Gordon setter

Overall description of the breed

The Gordon Setter has its origins in Scotland, however, the exact identity of its ancestors remains largely unclear and challenging to trace. For nearly a century, it was known as the Black and Tan Setter due to its bicolor coat. Some historians argue that it may have resulted from a cross between the Collie and the English Setter. However, it's not excluded that the Saint Hubert or even the Irish Setter contributed to the breed's creation.

The first Scottish setters emerged during the 19th century, brought to prominence by the Duke Alexander Gordon, who claimed to be the founder of the Gordon Setter. A member of the British nobility and a devoted canine enthusiast, he aimed to create a dog endowed with endurance, liveliness, and determination, naturally skilled for hunting.

The challenge was successfully met in the mid-20th century, with the official recognition of the breed by the International Cynological Federation, which definitively registered it on May 28, 1963. Its current standard was last revised on April 4, 2016.

The Gordon Setter belongs to the category of medium-sized dogs and bears a striking resemblance to its close English cousin. It possesses a rather sleek and agile physique, while retaining an athletic appearance. The length of its body is equal to its height at the withers, resulting in a square outline, with a slightly curved backline at the level of the loins.

Its chest is narrow and well-descended, adorned with a long fringe of hair on the chest, brisket, and belly. The head is deep, always longer than wide, with a slightly domed skull, a thick muzzle that tapers toward the nose, and a well-defined stop. Its pendant ears, of medium size and rounded tips, are well-furnished with hair and relatively thin.

Its round, dark, and shiny eyes give it a keen and intelligent expression. The tail is of good length, with hair fringes, and is carried horizontally in line with its back. Its semi-long hair is smooth, silky, and lays flat over its entire body. The breed's standard admits only one color: black and tan.

The Gordon Setter was specifically bred for hunting, and its combination of intelligence and agility has allowed it to develop specific skills. It was primarily used to locate birds and guide them towards nets, making the hunter's task easier. Despite its excellent predatory ability, it remains an affectionate companion and is well-suited to family life.

Dynamic, playful, and sociable, it is extremely loyal to its owners and needs to spend time with them to feel fulfilled. Its cohabitation with other dogs generally goes well, but it's advisable to monitor its behavior towards small animals, as its hunting instincts are very pronounced. Balanced and versatile, the Gordon Setter enjoys family playtime, is gentle with children, and obedient with adults.

It is an ideal pet for nature lovers, as it enjoys long walks and extended hunting sessions. Faithful and loyal, this Scottish pointing dog suits a wide range of people, bringing joy and energy to its entire social group.

In adulthood, the Gordon Setter weighs between 25 and 30 kg (55 to 66 lb) and measures between 58 and 64 cm (23" to 25") at the withers for males, and between 56 and 62 cm (22" to 24.5") for females.