Gordon Setter

Temperament:
The Gordon Setter is distinguished both for its loyalty and obedience. A devoted, polite, gentle and sensible dog. They are pleasant companions that are excellent with children. Intelligent and willing, it is a methodical hunter who seldom errs about a scent. Courageous, cheerful and affectionate. This breed needs lots of exercise or it may become hyperactive. Very loyal to the family, but tends to be reserved with strangers. It may become jealous of other pets, but is generally good with them. This breed likes to roam, so it is a good idea to have a fenced-in yard. Puppies may seem somewhat uncoordinated. Field lines are often smaller and lighter than show lines, but both make good pets. These dogs often have minds of their own, so train early before bad habits set in. Training these dogs is certainly not difficult, provided you take into account that it can be stubborn on occasion. They call for a handler who is both consistent and loving in approach. This dog should be introduced to all situations (people, animals and things) as a young pup to produce a well-balanced dog. A Gordon Setter who has been introduced as a puppy to cats will get along well with them. If strangers visit they adopt a wait-and-see attitude. In general they get along well with other dogs and with children because they are friendly to everyone.

Grooming:
Regular combing and brushing of the soft, flat, medium-length coat is all that is required to keep it in excellent condition. It is important to check for burrs and tangles, and to give extra care when the dog is shedding its coat. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. Trim the hair on the bottom of the feet and keep the nails clipped. This breed is an average shedder.

Exercise:
All setters need a daily long, brisk walk or they will become restless and difficult to manage. In addition, they will also enjoy running free in the safety of a fenced yard.

Living Condition:
The Gordon Setter is not recommended for apartment life. It is relatively inactive indoors (if a Gordon Setter gets enough outdoor activity it will be calm when it is indoors) and does best with at least a large, safely fenced yard where it can run free. They like to roam, so a good fence around your property is essential.

Origin:
The Gordon Setter was originally developed in Scotland in the 1600's and was later made popular by Duke Alexander the 4th of Gordon in the late 1700's. This breed has an outstanding sense of smell and makes a fine bird dog, pointing when it finds a bird scent and then retrieving the felled bird to hand. The Gordon Setter is not fast compared with other hunting dogs, but he has good stamina and can hunt in adverse weather on both land and water. It is one of the most conscientious and intelligent of the standing breeds. The Gordon Setter is a methodical, dependable hunter, and a fine one-man shooting dog. The beautiful and loyal Gordon Setter has also achieved success as a show dog and home companion. Among the Gordon's good qualities are excellent health and its adaptability to guarding and to family life. Some of the Gordon Setter's talents include guarding, watchdogging, tracking, pointing, and hunting.