Gordon Setter
Description
Ever wonder what makes the Gordon Setter stand out among other setters? This breed hails from Scotland's rugged Highlands, originally bred in the early 1600s as a bird dog. They carry a striking black and tan coat, sometimes with red or tan variations, and are one of the largest setter breeds, weighing between 45 and 80 pounds. Their history is rich, named after the 4th Duke of Gordon, who helped popularize them in the 19th century. Gordons are known for their independent streak and stubbornness, which means training takes patience and consistency. They thrive with gentle, positive reinforcement and usually get along well with kids and other dogs if socialized early. Their keen nose is second only to the Bloodhound, making them excellent scent trackers. Wouldn't you want a dog that’s both a loyal companion and a skilled hunter?
Grooming
The Gordon Setter sports a medium-length double coat that needs regular upkeep to stay in top shape. They shed heavily during spring and fall, so brushing three times a week is a must, with extra sessions during shedding seasons. Using an undercoat rake helps remove dead hair trapped beneath the topcoat. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks keeps their coat clean, and blow-drying afterward not only dries thoroughly but also helps reduce shedding. - Brush 3× weekly; increase during heavy shedding - Use an undercoat rake to clear dead fur - Bathe every 4–6 weeks - Blow-dry to aid de-shedding Pro tip: Focus on the feathering on their legs and tail, which can mat if neglected. Their black and tan coat doesn’t require special stain care, but regular grooming keeps those rich colors vibrant and healthy-looking.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
How much exercise does a Gordon Setter really need? Plan for about 100 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions. This breed loves to explore and sniff, so walks should include time for scent work and mental stimulation. A typical routine might be a brisk 40-minute morning walk followed by a 60-minute evening stroll with some off-leash play if safe. Example routine: - Morning: 40-minute brisk walk with light training cues - Evening: 60-minute walk including scent games and playtime Consistency is key, as Gordons can get restless without enough activity. Mixing in varied routes and allowing them to follow scents keeps walks interesting and taps into their natural hunting instincts.
Boarding
Boarding a Gordon Setter means providing plenty of space and mental engagement. A crate size of at least 48 inches is recommended to accommodate their size comfortably. These dogs enjoy active play sessions, so plan for two energetic play blocks daily, combined with scent and brain games to keep their minds sharp. Staff should note the breed’s tendency to bark and their independent nature, which means gentle but firm handling works best. Socialization with other dogs is usually positive if introduced properly, but some Gordons prefer one-on-one attention. Enrichment activities like puzzle feeders or scent trails help reduce boredom and keep them happy while away from home.