The Gordon Setter is a large Scottish breed of dog, a member of the setter family that also includes the better known Irish Setter and the English Setter. Setter breeds are classified as members of either the Sporting or Gundog Group depending on the national Kennel Club or Council.

The original purpose of the breed was and still is to hunt gamebirds.

Their quarry in Scotland may be the partridge or grouse, pheasant, ptarmigan, snipe, or woodcock. While overseas bird dogs are worked on quail, various types of grouse, and any other bird that will sit to a dog, that is to say that the bird will attempt to avoid a potential predator by concealment rather than taking to wing at the first sign of danger. It is this combination of a bird that will sit fast in front of a dog that will remain on point that makes bird dog work possible.

The modern Gordon Setter is a predominantly black dog with rich tan markings on the muzzle, legs and chest. A little bigger and heavier than either the Irish or the English Setter. The Kennel Club applied the name "Gordon Setter" to the breed in 1924. Before that they were known as the black and tan setters and were found in many kennels besides those of Alexander Gordon, the $th Duke of Gordon.

APPEARANCE

Gordon Setters, also known as "black and tans", have a coal black coat with distinctive markings of a rich chestnut or mahogany color on their paws and lower legs, vents, throat, and muzzles; one spot above each eye and two spots on their chest. A small amount of white is allowed on the chest. Although uncommon, red Gordons are occasionally born to normal colored parents, the result of a recessive red gene. Predominantly tan, red or buff dogs are ineligible for showing. A Gordons coat is straight or slightly waved (but not curly), long and silky, with chest, stomach, ear, leg, and tail feathering. According to breed standards, "the bearing is intelligent, noble and dignified." They are the heavies of the Setter breeds.

Height:

Males 24-27 in (61-69 cm)

Females 23-26 in (58-66 cm)

Weight

Males 55-80 lb (25-36 kg)

Females 45-70 lb (20-32 kg)

TEMPERMENT

The Gordon Setter is described as "alert, interested, and confident. He is fearless and willing, intelligent and capable. He is loyal and affectionate, and strong minded enough to stand the rigors of training." Gordons are intensely loyal to their owners; thrive in an attentive and loving environment and are good family dogs. Puppies and adult dogs can be quite boisterous and although they are patient by nature, may not be suitable for households with very young children. Gordons are sensitive and empathic, eager to learn, and need firm but gentle handling. Early socialization and obedience training are important. 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.

Gordons were bred to run and require 60-80 minutes of vigorous exercise daily. Young dogs should not be over exercised or begin agility training until they are at least 18 months old, to avoid joint problems later in life. Because of their hunting instincts, Gordons should not be allowed to roam freely unsupervised as they are apt to wander into potentially dangerous situations, such as traffic, while following a scent.

HEALTH

Although not prone to hip dysplasia as many of the larger breeds, Gordons can suffer from the condition. Other health issues can include hypothyroidism, gastric torsion (bloat), and eye disease such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts. Life expectancy for the breed is generally about 10 to 15 years.