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Characteristics, History, and Health
Gordon Setter
The Gordon Setter breed traces its roots back to Scotland in the early 17th century and was developed as a bird dog to work in the harsh Scottish Highlands. The breed was initially known as the "black and tan setting dog". In the 19th century, the breed gained popularity under the 4th Duke of Gordon, Alexander Gordon, and was subsequently named after him. Gordon Setters were brought to the United States in the 1840s and were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1892.
Main Info
- Origin
- Scotland and England
- Alternate Names
- Gordon, Black and Tan
- Life Expectancy
- 12-13 years
- Average Male Height
- 24-27 inches
- Average Female Height
- 23-26 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 55-80 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 45-70 pounds
- Coat Length
- Medium
- Coat Type
- Double
- Coat Colors
- Black & Tan, Red, Tan
- Coat Pattern
- None
Genetic Predispositions and Health
Gordon Setters are susceptible to bloat, also known as gastric dilation volvulus (GDV). This is a life-threatening condition that can come on suddenly, so it’s important to know the warning signs and get an affected dog immediate veterinary care. They can suffer from eye disorders including dry eye, progressive retinal atrophy, and cataracts. They may also experience inflammation of the face and lymph nodes as puppies, a condition called juvenile cellulitis. Other conditions that may affect the Gordon Setter seizures, cancer, thyroid issues, cerebellar ataxia, kidney and heart disease, and orthopedic issues such as elbow and hip dysplasia.
Personality and Behavior
Gordon Setters are known for their loyal, intelligent, and sometimes stubborn nature. They are usually good with children and get along well with other dogs if properly socialized from a young age. They are energetic dogs, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation.
While Gordon Setters can be trained for obedience, they are known to have a stubborn streak and can be independent thinkers. This makes consistent, positive reinforcement training essential from a young age. They are sensitive dogs and respond well to gentle, consistent training methods.
Fun Facts
Gordon Setters are among the largest of the setter breeds.
They have an excellent sense of smell, second only to the Bloodhound.
Their coat color, black with tan markings, became standardized only in the late 19th century.
The Gordon Castle Setters, bred by the Duke of Gordon, were originally tri-color (black, tan, and white). The white was later bred out of the breed.
They are the only Scottish setter breed recognized by the American Kennel Club.
References
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/gordon-setter/
https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/what-to-know-gordon-setters#091e9c5e824290cf-3-9 https://ofa.org/chic-programs/browse-by-breed/?breed=GSE https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24516392/ https://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/006g07-en.pdf
https://www.ukcdogs.com/gordon-setter
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