Setter (Gordon)

Origins and History

The Gordon Setter originated in Scotland in the early 19th century, developed by the Gordon family of Aberdeenshire. Bred from the original Irish Setter, Bloodhound, and other local sporting types, the breed was refined to excel at upland game bird pointing and retrieving. The first written standard appeared in the United Kingdom in 1864, and the breed was admitted to the American Kennel Club in 1889. Today the Gordon Setter remains a versatile field hunter and a popular show dog.

General Characteristics

• Size and build: A well‑balanced, muscular dog with a deep chest, strong back, and long, straight legs.
• Temperament highlights: Gentle, loyal, intelligent, and eager to please; high energy and strong desire to work.
• Primary breed purpose: Originally a pointing and retrieving gun‑dog for upland game; now also excels in conformation showing and companion roles.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 23‑27 inches (58‑69 cm); Females 21‑25 inches (53‑63 cm) at the withers.
• Weight: Males 55‑80 lb (25‑36 kg); Females 45‑70 lb (20‑32 kg).

Coat and Color

• Texture and length: Medium‑length, dense, slightly wavy to flat coat that lies close to the body; should be water‑resistant.
• Accepted colors and patterns: Rich black with clearly defined tan markings (eyebrows, muzzle, chest, legs, under tail). Solid black is also accepted. No white or other colors are permitted in the standard.

Temperament Considerations

Gordon Setters are highly motivated by scent work and praise. Their strong desire to please makes them responsive to positive‑reinforcement methods, but their independent streak can surface if training is inconsistent.

Training Essentials

• Socialization requirements: Begin early (8‑12 weeks) with exposure to people, other dogs, and varied environments to prevent over‑protectiveness.
• Exercise needs: Minimum 1‑2 hours of vigorous activity daily, including field work, fetch, or structured obedience.
• Common training challenges: Tendency to become easily distracted by scent; requires firm, consistent cues and frequent reinforcement.

Daily Grooming

• Brushing frequency and tools: Brush 2‑3 times per week with a slicker brush or a pin brush to remove loose hair and prevent matting.
• Bathing requirements: Bathe only as needed (typically every 6‑8 weeks) using a mild dog shampoo to preserve natural oils.
• Nail and dental care: Trim nails when they begin to click on hard surfaces; brush teeth several times weekly or use dental chews.

Show Preparation

• Pre‑show grooming timeline: Begin a week before the show with a thorough brush, a light bath 48 hours prior, and a final coat trim to the standard length (approximately ½‑¾ inch on the body).
• Ring presentation tips: Ensure the coat lies flat without excessive feathering; present a clean, bright black with crisp tan markings; keep ears clean and free of debris; maintain a steady, confident gait.

Common Health Issues

• Hip dysplasia – screened via OFA or Penn‑Hip evaluations.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – DNA test available; annual ophthalmologic exam recommended.
• Hypothyroidism – routine blood panels can detect early signs.
• Gastric dilatation‑volvulus (bloat) – risk mitigated by feeding multiple small meals and avoiding vigorous exercise after meals.
• Autoimmune disorders (e.g., immune‑mediated hemolytic anemia) – monitor for unexplained lethargy or pallor.

General Care

• Exercise requirements: Minimum 1‑2 hours of active play or field work daily to prevent boredom‑related behaviors.
• Nutritional needs: High‑quality protein‑rich diet appropriate for the dog's activity level; maintain a healthy body condition score to reduce joint stress.
• Lifespan considerations: Average lifespan 10‑12 years; regular veterinary check‑ups and preventive screenings help maximize longevity.

Disclaimer: The information provided is intended as a general guide. Individual dogs may vary, and owners should consult a qualified veterinarian or breed‑specific professional for personalized advice.