Gordon Setter
Quick Facts:
- AKC recognized in 1892
- Lifespan: 12 – 13 years
- Size: medium - large
- Energy: medium
- Recommended Crate Size: 42” dog crate*
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Introduction
The Gordon Setter belongs to a large breed of dogs. It is also categorized into the Setter family, with the likes of the famous Irish Setter and English Setter. It is the largest type of Setter with an average weight of 80 pounds and a standing height of up to 27 inches.
The Gordon Setter's fur is black in color and very shiny. It also has brown marks and long hair on the abdomen, ears, chest, legs, and tail.
This breed has bright brown eyes showing a wise and willing expression.
Like other Scottish descendants, from the compact Scottish Terrier to the great Deerhound, Gordon Setters were bred to survive in bad weather and the harsh terrain in their homeland.
Breed
The American Kennel Club formally recognized the Gordon Setter in 1884.
These medium energy dogs are known as athletic and outdoorsy. It needs activity to kill boredom.
It is a fearless and willing dog, as well as intelligent and capable. Gordons are intensely loyal to their owners; thrive in an attentive, loving environment; and are known as good family dogs with appropriate obedience training. Gordons are eager to learn, sensitive and empathic, and need firm but gentle handling. Remember, although they are patient by nature, they may not be suitable for households with very young children. The breed is one of the slowest to mature, not hitting prime until three years of age or more, and will show puppy-like characteristics well into their older years.
A modern Gordon Setter is predominantly black with rich tan markings on the legs, muzzle, and chest.
It is a little bigger and heavier than either the Irish or English Setters. They are nevertheless descended from the same genetic mixing pot, which undoubtedly has its origins among those setter spaniels mentioned earlier.
The breed was brought to the United States by George Blunt and Daniel Webster in 1842, with the purchase of two dogs named Rake and Rachel from the Duke's Kennels.
Appearance
Gordon Setters have a coal-black coat with distinctive markings of a mahogany color and rich chestnut on their lower legs and paws, vents, muzzles, and throat; two spots on their chest; and one spot above each eye. Thus it is also known as "black and tans". A small amount of white is found on the chest. Although not always, red Gordons are occasionally born to normal-colored parents, the result of the expression of a recessive red gene. Gordon Setters’ coat is slightly waved or straight (but not curly), long and silky, with stomach, chest, leg, ear, and tail feathering.
Nutrition
It is recommended to provide feed formulated to medium to large-sized breeds. It is highly recommended to discuss your dog’s feed with your veterinarian and/or breeder in order to determine the size and frequency of meals in order to ensure a healthy, long life. It is also important to ensure that clean, fresh water is always available.
Grooming
Weekly brushing and bathing every two to three weeks are needed. This is done in order to make your dog stay clean and maintain its charm.
Grooming can be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your pet.
Trim regularly their strong, fast-growing nails using a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, cracking and splitting.
Regularly check their ears to avoid a buildup of debris and wax which can result in an infection.
Teeth should be brushed regularly. Around 2 to 3 times per week.
Exercise
Gordons were bred to run. It requires 60 to 80 minutes of daily vigorous exercise. The young breed should not be over-exercised or begin agility training until they are at least 18 months old in order to avoid joint problems in the future.
Because of their hunting instincts, Gordons should not be allowed to roam freely if unsupervised, as they are apt to wander into a potentially dangerous traffic situation while following a scent.
The Gordon is a loyal and affectionate dog, and strong-minded enough to stand the rigors of training. Early socialization and obedience training are important.
Pet Crate Size
Pet Crates Direct recommends a 42” dog crate* for most adult Gordon Setters.
Return to the main Dog Crate Sizes Breed Chart.
* Links for crate sizes will bring you to the most appropriate Amazon page.
