days of hunting in challenging terrain and possess considerable stamina. This is not a breed suited for a sedentary lifestyle; they need an outlet for their energy.
Aim for at least one to two hours of robust activity per day. Excellent exercise options for a Gordon Setter include:
- Long, brisk walks, jogging, or running alongside a bicycle (once fully mature and conditioned).
- Off-leash running and playtime in a large, securely fenced area. Their hunting instincts mean they may follow scents or chase birds if not contained.
- Games of fetch or retrieving.
- Canine sports such as hunt tests, field trials, agility, obedience, or tracking, which challenge their intelligence and athleticism.
- Hiking in varied terrain.
Without a sufficient outlet for their energy and intelligence, Gordon Setters can become bored, restless, and may develop undesirable behaviors. They thrive in active homes where they can be a regular participant in their family’s outdoor adventures. They mature more slowly than some breeds and often maintain high energy levels for many years.
Common Gordon Setter Health Issues
Gordon Setters are generally a healthy breed, but like all purebred dogs, they can be susceptible to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for these issues. Potential health concerns include:
- Hip Dysplasia: A common concern in many sporting and large breeds, involving malformation of the hip joint. Elbow dysplasia can also occur.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): An inherited eye condition that can lead to blindness. DNA testing is available and crucial for breeding stock.
- Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus – GDV): A life-threatening emergency common in deep-chested breeds. Owners must be aware of the signs and preventative measures.
- Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland.
- Cerebellar Abiotrophy (CA):** A rare neurological condition affecting coordination.
- Heart Conditions:** While not widespread, cardiac issues can occur.
Choosing a reputable breeder who performs comprehensive health screenings (hips, elbows, eyes including PRA, heart, thyroid, etc.) on their breeding dogs and is transparent about health issues in their lines is vital. Regular veterinary care, a quality diet appropriate for an active sporting dog, and suitable exercise contribute to a Gordon Setter’s long-term health.
Training Your Gordon Setter: Engaging a Bold and Intelligent Mind
Training a Gordon Setter can be a rewarding experience as they are highly intelligent and generally eager to please their trusted owner. However, their intelligence is often paired with an independent streak and a strong will, which can make them a bit stubborn. Positive reinforcement techniques combined with firm, fair, and consistent leadership work best.
Key aspects of training a Gordon Setter include:
- Early Socialization: Expose your Gordon Setter puppy to a wide variety of people, sights, sounds, and other animals from a young age to build a confident and well-adjusted adult and manage their natural reserve with strangers.
- Positive Reinforcement: They thrive on praise, treats, play, and enthusiastic encouragement. They are sensitive and do not respond well to harsh corrections.
- Keep it Fun and Varied: Their intelligence means they can get bored easily with repetition. Incorporate games and new challenges into training.
- Patience and Consistency: They are slow to mature, so be patient and consistent with your training and expectations.
- Recall (“Come” command): Important to train reliably from a young age, especially given their hunting instincts. Practice in safe, enclosed areas first, making it highly rewarding.
Puppy socialization classes and ongoing obedience or sports training are highly recommended. Their intelligence and athleticism make them excellent candidates for various canine activities when trained with positive and engaging methods.
Gordon Setter FAQs
Q: Are Gordon Setters good family dogs?
A: Yes, Gordon Setters can be excellent family dogs for active families. They are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature and are typically good with children they are raised with. Their high energy levels mean they need a family that can provide plenty of exercise and engagement.
Q: How are Gordon Setters different from other setters?
A: The Gordon Setter is the only black-and-tan setter. They are also the heaviest and most substantial in build compared to the more racy Irish Setter and the elegant English Setter. They were bred to be a more methodical, close-working gundog for a single hunter on foot, whereas other setters might range farther.
Q: Do Gordon Setters bark a lot?
A: Gordon Setters are not typically nuisance barkers but will bark to alert their owners to visitors or unusual sounds, making them effective watchdogs. They may also bark during play or if bored.
Q: Are Gordon Setters good for first-time owners?
A: Due to their high energy, intelligence, need for consistent training, and sometimes independent nature, Gordon Setters can be a challenge for first-time owners. They do best with experienced owners who can provide the leadership and active lifestyle they require.