Gordon Setter Breed Guide
Also known as: Black and Tan Setter
Scotland's black and tan beauties, Gordon Setters are loyal sporting dogs whose intelligence and striking appearance appeal to dedicated sporting enthusiasts.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Large
Weight
20-36 kg
Lifespan
10-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Large
Weight
20-36 kg
Lifespan
10-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
About Gordon Setters
Developed in Scotland during the 18th century by the Duke of Gordon, the Gordon Setter was bred as a gun dog for hunting game birds in the Scottish Highlands. Their distinctive black and tan coat and methodical hunting style made them favourites among Scottish sportsmen.
Their long, silky coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting and professional grooming every few months. Gordon Setters are gentle and affectionate, known for their calm indoor behaviour and enthusiastic outdoor energy.
They are devoted to their families and generally friendly with strangers and other dogs. Gordon Setters need substantial daily exercise and excel at activities that engage their hunting instincts. While generally healthy, potential owners should be aware of hip dysplasia, bloat, and eye conditions that can affect the breed.
Complete Care Guide for Gordon Setters
Expert advice on keeping your Gordon Setter healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Providing optimal nutrition for your Gordon Setter requires careful attention to both meal composition and feeding practices. These energetic sporting dogs thrive on high-quality, nutrient-dense diets that support their active lifestyle and unique dietary needs. A well-balanced feeding plan should incorporate premium proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates to maintain sustained energy levels throughout the day.
Due to their deep-chested build, Gordon Setters face an increased risk of bloat, making proper feeding management crucial. Rather than offering a single large meal, divide their daily food allowance into two or three smaller portions served at regular intervals. This feeding strategy helps minimise the risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus while ensuring steady energy levels.
Maintaining appropriate portion control proves essential, as Gordon Setters can become overweight without proper monitoring. Calculate daily caloric requirements based on your dog's age, size, and activity level, adjusting portions accordingly to maintain a healthy weight. Special attention should be paid to incorporating omega-3 fatty acids and quality proteins that support their distinctive coat and overall health.
How healthy is your Gordon Setter?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Gordon Setters from our community of pet parents
Gordon Setters are known to be intelligent, affectionate, and confident dogs. They are eager to please and form strong bonds with their families. Despite their size, they are quite gentle and generally get along well with children. However, they can be wary of strangers, so it's essential to socialise them from a young age.
Dog Breeds Similar to Gordon Setter
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Gordon Setter
Irish Setter
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English Setter
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