Considered to be
one of the most reliable bird dogs in the sporting group, the Gordon
Setter can run and hunt for an entire day if left up to him. With
seemingly endless energy and always on the looking for a bird, this
breed needs constant time outside in large, open land to roam and
hunt.
The Gordon Setter
not only makes an excellent hunter, they also make fun, enthusiastic
pets that thrive on the company of people. This breed may at times be
a bit more protective than other setters when it comes to its “pack”,
but because of this trait the Gordon Setter makes an excellent watch
dog.
A Brief History Of
The Gordon Setter
As early as the
1600s, the Black and Tan Setter was in existence in Scotland. Then,
sometime during the late 1800s, we see that the breed established
itself as the Gordon Castle Setter. The reason for the name reference
was due to the Fourth Duke of Gordon, who was a big fan of the dog
and had many of them living in his Castle.
Even after the
passing of the Fourth Duke of Gordon, continuous efforts were made to
breed only the finest of setters at the Gordon Castle. The breed’s
name was soon changed back to its original name, the Black and Tan
Setter, at around the year 1900, but the English Kennel Club restored
the name Gordon Setter when it made the breed an official member of
the organization.
The Gordon Setter
first made its way to the United States sometime during the middle
1800s. In fact, they were among one of the first breeds to become
recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1892, and remains one
of the favorites of the sporting group with hunters that desire a
talented, one-man shooting partner.
Upkeep Requirements
For The Gordon Setter
Like all sporting
dogs, the Gordon Setter must have plenty of daily exercise. Strenuous
activity is preferred as this is one dog with an insatiable appetite
for action. Gordon Setters also may become overweight quickly if kept
cooped up all day. For this reason alone they are not suited for
small apartment living.
These dogs are able
to live outside if need be, so long as the climate is temperate, but
like all loving family pets, they should have ample time to spend
with the family; sleeping indoors at night is ideal. And with its
long, lustrous coat, the Gordon Setter needs regular brushing every
two to three days.
Health Concerns
Major health
problems that seem to run common with the Gordon Setter are CHD and
gastric torsion. Minor concerns include elbow dysplasia,
hypothyroidism, cerebellar abiotrophy, and PRA. Veterinarians suggest
that this breed be specifically tested for possible elbow, hip, eye,
and thyroid problems. The average lifespan for a healthy Gordon
Setter is approximately ten to twelve years.
History
The Gordan Setter
is a scenting dog. He was bred for hunting grouse and other game
birds. His territory was the Scottish moors. They say he was derived
from the Setting Spaniel. This breed got its name from Duke Alexander
Gordan the 4th because he had a kennel of them at his castle close to
the Spey River and Fochabers located in the United Kingdom.
This breed was
first called the black and tan setter during the 1600′s and was
located in Scotland. In the latter 1700′s it became the Gordan
Castle Setter. About 1900, the breeds name was reversed to the black
and tan setter, though when the English Kennel Club registered this
breed, the name was changed to the Gordan Setter.
General Looks
The muscles are
highly developed and this dog has a square-like build. It is spare
and tall. The front legs are straight and big boned. The hindquarters
are powerful and well muscled. The paws are quite arched. The eyes
are oval shaped and brown in color. The big ears are folded, thin,
and ride low on the head. The muzzle is wide and very long. The nose
is black. It has a short and tapered tail. It has longer fur on the
ears, chest, and belly.
Is This Your Breed?
The Gordan Setter
requires a lot of exercise each day and a fenced yard. The fur must
be groomed regularly or it will mat. It is usually fine with older
kids, though its enthusiasm may be too much for small children. Clean
the ear passages often to divert infection. The fur between the toes
need trimming and trim excessive fur from the ears.
Coat
The coat is
straight, soft, and shiny. It can be a bit wavy.
Color
The color is black
and tan. The markings are either mahogany or chestnut.
Locomotion
The movement swings
freely with powerful drive.
Personality
The Gordan Setter
has a tendency to be standoffish to strangers and is sometimes
hostile to other dogs. It can be jealous over other pets; it is best
to adapt it to other pets while it is a pup. Socializing while this
breed is young is recommended. Training should be approached with
patience and affection.
It is affectionate
to its owner and family. It is energetic, alert, happy, self-assured,
smart, faithful, and strong-willed.
