Gordon Setter Dog Breed | Gordon Setters - Bests of Breed
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Gordon Setter - Dog Breed
The Breed History
Written records originate in the early 1600s when setting dogs of exceptional endurance were described. This type of dog was of Scottish origin, and was bred as a one-man gundog. The word "Setters" was used because these dogs were known to "set" when they had the prey in site. The set was a semi-seated position. The black and tans were a favorite of the Duke of Gordon in the early 1800s and they are thought to take their name from this man. Gordon setters first came to North America in the mid 1800s. They were first registered with the AKC in 1892.
Breeding for Function
They are popular both as a show dog and a reliable hunting dog. Field lines are slightly smaller in stature. Gordons excel at pointing and retrieving birds. They are excellent scent trackers, and are noted to be slow but steady.
Physical Characteristics
Height at Withers: female 23-26" (58.5-66 cm), male 24-27" (61-68.5 cm)
Weight: females 50-70 lb (22.5-32 kg), males 55-80lb (25-36.5 kg). Weights vary widely within the breed.
Coat: All dogs are a glossy black with rich mahogany to chestnut markings. Their hair is slightly wavy or straight, fine-textured with long hairs, and on the tail they have moderate feathers. Junctions of markings with the coat are clearly delineated, not smudgy. Acceptable markings have very specific size and distribution in this breed. Regular grooming is important and they are considered an average shedder. Red coat color: Caused by an autosomal recessive gene (ee). Normally tan markings can be differentiated, especially when viewed in sunlight. Recessive e allele occurs in low frequency in the breed, and can be tested for by VetGen.
Longevity: 10-12 years.
Points of Conformation: The head is chiseled with a strong, square long muzzle and low set, heavy ears. His sturdy bone and robust, athletic build suits his reputation for stamina. The back is strong and short, with a moderately sloping topline. The thorax is deep with moderate girth, and the tail tapers not quite at the level of the tarsus, and is carried close to horizontal. Dewclaws may be removed. They have compact feet with arched toes and straight strong limbs. Their gait is characterized by long easy strides, and it is normal to see the tail flag while going. Legs arc in a straight flowing motion.
Recognized Behavior Issues and Traits
Reported breed traits include: They are aloof with strangers, but show devoted loyalty to home and family. They are intelligent, alert and fearless and should be socialized early. They are generally good around children. Gordons require plenty of exercise. Training should also start early because like most hunting breeds, they have a streak of independence. They should not be allowed off-leash unless fenced. They have a tendency to bark, and if left alone for extended periods, may resort to boredom digging or chewing.
Normal Physiologic Variations
None reported
Drug Sensitivities
None reported
Inherited Diseases
Hip Dysplasia: Polygenically inherited trait causing degenerative joint disease and hip arthritis. OFA reports 19.5% affected. French Kennel Club screening shows 30.8% affected between 2000-2006.