Gordon Setter
The Gordon Setter is a Scottish breed of dog which is often used for retrieving. They are known for their unique coat which is both shiny and soft.
Gordon Setter Breed overview
Gordon Setters are an energetic breed that requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They have a thick, weather-resistant coat that requires regular grooming and maintenance, and they may be prone to chewing and destructive behavior if they are not provided with enough toys and attention. They can be friendly and affectionate with their family, but may be reserved around strangers. As hunting dogs, they have a strong prey drive and enjoy outdoor activities. With proper training and socialization, they can make a loyal and devoted companion for an active and engaged owner.
What To Expect When Caring For a Gordon Setter
Training
Gordon Setters are intelligent dogs and are eager to please their owners. They should be trained using positive reinforcement methods such as treats and praise. They respond well to obedience training and socialization. It is important to be consistent and patient when training a Gordon Setter.
Grooming
Gordon Setters have a long and shiny coat that requires regular brushing in order to prevent matting and tangling. They should be bathed every three months or so. Their ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection.
Health
Gordon Setters are usually healthy dogs, but they can develop hip dysplasia, bloat, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Regular visits to the veterinarian are important to catch these conditions early. Breeders should test for these conditions in their breeding dogs in order to minimize the risk of them being passed on to the puppies.
Exercise
Gordon Setters are high-energy dogs and require a lot of exercise. They should be taken for walks or runs at least twice a day. They also enjoy playing fetch, swimming, and other outdoor activities.
Nutrition
Gordon Setters require a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their age, weight, and activity level. They should be fed twice a day and given access to fresh water at all times. Owners should avoid feeding them table scraps or human food as it can cause weight gain and digestive problems.
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Gordon Setter Traits & Characteristics
Gordon Setters have a long, flat, and somewhat wavy coat that is mostly black with tan markings on the legs, chest, and eyebrows. The breed stands at 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and can weigh between 45 to 80 pounds. Gordon Setters are known to be muscular, athletic, and well-balanced in conformation and movement. The head should be long, lean and moderately wide between the ears with the skull flattening to a slight but definite stop.
Affection
The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.
While Gordon Setters are loyal and deeply devoted to their family, they can be somewhat reserved around strangers, so they may not show the same level of affection to unfamiliar people. They thrive on companionship and can be quite affectionate when they feel secure in their environment and around the people they know and love.
Children
How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.
Gordon Setters can be excellent with children when they are raised with them and well-socialized. They are playful and energetic, and enjoy spending time with children. However, as with any breed, it is important to supervise interactions between children and dogs to prevent accidents.
Dogs
The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.
Gordon Setters generally get along well with other dogs when they are properly socialized from an early age. They may be somewhat reserved when they first meet other dogs, but with time and patience, they can learn to get along well with other dogs.
Strangers
The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.
Gordon Setters can be somewhat reserved around strangers, particularly if they have not been well-socialized from an early age. They may take some time to warm up to new people, but with proper training and socialization, they can learn to be friendly and outgoing with strangers.
Playfulness
The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.
Gordon Setters are playful and energetic dogs who enjoy spending time with their family. They may be particularly fond of playing fetch and other games that involve running and chasing. They do require regular exercise and playtime to stay happy and healthy.
Alertness
The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs
Gordon Setters are generally alert and attentive dogs who make good watch dogs. While they may not be as vigilant as some other breeds, they can still be relied on to alert their owners to any potential threats or unusual activity.
Adaptability
The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.
Gordon Setters are adaptable dogs who can do well in a variety of living situations, as long as they receive enough exercise and attention. They can thrive in both urban and rural environments, and can easily adapt to changes in their routine or environment.
Shedding
The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.
Gordon Setters have a thick, weather-resistant coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. Weekly brushing can help to remove loose hair and prevent matting, and they may require more frequent grooming during shedding season. Their coat also provides some protection against cold weather and rain.
Grooming
The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.
Gordon Setters have a medium-length, dense coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition and prevent matting. They may require weekly brushing, as well as regular trimming and clipping to maintain an even and tidy appearance.
Drooling
The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.
Gordon Setters are not considered to be heavy droolers. While they may occasionally drool in certain situations, such as when they are excited or waiting for food, it is not a major characteristic of the breed.
Size
The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.
Gordon Setters are a medium-sized breed, with males typically weighing between 55 and 80 pounds, and females weighing between 45 and 70 pounds. They have a sturdy and muscular build, which gives them a strong and athletic appearance.
Energy
The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.
Gordon Setters are energetic and active dogs who require daily exercise and playtime to stay happy and healthy. They may enjoy activities such as hiking, jogging, and swimming, as well as games and toys that help to keep them mentally stimulated.
Exercise
The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Gordon Setters require daily exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy. They may enjoy activities such as hiking, running, and swimming, as well as games and toys that challenge their physical and mental abilities.
Working
The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.
Gordon Setters were originally bred as hunting dogs, and they have a strong prey drive and hunting instinct. They can also excel in other work or performance roles, such as obedience trials or agility competitions.
Hunting
The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.
Gordon Setters were originally bred as hunting dogs, and they have a keen sense of smell and a strong instinct for tracking and retrieving game. They may be particularly adept at hunting birds and other small game, and may enjoy participating in hunting competitions and activities.
Vigor
The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.
Gordon Setters are active and energetic dogs who have plenty of stamina and endurance. They require regular exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy, and may enjoy activities such as hiking, running, and swimming.
Health
The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.
Gordon Setters are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they may be prone to certain health issues. Some of the conditions that may affect Gordon Setters include hip dysplasia, bloat, and progressive retinal atrophy. Regular veterinary checkups and preventative care can help to ensure that they stay healthy.
Obesity
The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.
Gordon Setters are not particularly prone to obesity, but like any breed, they can become overweight if they are overfed or do not receive enough exercise. A healthy diet and regular exercise are key to preventing obesity and maintaining good overall health.
Cold
The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.
Gordon Setters have a thick, weather-resistant coat that provides good protection against cold weather. While they may still require additional warm clothing or shelter in extreme temperatures, they can generally handle cold weather conditions well.
Heat
The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.
Gordon Setters may struggle in hot weather conditions, particularly if they are not provided with adequate shade and water. Their thick coat can make them prone to overheating, so it is important to monitor them closely during hot weather and provide cooling measures when necessary.
Apartment
The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.
Gordon Setters are not ideally suited for apartment living, as they require plenty of space and exercise to stay happy and healthy. They may become bored or destructive if they are cooped up in a small space for long periods of time.
Wanderlust
The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.
Gordon Setters may have a tendency to wander or roam if they are not properly supervised or exercised. While they are not as prone to wanderlust as some other breeds, such as the Hound group, it is important to make sure they are securely contained or leashed when out in public.
Sensitivity
The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.
Gordon Setters can be sensitive dogs who may become stressed or anxious in new or unfamiliar situations. They require gentle and patient training methods, and may be more prone to stress-related health issues if they are subjected to harsh or negative reinforcement.
Separation
The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.
Gordon Setters can be left alone for moderate periods of time, as long as they are properly exercised and have toys and other diversions to keep them occupied. They may become destructive or anxious if left alone for too long, so it is important to build up their tolerance gradually.
Barking
The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.
Gordon Setters are not particularly known for being barkers, but like any breed, they may bark in certain situations, such as when they hear noises outside or when they are excited. Training and socialization can help to minimize excessive barking.
Mental
The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.
Gordon Setters are intelligent dogs who require mental stimulation and engagement to stay happy and healthy. They may enjoy training sessions, interactive toys, and games that require problem-solving and critical thinking.
Novice_owners
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Gordon Setters can be a good choice for novice dog owners who are willing to invest the time and energy required to properly train and socialize them. They are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train.
Trainability
The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.
Gordon Setters are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, and can be trained to perform a variety of tasks and tricks. Consistency and patience are key to their successful training.
Affection
The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.
While Gordon Setters are loyal and deeply devoted to their family, they can be somewhat reserved around strangers, so they may not show the same level of affection to unfamiliar people. They thrive on companionship and can be quite affectionate when they feel secure in their environment and around the people they know and love.
Children
How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.
Gordon Setters can be excellent with children when they are raised with them and well-socialized. They are playful and energetic, and enjoy spending time with children. However, as with any breed, it is important to supervise interactions between children and dogs to prevent accidents.
Dogs
The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.
Gordon Setters generally get along well with other dogs when they are properly socialized from an early age. They may be somewhat reserved when they first meet other dogs, but with time and patience, they can learn to get along well with other dogs.
Strangers
The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.
Gordon Setters can be somewhat reserved around strangers, particularly if they have not been well-socialized from an early age. They may take some time to warm up to new people, but with proper training and socialization, they can learn to be friendly and outgoing with strangers.
Playfulness
The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.
Gordon Setters are playful and energetic dogs who enjoy spending time with their family. They may be particularly fond of playing fetch and other games that involve running and chasing. They do require regular exercise and playtime to stay happy and healthy.
Alertness
The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs
Gordon Setters are generally alert and attentive dogs who make good watch dogs. While they may not be as vigilant as some other breeds, they can still be relied on to alert their owners to any potential threats or unusual activity.
Adaptability
The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.
Gordon Setters are adaptable dogs who can do well in a variety of living situations, as long as they receive enough exercise and attention. They can thrive in both urban and rural environments, and can easily adapt to changes in their routine or environment.
Shedding
The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.
Gordon Setters have a thick, weather-resistant coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. Weekly brushing can help to remove loose hair and prevent matting, and they may require more frequent grooming during shedding season. Their coat also provides some protection against cold weather and rain.
Grooming
The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.
Gordon Setters have a medium-length, dense coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition and prevent matting. They may require weekly brushing, as well as regular trimming and clipping to maintain an even and tidy appearance.
Drooling
The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.
Gordon Setters are not considered to be heavy droolers. While they may occasionally drool in certain situations, such as when they are excited or waiting for food, it is not a major characteristic of the breed.
Size
The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.
Gordon Setters are a medium-sized breed, with males typically weighing between 55 and 80 pounds, and females weighing between 45 and 70 pounds. They have a sturdy and muscular build, which gives them a strong and athletic appearance.
Energy
The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.
Gordon Setters are energetic and active dogs who require daily exercise and playtime to stay happy and healthy. They may enjoy activities such as hiking, jogging, and swimming, as well as games and toys that help to keep them mentally stimulated.
Exercise
The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Gordon Setters require daily exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy. They may enjoy activities such as hiking, running, and swimming, as well as games and toys that challenge their physical and mental abilities.
Working
The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.
Gordon Setters were originally bred as hunting dogs, and they have a strong prey drive and hunting instinct. They can also excel in other work or performance roles, such as obedience trials or agility competitions.
Hunting
The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.
Gordon Setters were originally bred as hunting dogs, and they have a keen sense of smell and a strong instinct for tracking and retrieving game. They may be particularly adept at hunting birds and other small game, and may enjoy participating in hunting competitions and activities.
Vigor
The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.
Gordon Setters are active and energetic dogs who have plenty of stamina and endurance. They require regular exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy, and may enjoy activities such as hiking, running, and swimming.
Health
The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.
Gordon Setters are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they may be prone to certain health issues. Some of the conditions that may affect Gordon Setters include hip dysplasia, bloat, and progressive retinal atrophy. Regular veterinary checkups and preventative care can help to ensure that they stay healthy.
Obesity
The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.
Gordon Setters are not particularly prone to obesity, but like any breed, they can become overweight if they are overfed or do not receive enough exercise. A healthy diet and regular exercise are key to preventing obesity and maintaining good overall health.
Cold
The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.
Gordon Setters have a thick, weather-resistant coat that provides good protection against cold weather. While they may still require additional warm clothing or shelter in extreme temperatures, they can generally handle cold weather conditions well.
Heat
The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.
Gordon Setters may struggle in hot weather conditions, particularly if they are not provided with adequate shade and water. Their thick coat can make them prone to overheating, so it is important to monitor them closely during hot weather and provide cooling measures when necessary.
Apartment
The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.
Gordon Setters are not ideally suited for apartment living, as they require plenty of space and exercise to stay happy and healthy. They may become bored or destructive if they are cooped up in a small space for long periods of time.
Wanderlust
The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.
Gordon Setters may have a tendency to wander or roam if they are not properly supervised or exercised. While they are not as prone to wanderlust as some other breeds, such as the Hound group, it is important to make sure they are securely contained or leashed when out in public.
Sensitivity
The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.
Gordon Setters can be sensitive dogs who may become stressed or anxious in new or unfamiliar situations. They require gentle and patient training methods, and may be more prone to stress-related health issues if they are subjected to harsh or negative reinforcement.
Separation
The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.
Gordon Setters can be left alone for moderate periods of time, as long as they are properly exercised and have toys and other diversions to keep them occupied. They may become destructive or anxious if left alone for too long, so it is important to build up their tolerance gradually.
Barking
The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.
Gordon Setters are not particularly known for being barkers, but like any breed, they may bark in certain situations, such as when they hear noises outside or when they are excited. Training and socialization can help to minimize excessive barking.
Mental
The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.
Gordon Setters are intelligent dogs who require mental stimulation and engagement to stay happy and healthy. They may enjoy training sessions, interactive toys, and games that require problem-solving and critical thinking.
Novice_owners
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Gordon Setters can be a good choice for novice dog owners who are willing to invest the time and energy required to properly train and socialize them. They are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train.
Trainability
The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.
Gordon Setters are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, and can be trained to perform a variety of tasks and tricks. Consistency and patience are key to their successful training.
Similar breeds
History of the Gordon Setter
The Gordon Setter was first discovered in Scotland in the early 17th century. It was developed by Duke Alexander Gordon to be a versatile and capable hunting dog. Their excellent sense of smell and their ability to work in all types of weather made them a popular hunting dog for bird hunters in Scotland and England.
Gordon Setter Puppies
Gordon Setter puppies are born with a black coat that become wavy and shiny as they get older. They are playful, energetic, and affectionate. They require a lot of attention and training in order to become well-behaved adult dogs. The puppies should be socialized early in order to avoid aggressive or shy behavior later in life.