by Betty Carew

Created on: August 02, 2009   Last Updated: August 03, 2009

The Gordon setter is what you want in a dog with all the good qualities rolled up in one. Ever since they were discovered in Scotland in the 1600's they have proven to be man's best friend and a child's best playmate. Gordon setters were used as a hunting dog in the beginning and have escalated to the sports breed group. Their grooming is no more than an average dog, their temperament is wonderful, their training is easy and they make the ideal companion. Let's take a closer look at this amazing breed.

Gordon setter's markings

The Gordon setter is also known as black and tans and sports a coal black coat with distinctive markings in a rich chestnut or mahogany color that is found on their paws and lower legs, vents, throat and muzzles. You will find one spot above the eyes and two spots on the chest. For show dogs they will allow a small amount of white on the chest only. Tan, red or buff Gordon setters are not accepted for showing. Their coat has a straight hair that is slightly wavy and hangs long and silky on their body. They have chest, stomach, ear, leg and tail featherings. The Gordon setter is the heaviest of the setters with the males weighing up to 80 pounds and they grow to a height of approximately 27 inches.

Temperament

This is where the Gordon setter shines with a temperament that is alert, happy, interested and very confident. They are fearless when it comes to fighting a foe and they are very intelligent. You will not find another dog that will be as loyal and affectionate to their owners. When they are puppies they can be quite active and boisterous and may not be suitable for very small children due to their size where they can knock over a very small child from their exuberance.

They need an owner that possesses a firm but gentle hand. They are better if they are raised from puppies, with consistent training. If a Gordon setter is your choice of dog then you better be prepared to see the puppy in him long after they are suppose to be mature, sometimes they exhibit their puppy like nature well into their fourth year. They are the family's best friend and friendly with everyone that enters the home.

Health of the Gordon setter

Just like any breed the Gordon setter comes with his share of health issues. They can suffer from such conditions as hip dysplasia but not as much as other large breeds, hypothyroidism, gastric torsion (bloat), and different eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. You can expect your Gordon setter to live anywhere from 10 to 12 years.

Grooming

Gordon setter needs to have daily brushing to prevent their coat from tangling or matting. They also need professional cutting from time to time although if you're good at cutting it can be done at home. Gordon setters should never be bathed often as their skin is very sensitive to washing. The nails will need to be clipped on regular bases along with the hair on their feet trimmed.

Setters can make the ideal pet but they don't do well in an apartment. They should be exercised on a regular bases and really enjoy bike rides with them running by your side. They enjoy the backyard and would be quite happy to stay outside all day. They crave human attention so be sure you can give your Gordon setter all he needs to keep him happy and healthy.

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