The Gordon Setter is one of those kinds of dogs that most folks are going to refer to as being a really “good looking” dog or a “handsome” dog. This is because, these guys are quite handsome but also because they look as though they have a “purpose” beyond that of just looking good!
And while…
This might sound a bit “biased” we here at IndulgeYourPet are OK with that because, we don’t mind admitting it, we are a BIG fan of the Gordon Setter Dog breed.
But just because…
We here at IndulgeYourPet happen to think that the Gordon Setter is a great dog breed, doesn’t mean that one of these guys is going to be a good “fit” for you and your family.
This is why…
We wanted to take a moment and discuss what it might be like to actually own a Gordon Stetter so that if you’re ever given the opportunity to own one of these amazing creatures, you’ll know for sure if it’s a good idea.
So, without further ado, let’s dive right in.
Gordon Setter Dog Breed Fast Facts
Country of Origin: Scotland
Original Purpose: Bird setting and retrieving
Height: 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 45 to 80 pounds
Life Span: 10 to 12 years
Dog Breed Classification: Sporting group
Gordon Setter Origin
The Gordon Setter is a Scottish breed that is a descendent of black and tan setters that date back to the early 1600’s. What set the Gordon Setter apart from his earlier ancestors is that he was specifically developed by the fourth Duke of Gordon in the late 1700’s to become a more “refined” breed.
Developed from a strain…
Known as the Gordo Castle Setters, these dogs were well regarded by the nobility for their athleticism, stamina and responsiveness to commands which is probably why they are still in existence today.
Gordon Setters in America
The Gordon Setter popularity was not only limited to Scottish dog enthusiasts because once these guys made it to American in the mid-1800’s they were quickly appreciated for their talents and good looks which is probably why the American Kennel Club (AKC) choose to “officially” recognize the breed so soon after their arrival.
Today…
The Gordon Setter remains a favorite among bird hunters throughout the United States despite the fact that they may lack some of the speed and “pizzazz” of some other more common “retrievers”.
Physical Characteristics
The Gordon Setter is the biggest of all setter breeds. Weighing in between 45-80 pounds and can reach up to a height of 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder level.
One thing that you should know…
Is that there is a lot of fluctuation in weight between different Gordon Setters, so there is no way to tell for sure how much your dog is going to weigh. Which is why we always suggest that folks just assume that he is going to be rather big.
These guys area also…
Supremely athletic and performs well in all field trials. He is a muscular, strong, good looking dog and looks great in his long and distinctive shiny, silky black and tan coat.
What about the grooming?
The Gordon has a long, thick coat, which means you will need to give him a brush every 2 or 3 days, so as to untangle the mats and tangles.
You should give him a bath every 6 weeks, or whenever he is covered in dirt or grime. Trimming the nails is essential, as is brushing his teeth and cleaning his ears. That helps prevent any infection from spreading.
Gordon Setter temperament and personality
The Gordon Setter is temperamentally very mild-mannered dog. He is not the aggressive type and you don’t get any of the incessant barking with him as you might have noticed in some of the other dogs.
He should…
However, get his daily exercise; otherwise he can get quite restless. He is an ideal pet for those who go out walking or running every morning, or want to lose weight. He is an energetic dog and he will make you run or walk briskly alongside him.
And as we already…
Mentioned, the Gordon Setter is very good at dog sports such as obedience, agility, rally, and tracking. This is probably because he is naturally very alert and sharp and always on his guard.
Traits that will…
Help make him a perfect watchdog or guard dog for any family letting you know when someone is approaching.
These guys are also…
Very smart and easy to train. He is responsive to your commands. However, he is a very social dog and hates being left alone all by himself in the backyard. He wants to be with your family. He just wants to be around in the house as you go about your daily routine.
Which is probably…
The only negative that we can really come up with regards to this breed. Because if you’re looking for a dog that is just going to want to sit around the house all day by himself, well then… All we can tell you is that a Gordon Setter isn’t going to be a good fit for you!
Gordon Setter Common Health Problems
The Gordon is a very healthy dog breed, but as a purebred dog he is prone to certain genetic conditions and other health disorders such as…
- Entropion,
- Elbow dysplasia,
- Hip dysplasia,
- Gastric dilatation volvulus (Bloat),
- Follicular dysplasia,
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy.
He is also prone to eye diseases such as cataract which is quite common with dogs as they get older.
Which is why…
We here at IndulgeYourPet also recommend that any new pet owner take a moment and see what it might cost for you to purchase a pet insurance policy for your new animal.
Now will a pet insurance policy be right for everyone?
No, probably not. But until you fully understand what these policies “will” and “won’t” cover and how much these pet insurance policies cost, how will you know if one might be right for you?
For more information on who we feel currently offers the “best” pet insurance policies out there, we would encourage you to check out our Best Pet Insurance Policies article.
