GROUP: Gundog    SIZE: Large    ORIGIN: United Kingdom

The Gordon Setter is one of two gundog breeds native to Scotland. The Gordon is a fine gundog, originally bred to find, then set (or point) to birds, usually grouse. The bird is then flushed out and shot, while the dog remains motionless. For this work the dog needs an excellent nose to scent game, and a willingness to work consistently. The Gordon does not fit the role of a guard dog, although it will not accept strangers as reedily as other setters.

ORIGIN
Once called the Black and Tan Setter, the Gordon Setter has its origins in the early seventeenth century. He takes his modern name from Alexander, the fourth Duke of Gordon (1743 — 1 827) because of the patronage of this emerging breed and the renowned excellence of the setter strain at Gordon Castle. Not all early setters were black and tan but black, white and tan.

GENERAl. APPEARANCE
The Gordon is a stylish dog, built on galloping lines, having a thoroughbred appearance consistent with its build, which can be compared to a weight-carrying hunter. It must have symmetrical conformation throughout. The head is deep rather than broad and the dark brown eyes gives the Gordon a keen, intelligent expression.

The coat should be a deep shining coal black with markings of chestnut red (tan) over the eyes, on the sides of the muzzle, on the throat and two large clear spots on the chest. The tan colouring is also on the inside of the hind legs, on the forelegs up to the elbows and around the vent. The coat is short and fine on the head, front legs and tips of the ears. Of moderate length, it should be flat and free from curl or wave on all other parts of the body. Feathering on the upper portion of the ears is long and silky, on the back of the legs, long and fine and fringes on the belly may extend to the chest and throat. A very small white spot is permissible on the chest.

SIZE
Dogs are 66cm, weighing 29.5kg; bitches 62cm and weigh 25.5kg.

TEMPERAMENT
The Gordon’s temperament is bold, outgoing and of a kindly, even disposition. They are gentle with children, sagacious, wise, trustworthy and when working, methodical and with a retentive memory. The Gordon has an extreme, almost fanatical devotion to their owner, which tends to make them ‘ one man dogs”, although they readily accept all members of the family. The Gordon is suited to living indoors or out, but should never be left to be just a backyard dog.

CARE AND GROOMING
The Gordon Setter needs regular brushing and bathing. Ears and feet should be kept clean and trimmed, especially in spring when grass seeds can cause problems. Weekly nail trimming is also advised. Basic obedience training is recommended. This breed suffers few health problems as long as practical care is taken.

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