The Gordon Setter is a medium-sized breed. Males typically weigh between 25 and 36 kg when fully grown, while females weigh 20 to 32 kg. With an average lifespan of 12 to 13 years, the Gordon Setter is a moderately long-lived breed.
Gordon Setter dogs are versatile, intelligent, and loyal companions. They are active and enjoy participating in family activities. They typically get along well with children and other dogs when properly socialised from a young age. Their intelligence makes them responsive to training, and they thrive when given a sense of purpose and regular mental stimulation.
Gordon Setter dogs need at least 1-2 hours of daily exercise. They enjoy walks, runs, and interactive play sessions. Many excel in dog sports like agility and obedience. Mental stimulation through training and puzzle toys is equally important. Without adequate exercise, they may develop destructive habits or excessive barking.
Gordon Setter dogs may be prone to hip dysplasia, allergies, ear infections, and eye conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining a healthy weight help prevent many common issues. Discuss appropriate health screening tests with your vet. A balanced diet and regular exercise contribute significantly to long-term health.
Regular grooming helps keep Gordon Setter dogs looking and feeling their best. Brush the coat 1-2 times per week to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils. Bathe as needed. Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care round out the grooming routine. Grooming sessions are also a good opportunity to check for any health concerns.
The Gordon Setter is a Scottish large breed of dog, a member of the setter family that also includes both the better-known Irish Setter and the English Setter. Setter breeds are classified as members of either the Sporting or Gundog Group depending on the national kennel club or council.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Gordon Setter was developed in Scotland by Alexander Gordon, the 4th Duke of Gordon, in the 18th century. The breed became known as the Duke's distinctive black and tan setter, favoured by Scottish nobility for grouse hunting. Many Victorian hunting estates adopted Gordon Setters, and the breed became celebrated in paintings and sporting literature as the quintessential highland gundog. The Duke's legacy ensured the breed's reputation as both a skilled working dog and a symbol of Scottish sporting heritage.
Gordon Setter is a highly athletic breed needing substantial daily exercise and active owners. Generally good with children, though supervision is advised during interactions. Generally compatible with other dogs, though early socialisation is important. Moderate grooming is needed to manage regular shedding. Moderately vocal, they may bark to alert or express themselves. Intelligent and responsive to training, they learn quickly and enjoy pleasing their owners. Neutral with unfamiliar people, they neither seek nor avoid strangers.
Dogpanion's take: AI-generated based on breed trait data.
A fully grown male Gordon Setter weighs approximately 31 kg on average. Use Dogpanion's free size predictor to estimate your Gordon Setter puppy's adult weight based on their current age and weight.
Dogpanion offers free tools to help you care for your Gordon Setter:
Free age calculator, size predictor, food safety checker, and health tracker for 350+ breeds.
Web App Coming SoonEvery ingredient verified safe. Use as occasional treats or meal toppers alongside a complete diet.