DESCRIPTION

The Gordon Setter is a good-sized, sturdily built, black and tan dog, well muscled, with plenty of bone and substance, but active, upstanding and stylish, appearing capable of doing a full day’s work in the field. He has a strong, rather short back, with well sprung ribs and a short tail. The head is fairly heavy and finely chiseled. His bearing is intelligent, noble, and dignified, showing no signs of shyness or viciousness. Clear colors and straight or slightly waved coat are correct. He suggests strength and stamina rather than extreme speed. Symmetry and quality are most essential. A dog well balanced in all points is preferable to one with outstanding good qualities and defects. A smooth, free movement, with high head carriage is typical.

HISTORY

It is said that the Setter was evolved from the old "Setting Spaniel" and its main function was to work. These were the days before "Dog Shows"! At that time Setters came in all colours there were some preferences for one colour over another but as early as the 17th century "black and fallow" dogs are mentioned Alexander, the fourth Duke of Gordon (1743-1827), established his famous kennel of wonderful working setters at Gordon Castle near Fochabers not far from the River Spey in UK. It seems certain that these setters were black, white and tan, black and white, and black and tan. The Duke was believed to prefer the Gordons that were black and tan. If this is so he would have encouraged the breeding of this colour in preference to the others. It's a known fact that there were black and tan setters at Gordon Castle as early as 1825.

History has it that the Duke would not shoot over his setters until they were 5 years old, as they were very wild when they were young and slow in maturing. Most breeders and Gordon owners would say the Gordon Setter has remained unchanged in this respect today.

Alexander the 4th Duke died in 1827 and George the 5th Duke (and the last Duke of Gordon) in 1836. During these 9 years the kennel was reduced. Dogs were probably given to various friends and possibly many went to the Duke's keepers. At the dispersal sale at Tattersalls in July 1836 only eleven setters were sold (maybe the remainder of his kennel) of these eleven setters only one (Duke a 5 years old male) was black and tan. Five were black and white, one black, one black white and tan, one red and white and two black and white 4 months old pups.

TEMPERAMENT

Gordon Setters are intensely loyal to their owners but can take a few minutes to warm to strangers. They are good family dogs, laid-back and loving, though not recommended with small children as they can be boisterous.

They are known as one of the slowest maturing dogs. They will continue to show puppy-like characteristics well into the older years.

Gordons are usually quite passive and seem happy lying around sleeping all day. However, when out on a walk they are frisky and in the countryside seem to be able to run for hours. They require 60 to 80 minutes of exercise a day, though care must be taken not to over-exercise young dogs (under 18 months) to avoid joint problems in later life.

This breed, in particular is sensitive but kindly, and need gentle but firm handling. Any nervous tendencies can be cured by early socialization, which is very important.

Breeds

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