Choosing a Gordon Setter

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The Gordon setter is the largest, heaviest and slowest of the setter breeds. This tough dog is built to work all day.

History and Origin

The Gordon setter, once called the Gordon Castle setter, was originally developed in Scotland in the 1600s and called the black-and-tan setter. The Gordon setter was used as a Scottish gun dog that tracked and pointed small gaming birds. They gained popularity when the fourth Duke of Gordon took an interest in the dog in the early 1820s. Soon after, the dogs became known as the Gordon setter. The first pair of Gordons came to America in 1842. Eventually, the breed became a beloved pet and excellent gun dog. The American Kennel Club recognizes the breed in the Sporting group.

Appearance and Size

The Gordon setter stands 23 to 27 inches from the shoulder and weighs 45 to 80 pounds. The Gordon has a strong structure with a rounded, massive head.

The nose is black and the eyes are brown with the look of intelligence. The ears are flat, pendulous and pointed, and the tail is straight and heavily feathered. The breed has a silky, wavy feathered coatHerbal Groom Shampoo 12 oz
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Personality

The Gordon setter is a strong-willed, sensitive gun dog that is loyal, obedient and devoted to the household. They are affectionate and make an excellent companion.

Home and Family Relations

The Gordon setter is an excellent dog for both the general sportsman and for the busy household. They are a tireless hunterPlush Farm Friends 16 - (Assorted Animals)
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Training

The Gordon setter is intelligentRed Kong
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GroomingEvolution Self Cleaning Slicker
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The Gordon setter needs daily brushing to keep burrs and tangles out of the coat. The hair needs to be clipped from the feet and monthly nail trims are recommended.

Special Care

The Gordon setter needs daily exerciseLaunch A Ball
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Common Diseases and Disorders

Gastric torsion (bloat) is a life-threatening sudden illness associated with the stomach filling with air and twisting.

Hip dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joint that results in painBiocaine 4oz
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Hypothyroidism results when the thyroid gland does not function adequately. Without enough thyroid hormone, illness can occur.

Epilepsy is a seizure disorder that develops between the ages of 2 and 5 years.

In addition, Gordon setters are also prone to various eye problems.

The life expectancy of the Gordon setter is 12 to 13 years.


We realize that each dog is unique and may display other characteristics. This profile provides generally accepted breed information only.