Description

Gordon Setter is a good-sized, sturdily built, black and tan dog, well muscled, with plenty of bone and substance. The Gordon Setter is a tireless worker and enjoys abundant exercise and attention. Gordon Setter is a better watch dog than the other setters, making him a loyal and protective pet. A lovable, friendly, intelligent dog who is sensitive and gentle.

Size of Male: Height: 24-27 inches Weight: 55-80 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 23-26 inches Weight: 45-70 pounds

Temperament

The Gordon Setter is distinguished both for its loyalty and obedience. Gordon Setter is a devoted, polite, gentle and sensible dog. Gordon Setters are pleasant companions that are excellent with children. Intelligent and willing, it is a methodical hunter who seldom errs about a scent. Courageous, cheerful and affectionate. This breed needs lots of exercise or it may become hyperactive. Very loyal to the family, but tends to be reserved with strangers. It may become jealous of other pets, but is generally good with them. This breed likes to roam, so it is a good idea to have a fenced-in yard. Puppies may seem somewhat uncoordinated. Field lines are often smaller and lighter than show lines, but both make good pets. These dogs often have minds of their own, so train early before bad habits set in. Training these dogs is certainly not difficult, provided you take into account that it can be stubborn on occasion. They call for a handler who is both consistent and loving in approach. This dog should be introduced to all situations (people, animals and things) as a young pup to produce a well-balanced dog. A Gordon Setter who has been introduced as a puppy to cats will get along well with them. If strangers visit they adopt a wait-and-see attitude. Generally they get along well with other dogs and with children because they are friendly to everyone.

Living Conditions

The Gordon Setter is not recommended for apartment life. Gordon Setter is relatively inactive indoors (if a Gordon Setter gets enough outdoor activity it will be calm when it is indoors) and does best with at least a large, safely fenced yard where it can run free. Gordon Setters like to roam, so a good fence around your property is essential. However, if you ensure they get enough exercise daily by long walks in the morning and night, they do make ok apartment pets as well.

Upkeep

The Gordon Setter needs much strenuous exercise every day in order to stay in shape. Gordon Setters can live outdoors in temperate climates, but it must be able to spend ample time with its family and does best dividing its time between inside and outside, a good mix of both. Gordon Setter’s coat needs regular brushing and combing every two to three days. In addition, some clipping and trimming is needed for optimal good looks.

Health

Major concerns: Hip dysplasia, gastric torsion

Minor concerns: Progressive retinal atrophy, elbow dysplasia

Life expectancy: 10 – 12 years