The Gordon Setter is the “heavy hitter” of the setter world. He is the largest, heaviest, and most substantial of the three setter breeds (English, Irish, and Gordon). If the Irish Setter is a racehorse and the English Setter is a gentleman, the Gordon is a tank. He was built for endurance, designed to hunt grouse on the rocky, heather-covered moors of Scotland from dawn until dusk.

He is a stunningly handsome dog, with a glistening coal-black coat marked with rich chestnut tan. He is not as flashy or fast as his cousins, but he makes up for it with unwavering loyalty, a methodical hunting style, and a brain that never stops working. He is a one-family dog who is fiercely devoted to his people and politely indifferent to everyone else.

History and Origin: The Duke’s Dog

The breed was developed in Scotland in the early 17th century, making it the only Scottish gun dog.

• The Castle Kennels: It takes its name from the fourth Duke of Gordon, Alexander Gordon, who refined the breed at his castle kennels in Fochabers in the late 1700s and early 1800s. The Duke wanted a dog that was heavy enough to push through the thick, punishing heather of the Highlands but had the stamina to last all day. He prioritized scenting ability, intelligence, and bird sense over pure speed.
• The Black and Tan: Originally called the “Black and Tan Setter,” the breed was a favorite of hunters who wanted a dog that could work close and check in frequently.
• Official Recognition: The name was officially changed to the Gordon Setter by the AKC in 1924 to honor the Duke’s contribution to the breed. Today, “Gordons” are still prized by hunters for their reliability and by families for their devotion.

Physical Characteristics: The Black Avenger

The Gordon is a big, powerful dog with heavy bone. He should look capable of a hard day’s work. He is the “draft horse” of the bird dog group.

• Height: Males 24–27 inches (61-69 cm); Females 23–26 inches (58-66 cm).
• Weight: Males 55–80 pounds (25-36 kg), though some can reach 100+ lbs; Females 45–70 pounds (20-32 kg).

Distinctive Features

• The Coat: Soft and shining, straight or slightly waved (but not curly). It has long, silky feathering on the ears, belly, chest, legs, and tail.
• The Color: This is the breed’s hallmark. It must be Black and Tan. The black should be jet black (no rustiness), and the tan should be a rich chestnut or mahogany red. The markings are very specific: two spots above the eyes (“pips”), on the sides of the muzzle, on the throat, two spots on the chest, on the legs, and under the tail.
• The Head: Deep and heavy, with a long muzzle and a clearly defined stop. The lips (flews) are square.
• The Eyes: Dark brown, bright, and wise. They have an almost human intelligence.

Temperament and Personality

The Gordon is different from other setters. He is more serious, more protective, and more intense.

The One-Family Dog

He is intensely loyal to his own family but aloof with strangers. He is not the type to jump on every guest with joy like a Golden Retriever. He will stand back, assess the situation, and decide if the person is worth his time. Once he accepts you, he is a friend for life. He is a “Velcro dog” with his chosen person.

The Memory

The Gordon Setter has an elephantine memory. He never forgets a lesson, a friend, or an enemy. If you treat him fairly, he will never forget it. If you are harsh or unjust, he will forgive but never forget. This makes training a double-edged sword: he learns bad habits just as fast as good ones.

The Hunter

He has a strong hunting instinct. He loves to run and search. In the field, he works closer to the hunter than the other setters, checking in frequently. This “personal” hunting style makes him an excellent companion for the foot hunter.

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise: The Athlete

The Gordon is an athlete who needs a job.

• Daily Needs: He needs vigorous daily exercise. A 20-minute walk is not enough. He needs a long run, a bike ride, or a hunt. A tired Gordon is a good Gordon.
• Off-Leash: He loves to run off-leash in safe areas, but his nose can lead him astray. Reliable recall training is essential.
• Mental Activity: He is smart. Obedience training, scent work, and agility are great ways to burn mental energy.

Training: The Thinking Dog

He is smart but stubborn. He asks “Why?” before “How high?”

• Leadership: He needs a firm but fair leader. He will test you. If you give him an inch, he will take a mile.
• Socialization: Because he can be wary of strangers and protective, early socialization is critical. Introduce him to everything as a puppy.
• Patience: Harsh training methods do not work. He will shut down or become defensive. Use positive reinforcement and consistency.

Health and Lifespan

Gordon Setters are generally healthy, living 12 to 13 years, which is good for a dog of this size.

• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): As a large, deep-chested dog, he is at high risk for bloat. This is a life-threatening emergency. Feed two smaller meals a day and avoid exercise immediately after eating.
• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Common in large breeds.
• Hypothyroidism: Can cause weight gain, lethargy, and coat issues.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): An eye condition leading to blindness. DNA testing is available.
• Cancer: Hemangiosarcoma and osteosarcoma can occur.

Grooming and Care

The beautiful black-and-tan coat needs work to stay stunning.

• Brushing: Brush 2-3 times a week to prevent mats in the feathering (especially behind the ears and under the legs).
• Trimming: The hair on the feet (“slippers”) and around the ears needs regular trimming to look neat.
• Bathing: Every 4-6 weeks to keep the coat shiny.
• Ears: The heavy, hairy ears trap moisture and are prone to infections. Clean them weekly.

Is a Gordon Setter Right for You?

The Gordon Setter is a majestic dog for the right person.

Yes, if:

• You want a loyal, protective family dog. You want a dog that loves you best.
• You are an active person. You run, hike, or hunt.
• You have a large yard. He needs room to stretch his legs.
• You appreciate a dog with dignity and brains. You don’t want a clown.

No, if:

• You want a dog that loves everyone instantly. He is discerning.
• You live in a small apartment. He is big and boisterous.
• You want a “wash and wear” dog. He needs grooming.
• You cannot handle a strong, 80-pound dog. He is powerful.

For the active owner who wants a handsome, intelligent, and deeply devoted companion, the Gordon Setter is a peerless choice. He is the “Black Avenger of the Highlands,” and he will be your shadow, your guardian, and your best friend for life.