| Alternative Name
Gun Dog of Scotland
Basic Info
Gordon Setters are a medium sized breed of dog, a
member of the setter family that also includes the more
common Irish Setters and English Setters and the
less-common Irish Red and White Setter. While the
purposes of the three breeds are similar, there are many
distinctions that make each of the four breeds
physically and behaviourally unique. They are coal-black
with tan features, in comparison to Irish Setters, which
are red, and English Setters, which are white with
speckles. This breed have tan on their feet and lower
legs, vents, and muzzles, two spots above the eyes and
two distinctive tan spots on their chests. Some white is
allowed on the chest but the smaller the better. Red,
while uncommon, occasionally show up in litters due to
the expression of a recessive red gene. Their coat is
long and silky on chest, ears, stomach, and leg
feathering, and slightly wavy. They are the heaviest of
the setter breeds, with males reaching 27 in at the
withers. Rather than being built for speed, they move
with determination and stamina. Historically, they did
not have the long, flowing coat as seen today. In the
early 1800s, they were not necessarily black and tan.
Dogs from the Duke of Gordon kennel were found in black
and tan, black and white, and black, white, and tan.
Health
This breed generally lives about 10 to 12 years.
Behavior
Setters are often said to be stupid. In reality,
however, they are very intelligent in being able to
figure out how to get out of enclosures and the like.
The perception of stupidity probably relates to their
fairly contemptuous attitude towards conventional dog
obedience. Gordon Setters are intensely loyal to their
owners but can take a few minutes to warm to strangers.
They are good family dogs, laid-back and loving, though
not recommended with small children as they can be
boisterous. They are usually quite passive and seem
happy lying around sleeping all day. However, when out
on a walk they are frisky and in the countryside seem to
be able to run for hours. They require 60 to 80 minutes
of exercise a day, though care must be taken not to
over-exercise young dogs (under 18 months) to avoid
joint problems in later life. Gordons in particular are
sensitive but kindly, and need gentle but firm handling.
Any nervous tendencies can be cured by early
socialization, which is very important.
Origin
United Kingdom
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