The Gordon Setter is a distinguished breed with deep roots in Scotland, tracing back to the 17th century. Its early ancestors were spirited, black spaniel-type dogs, later refined through crosses with English and Irish Setters, Pointers, and Collies. Some historians also suggest that Bloodhounds contributed to the breed’s development, enhancing its keen sense of smell. By the 19th century, the Gordon Setter’s reputation had spread beyond Britain, leading to its export to the United States, Canada, and Australia, where it quickly gained popularity.
Origin
The Setter Gordon breed was created by the Scottish Duke Alexander IV of Gordon towards the end of the 18th century. It is said to have originated from a cross between an English Setter and a Collie.
According to various authors, the Irish Setter and the Bloodhound, also known as the Chien de Saint Hubert, are believed to have contributed to the formation of this breed. Gordon setter is a fitting acknowledgement in honour of the breeder who improved the breed and established its technical characteristics and excellent hunting qualities.
Duke Alexander IV of Gordon Castle was not the creator, but the first and most outstanding breeder and improver of the officially recognised black-furred setters, later known as Gordons.
According to the cynologist Vetrier, as early as 1526, shepherd dogs were being used to mate with hounds. The origin of the Gordon setter seems to be precisely due to a mating of a shepherd bitch with Duke Alexander IV’s best Gordon setter.
In the region of Scotland north of Fochabers, near the Duke’s properties, before the 19th century, many shepherds owned herding dogs that had hunting qualities even superior to those of the English hunting breeds of the time. When the Duke hunted on his estates at Gordon Castle, he borrowed a female shepherd, who was very good at hunting. She was his favourite and later became mated with a good male owned by the Duke, the progenitor of the breed.
Legend has it that this shepherd bitch was a Collie breed. She may have been a shepherd, but she was not a Collie because this breed has completely different ethnic traits from the Gordon.
The Gordon’s trunk is in the square, the Collie’s trunk is longer than it is tall, and it has a framework bone structure, unlike the Gordon, which has a large bone structure.
In addition, the Gordon has ears that are pendulous and long and set low, whereas the Collie has them small and erect (only the upper third bent forward and down). There may be Bloodhound and Labrador blood, which are the probable contributors to the genesis of Gordon.
From this shepherd breed bitch covered by a Gordon were born six puppies with a black coat with white and brown spots. This was the first litter of the Gordon Castle breeding. The first Gordons bred by the Duke were tricolour, or black with white spots and dots.
The Duke preferred this coat with white spots because it enabled him to distinguish them better from a distance. As early as 1620, a breed of setter-type stationary dogs with a black flamed coat was known in Scotland; Charles II owned several of them in 1660 and preferred them to other inactive dogs. Laverlack, a regular visitor to the Duke’s kennels, wrote in 1828.
In 1725, there were two varieties of Setters Gordon
‘For a long time and now, the Setters at the Duke’s Castle are all black, white and fire‘.
In 1725, there were two varieties of Gordon Setters: black, white, and red-brown, as well as black and light brown.
The black-and-white one was tall, with strong bones, long ears, and abundant fur and fringing, while the other was of a lighter build and had less abundant fur. The Gordon kennel did not breed dogs with weak bones, long muzzles, little lips, or watery eyes. The kennel manager was Mr Jubb, who was also a good dresser.
In the 1800s, the breed gained popularity, becoming the breed of choice. The coat gradually changed from black, white, and fiery to fiery black with a single white patch on the chest and mahogany-red tawny spots. The introduction of Irish blood made the size lighter and faster.
In 1865, Mr Idstone, pseudonym of the Evangelical Pastor T. Pearce, breeder and skilful dresser, insisted on advising them with skilful crosses (see English but mainly Irish setters). Many listened to him and put his suggestions into practice, among them Mr. Robert Chappan Glemboig, who, after several years, obtained the desired dogs: lighter, faster, and with more blood (passion).
The Gordon setter of the Chapman kennels that brought back the most prizes was Champion Heather Grouse, recognised as the best Setter of that era. Champion breeding received numerous requests from abroad, especially from Norway, where this breed gained widespread popularity and was produced with excellent results for several years.
Paul Caillard also imported some into France, Germany, Sweden, and Russia. Gordon setters also arrived in Italy from Norway, and at the end of the 19th and early 20th centuries, they were considered the best hunting setters.
It is worth mentioning the happy and numerous imports from Norway made by Count Emanuele Morteo (Canile of la Torre), who imported, among others, the stallion Range Steck, of mighty construction, a beautiful head and very good at hunting. Prof. Gino Pollaci should also be mentioned among the breeders of those years.
Prince di S. Anna del Comm was the most appreciated Gordon setter of the 1930s, born and bred in Italy for its outstanding hunting qualities.
Appearance and Attributes
- Appearance:
- Large, muscular dog with a long, silky coat.
- Black coat with tan markings on the muzzle, cheeks, chest, legs, and underside.
- Brown eyes and long, drooping ears.
- The tail is long and feathery.
- Height:
- Male: 25-27 inches (63.5-69 cm)
- Female: 23-26 inches (58.5-66 cm)
- Weight:
- Male: 65-80 pounds (29-36 kg)
- Female: 55-70 pounds (25-32 kg)
- Lifespan: 10-12 years
- Attributes:
- Gentle, affectionate, and loyal.
- Good with children and other pets.
- Active and playful.
- Needs regular exercise.
- Easy to train but can be stubborn at times.
- Prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems.
UK Price of Gordon Setter
The price of a Gordon Setter puppy in the UK can range from £600 to £900. The cost will vary depending on the breeder, the puppy’s pedigree, and the location. Puppies from reputable breeders will typically be more expensive than puppies from less reputable breeders.
Here are some of the factors that can affect the price of a Gordon Setter puppy:
- The breeder: Reputable breeders typically charge more for their puppies than less reputable ones. This is because they invest more time and money into breeding healthy and well-socialised puppies.
- The pedigree: Puppies with a good pedigree will typically be more expensive than puppies without a pedigree. This is because pedigrees can help to ensure that the puppy is of good quality and has a low risk of health problems.
- The location: The price of a Gordon Setter puppy can also vary depending on the spot. Puppies in more popular areas, such as London, will typically be more expensive than puppies in less popular areas.
If you are considering getting a Gordon Setter puppy, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and find a reputable breeder. It would be best if you were prepared to pay a premium for a puppy from a good breeder.
Here are some additional costs to consider when owning a Gordon Setter:
- Food: A Gordon Setter requires high-quality food specifically designed for large dogs. This can cost around £50-£60 per month.
- Veterinary care: Regular veterinary care, including vaccinations and check-ups, can cost around £200 per year.
- Grooming: Gordon Setters have a long, thick coat that requires regular grooming, costing around £50-£60 per month.
- Toys and other expenses: You will also need to factor in the cost of toys, beds, and other accessories for your Gordon Setter, which can be around £100 per year.
Overall, the cost of owning a Gordon Setter can be significant. However, they can be wonderful companions if you are willing to invest time and money.
Pros and Cons of Owning this Breed
The Gordon Setter is a stunning dog that makes an excellent family pet. However, there are better choices for everyone. If you are looking for a low-maintenance dog, the Gordon Setter is not for you. But if you are willing to put in the time and effort, it can be a loyal and loving companion for many years.
Pros:
- Gentle, affectionate, and loyal.
- Good with children and other pets.
- Active and playful.
- Needs regular exercise.
- Easy to train but can be stubborn at times.
- Beautiful and elegant appearance.
- They are not as common as other dog breeds, so they can be unique and special.
Cons:
- Requires a lot of exercise.
- Prone to shedding.
- It is not hypoallergenic, so it may not be the best choice for people with allergies.
- They can be stubborn at times.
- Some health problems include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems.
- Owning a pet can be expensive due to the costs of food, vet care, grooming, and toys.
The Gordon Setter is a stunning dog breed characterised by numerous positive qualities. However, one must be aware of the potential downsides before getting one. If you are willing to put in the time and effort, the Gordon Setter can be a loyal and loving companion for many years.
Here are some additional things to consider before getting a Gordon Setter:
- Do you have enough time to exercise and play with a large dog?
- Are you prepared to deal with shedding?
- Are you willing to take your dog to the vet for regular check-ups and vaccinations?
- Can you afford the cost of owning a Gordon Setter?
If you answered yes to all of these questions, then the Gordon Setter may be the right dog for you. However, if you need further clarification, it is advisable to consult a reputable breeder or veterinarian. They can help you to decide if a Gordon Setter is the right fit for your lifestyle.
Temperament
The Gordon Setter is an energetic, affectionate, and loyal hunting dog that makes an excellent family companion when properly trained and exercised. This breed is very active and needs plenty of daily exercise and activities to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
Gordon Setters are intelligent and responsive dogs that aim to please their owners. They are eager to learn and generally pick up on training reasonably quickly. However, their high energy level makes them rambunctious and boisterous when young. Early socialisation and obedience training are essential for this breed.
The Gordon Setter is alert and curious, making it an excellent hunting dog. It has a strong prey drive and loves tracking and pursuing birds. When not hunting, its energetic nature shines through in its playfulness and exuberance. The Gordon Setter enjoys activities such as hiking, running, and playing fetch.
This breed tends to be friendly and outgoing. They get along well with children, other dogs, and strangers they meet. Gordon Setters thrive when around people and are not suited to being left alone for long periods. They form close bonds with their family.
The Gordon Setter is an intelligent and loyal companion when provided with proper activity levels and training. Their active, friendly nature makes them a delightful family dog for a busy household. They need plenty of exercise and interaction to keep their minds engaged and prevent problem behaviours from developing. With an outgoing and playful temperament, the Gordon Setter makes a beautiful sporting and family dog.
Education and Training
This Setter is a peaceful, quiet, and very accommodating dog. These qualities, combined with the outstanding loyalty and sense of belonging it tends to develop towards its family, make it a perfect dog even for first-timers.
The Setter Gordon’s temperament is generous and very expansive towards his owner, whom he loves viscerally. He does not tolerate being left alone, which makes him grumpy, timid and shy. It reveals a certain mistrust towards strangers, sometimes even evoking fear of other dogs.
For all these reasons, socialisation must be strongly considered from the puppy’s first months of life.
Here are some more details about educating and training a Gordon Setter:
- Intelligence & Trainability: The Gordon Setter is a bright and responsive breed that is eager to please its owner. They are ranked average in obedience & working intelligence compared to other species. With positive reinforcement training, they generally pick up on commands reasonably quickly.
- Early Socialisation: Early socialisation is critical for Gordon Setter. Exposing them to a wide variety of people, dogs, environments, and experiences when they are young will help build their confidence and prevent shyness or skittishness. Puppy kindergarten classes are highly recommended.
- Obedience Training: Formal obedience training is vital for this energetic and excitable breed. It will teach them essential commands and instil focus. Training should be consistent and start early. Gordon responds best to positive reinforcement techniques.
- Exercise Needs: Gordon Setters require 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise daily, which can be achieved through a combination of long walks, running, hiking, swimming, and playing fetch. Without enough activity, they can become restless and destructive. Obedience training can serve as mental and physical exercise.
- Hunting Instincts: Gordons have a strong hunting heritage. Many enjoy activities that tap into those instincts, like field trials, agility, scent work, and hunting birds. Not everyone needs to pursue happiness, though.
- Challenge Them: Gordons thrive when given activities that challenge their intelligence. Advanced obedience, agility, and interactive toys/puzzles are great outlets for their mental and physical energy.
Proper training and exercise will help manage the Gordon Setter’s high energy levels and bring out their best qualities as loyal, friendly, and devoted companions. Their training must be consistent and reinforced throughout their lifetime.
Is it Suitable for Families and Children?
The Gordon Setter can make an excellent family dog when properly trained, socialised, and exercised. Here are some key considerations regarding Gordons and families:
- Energetic Nature: Gordons’ high energy level means they need plenty of activity and exercise daily. Without outlets for their energy, they may become restless and destructive. Families must commit to providing vigorous daily exercise.
- Size: Gordon Setters are a large breed, ranging from 24 to 27 inches tall and weighing 45 to 80 pounds. Their size makes them best suited to homes with older, sturdier children rather than toddlers who could get accidentally knocked over.
- Child Supervision: Gordon Setters is usually friendly, patient, and playful with children. However, children should always be supervised in their interactions, especially when playing roughly or around food, where the dog may react instinctively.
- Socialisation: Early and extensive socialisation is critical for Gordons to develop good manners and temperament around children and strangers. Participation in puppy classes can be constructive.
- Prey Drive: Gordons may instinctively want to chase young children running and playing. Their hunting instincts need to be controlled.
- Training: Obedience training and establishing rules and structure in the home is essential for this intelligent but energetic breed. This allows them to be well-behaved family members.
- Attention Needs: Gordons crave attention and affection from their people. They don’t do well when frequently left alone for long periods.
With proper training, exercise, supervision, and socialisation, the Gordon Setter’s friendly, loyal, and playful nature can make them an excellent addition to an active family. Their high energy and size are something families need to consider seriously.
Care and Health
The Gordon Setter is a beautiful dog breed known for its elegance and energy, but he is prone to some health problems, such as:
- Bloat: This life-threatening condition occurs when the stomach twists on itself. It is most common in deep-chested dogs, such as Gordon Setters.
- Hip dysplasia: This is a condition in which the hip joint does not fit together correctly, which can lead to arthritis.
- Elbow dysplasia: This is a similar condition that affects the elbow joint.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): This hereditary eye disease causes gradual loss of vision.
- Cerebellar abiotrophy: This rare neurological disorder can cause tremors, instability, and other problems.
- Hypothyroidism: This condition occurs when the thyroid gland fails to produce sufficient hormones, resulting in weight gain, hair loss, and other related issues.
To ensure their well-being, consider the following care and health guidelines:
- Exercise: Gordon Setters are active dogs that require regular training to stay happy and healthy. To expend energy, engage them in activities like long walks, jogging, or play sessions.
- Diet: Provide a balanced diet appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations and portion sizes.
- Grooming: Gordon Setters have a beautiful, silky coat that needs regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain its shine. Brush their coat several times weekly and check for any signs of skin issues or parasites.
- Health Check-ups: Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to monitor your Gordon Setter’s overall health. Vaccinations, dental care, and preventive measures for common breed-specific health issues should be discussed with your vet.
- Training and Socialisation: Early training and socialisation are essential to ensure they grow into well-behaved dogs. Enrol in obedience classes and expose them to various people, animals, and situations.
- Love and Attention: Gordon Setters thrive on human companionship. Spend quality time with your dog, provide mental stimulation through toys and games, and offer plenty of affection.
- Safety: Ensure your home and outdoor areas are safe for your Gordon Setter. They are known to have a strong prey drive, so it is essential to secure fences and keep a close eye on them during outdoor activities.
Remember that each dog is unique, so tailor their care to their needs. Regular maintenance, attention, and a loving environment will contribute to a happy and healthy life for your Gordon Setter.
Feeding: The proper diet
The Gordon Setter has no problems feeding. You must decide whether to give wet or dry food. Meat should be the main ingredient in both versions.
If you prefer raw food or want to try or prepare it yourself, be sure to inform yourself carefully. So that your dog gets all the nutrients it needs.
Information on vegan feeding opinions on this topic is divided. However, it would be best to remember that your dog is descended from a wolf and was not created by evolution to be a pure herbivore.
Even if you do not eat meat, you should not ask your dog to do so. However, you can still be responsible when buying food and pay attention to sustainability.
The frequency with which you should feed your dog depends on its age. Puppies and young dogs should have four meals a day, while older dogs typically require only two. The idea that you should only feed an adult dog once daily must be updated.
The amount of food depends on the dog’s level of activity. The feeding instructions provided by the manufacturer are only a rough guide. Therefore, check your Gordon’s weight regularly. If sufficiently stimulated, he is unlikely to gain too much weight.
Immediately after meals, you should accustom your Gordon Setter to resting so that he can digest his food properly. This reduces the risk of the dreaded gastric torsion to which large dogs are particularly prone.
Grooming, Care of the Gordon Setter
The Gordon Setter has a medium-length coat and requires regular brushing. It is best to use a standard dog brush. Tools that remove the undercoat can damage the upper jacket and should only be used by professionals.
Whether your dog should be bathed is also a controversial issue. In principle, you can clean your Gordon once a month. Dogs should use a mild shampoo for this purpose. However, a thorough brushing after walks is sufficient.
Like all setters, the Gordon has drooping ears. These can easily catch fire. This happens quickly, especially in hot and humid weather. It is, therefore, vital that you check your dog’s ears regularly.
If they are dirty, clean them carefully with a specialised cleaning lotion. If you cannot do this, your veterinarian will be happy to show you how or do it for you.
You must also ensure that the claws do not become too long. This can happen if your dog primarily walks on soft ground or can no longer take long walks due to age.
In this case, you must shorten your dog’s claw with special pliers. This work also requires some practice to avoid injury. Again, ask your vet or groomer for advice if you are unsure.
Final thoughts
Here’s a summary of key points to consider if you’re thinking of getting a Gordon Setter:
The Gordon Setter can make a wonderful family dog for an active household prepared to meet its high activity needs with plenty of daily vigorous exercise. Its friendly, loyal temperament and playfulness with children are appealing. However, its larger size means it may accidentally knock over tiny toddlers, so supervision is vital.
This energetic breed requires 1-2 hours of exercise daily, including activities such as long walks, running, and swimming. Without sufficient outlets for their energy, they can become destructive or develop neurotic tendencies. Training and mental stimulation are also crucial for this intelligent breed.
Early and extensive socialisation is critical to developing a stable, well-rounded Gordon Setter who is comfortable in various environments and around new people. Participation in puppy classes can kickstart this process. Establishing rules, structure, and obedience training from a young age is also essential.
Gordon Setters thrive when they can be close to their family. They don’t do well when left alone for long periods regularly. They have a strong prey drive that needs to be controlled around children or other pets.
A Gordon Setter can be a delightful family companion, but it requires an active household committed to providing adequate exercise, training, socialisation, and attention. When these high needs are met, they become loyal and friendly dogs that adapt well to family life. Their energy and size are something families must seriously consider.
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