The Gordon setter is a medium-large sporting dog breed from Scotland with a silky, medium-length double coat that comes in black with tan accents. There’s feathering on the ears, chest, stomach, legs, and tail. And, typically, the tan is on the muzzle and throat, lower legs, eyebrows, and rear.
The breed’s coat served as protection from terrain and weather while this dog served as a hunting companion in Scotland. Today, these dogs are still natural athletes, and they tend to be quite devoted to their humans. They also need a lot of space for physical activity daily, so they may not be the right choice for pet parents living in apartments or homes without yards.
Learn more about the Gordon setter’s history, temperament, and needs.
Group: Sporting
Height: 23 to 26 inches (female), 24 to 27 inches (male)
Weight: 45 to 70 pounds (female), 55 to 80 pounds (male)
Coat: Medium-length double coat
Coat Color: Black and tan
Life Span: 12 to 13 years
Temperament: Energetic, affectionate, courageous
Hypoallergenic: No
Origin: Scotland
Gordon setters generally have a loyal and affectionate temperament. They are quite smart and eager to please. A high energy level also helps to shape their personality, and they need lots of exercise every day.
The Gordon setter is one of four setter dog breeds. Even though they might be compared to the Irish setter and English setter, there are some differences. For example, while the Irish setter has a mahogany coat and comes from Ireland, the English setter has a freckled coat and comes from the U.K., and the Gordon setter has a black and tan coat and comes from Scotland. Also, the Gordon setter is the heaviest of all the setter breeds.
The Gordon setter can trace its ancestors back to the 1600s, but the breed really started to take shape during the 1800s. People in Scotland and around the United Kingdom wanted a bird-hunting dog that would “set,” or quietly lie down when they located prey. Different setter breeds arose, with the Gordon being the heaviest of the bunch, suitable for the rugged landscape in Scotland.
Alexander Gordon, the fourth Duke of Gordon, bred what were then called black and tan setters at the kennels of Gordon Castle. These dogs initially resembled the English setter. But adding other breeds, including black and tan collies, bloodhounds, black pointers, and black setters, helped to shape the modern Gordon setter.
The breed first arrived in the United States in 1842. And the American Kennel Club first recognized it in 1878. The breed’s official name went from the black and tan setter to the Gordon Castle setter and finally to the Gordon setter in 1924.
Plan to spend ample time exercising this athletic breed. Gordon setters also need regular grooming to prevent tangles and mats. And they should receive training and socialization from a young age.
Spend at least two hours per day exercising your Gordon setter. These dogs were bred to run and have good endurance. You can meet their exercise needs by letting them participate in various activities, such as:
Dog sports also can provide mental challenges as well as physical activity.
Gordon setters do best with a house and yard, rather than an apartment. They are large dogs, and they ideally should have a secure space where they can run freely every day.
Be sure to always keep your dog on a leash or in a securely fenced area when outdoors. This breed has a high prey drive and might ignore your recall efforts if they see prey to chase.
Also, these dogs can develop separation anxiety and need your interaction and attention, so don’t leave them alone for long periods, whether indoors or outside. Instead, play with them and be there to supervise.
Brush your dog’s coat at least once or twice per week to remove loose fur and prevent mats and tangles. Pay special attention to the areas with feathering, as they tend to tangle easily. Expect periods of higher shedding often in the spring and fall, during which you should increase your brushing frequency.
Bathe your dog roughly once a month, depending on how dirty they get. Check their nails monthly to see whether they’re due for a trim. Plus, look in their ears at least weekly for wax buildup, debris, and irritation. And brush their teeth every day.
Training and socialization should ideally begin when your Gordon setter is a puppy. A puppy class can help to teach your dog basic commands and manners. This breed typically responds well to training, especially when positive reinforcement methods are used.
Moreover, allow your Gordon setter to meet different people and other dogs from an early age. This will help to curb their reserved nature around strangers. The breed is moderately good with other dogs, but might perceive smaller household pets as prey.
The Gordon setter is generally healthy, but is prone to some hereditary health issues, including:
Gordon setters might eat up to 3 cups of food per day, split into multiple meals. Always have fresh water accessible for your Gordon setter. And provide a quality, nutritionally balanced canine diet. Discuss both the type of food and the amount with your veterinarian.
It’s typical to feed two measured meals per day. This breed is prone to bloat, and an option to help prevent this is feeding smaller, more frequent meals.
If you’re looking for a Gordon setter puppy from a reputable breeder, expect to pay around $800 to $2,000, on average.
Gordon setters are a somewhat common dog breed, so it is possible to find one in need of a home at an animal shelter or rescue group. You just might have to wait for longer than you would with the highly popular breeds. See whether you can get your name on a breed wait list at your local shelters.
For further information to help connect you with a Gordon setter, check out:
The Gordon setter can make a lovely companion for active families and individuals who want an intelligent, high-energy dog. If you have the right type of home with enough space, this breed might be the right fit.
As with any dog breed, do thorough research first before bringing home a Gordon setter to ensure that the breed is right for your lifestyle. Talk to Gordon setter pet parents, rescue groups, reputable breeders, and vets. And spend some time around the breed too if you can.
If you’re interested in similar breeds, check out:
There’s a whole world of potential dog breeds out there—with a little research, you can find the right one to bring home!
In general, Gordon setters with proper training and socialization are moderately good with kids, as they can be patient and gentle. But they might be too energetic for a household with young children.
Gordon setters don’t bark a lot, but they do have a protective nature, so they might bark to alert you of something that they think you should know about.
The Gordon setter is an uncommon breed in the United States. This might impact how easy it is to buy or adopt one.
Common Injuries in Dogs and How to Treat Them
Learn about the most common injuries in dogs—whether in their legs, spine, tail, or eye—and how you should treat them with this helpful list.How to Calm a Panting Dog
Learn how to calm a dog’s breathing when they’re panting or breathing too fast. Dogs may breathe fast for several reasons. Know when to call the vet and how to determine if it’s an emergency.Common Antibiotics for Dogs
Antibiotics are commonly used in dogs to treat a variety of infections. Learn about some common types of antibiotics for dogs, what conditions they treat, potential side effects, and safety information.Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, or PBGV for short, is a small, shaggy-coated scent hound from France. Known for their charming personality and cuddly appearance, Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens are outgoing, confident, and proud dogs.Golden Retriever: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care
Learn about the golden retriever, one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. It is known for its loyalty, enthusiasm, and sweet, bright eyes.Becoming a Show Dog: Getting Started
Do you have the perfect puppy? Have you considered showing her in a dog show? There's much more to showing than showing up! Here's how to get started.How to Train Your Dog to Go to Its Place
Training your dog to go to its bed or place is a great way to get it to settle down quickly. Learn how to get your dog to follow the place command.Myths and Superstitions About Black Cats
Black cats have played a major role in folklore, superstition, and mythology for centuries. Learn the origins behind these black cat stories.Devon Rex: Cat Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care
The Devon rex is a unique breed known for their unique appearance, including large ears, big eyes, and a short, wavy coat. They are active and friendly cats who make a great fit for most families. Learn more about the Devon rex cat breed.Birman: Cat Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care
The Birman is a medium- to large-sized cat breed that has a stocky body and a quiet demeanor. Learn more about this kind-natured cat.Reasons Why Your Cat Acts Crazy and How to Stop It
Cats do some strange things. Learn the reasons why your cat may run around acting crazy and find out if it's something you should be concerned about.Why Cats Eat Litter and How to Stop It
Eating litter is not uncommon in kittens, but it may be a sign of health problems in adult cats.How to Discipline Your Cat the Right Way
Cats are mischievous but sometimes they also misbehave. Learn how to safely and effectively discipline a cat and positively change their behavior.Ringworm in Cats
Ringworm in cats is a fungus similar to athlete's foot in humans. Learn the causes, treatment, and prevention.Signs of Heat in Cats
A cat in heat will show several physical and behavioral signs. Here's how to tell if your cat is in heat and how to care for her during this time. Learn the signs and how to prevent pregnancy, even if her cycle has begun.What to Do if Your Cat Is Snoring
Cat snoring can happen for several reasons. Find out if your cat's snoring is normal or caused by a medical issue. Know when to call the vet about your cat snoring.Is Lavender Safe for Cats?
Are cats safe around lavender? Find out how lavender affects cats and what to do if your cat is exposed to it.Hyperlipidemia in Cats
Hyperlipidemia is an abnormally high level of fat in a cat's bloodstream. Learn the causes, treatment, and prevention.275 Best Male Cat Names for Your Handsome Kitty
There are plenty of male cat names to choose from if you’re looking to add a new tomcat to the family. Here are 275 of our favorite choices for male cat names.Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken Feet?
What are the potential health benefits of chicken feet for dogs? What are the risks?