Gordon Castle Setters
Overview
The heaviest of the setters, the Gordon is sturdily built with plenty of substance and bone. The suggestion should be one of strength and stamina rather than speed. It is square-proportioned, upstanding and stylish. The gait is bold, smooth and effortless, with head carried proudly and tail constantly flagging. The Gordon setter carries a thicker coat than the other setters. The hair is straight or slightly wavy, always soft and shiny. Longer feathering is on the ears, underside, backs of legs, and tail. The whole impression should be of a rugged dog capable of withstanding a long, active day in the field under a variety of conditions.
The Gordon setter is a capable, close-working bird dog. It can run and hunt all day, and this kind of energy needs a regular outlet or the dog is apt to become frustrated. Gordons make lively, enthusiastic companions and need the company of lively people. Somewhat more protective than the other setters, they are reserved toward strangers and sometimes aggressive toward strange dogs. The Gordon has earned its reputation as a devoted family dog.
| Size | Large |
| Height | Male: 24-27 inches (61-69 cm)Female: 23-26 inches (58-66 cm) |
| Weight | Male: 55-80 pounds (25-36 kg)Female: 45-70 pounds (20-32 kg) |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Colors | Black & Tan Red Tan |
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
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. Their hunting instincts lure them to roam, so a good fence around your property is essential. |
| Good With Children |
Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
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| Exercise Needs |
All setters need a daily long, brisk walk or they will become restless and difficult to manage. While out on the walk make sure the dog heels beside or behind the person holding the lead, never in front, as instinct tells a dog the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. In addition, they will also enjoy running free in the safety of a fenced yard. |
| Trainability |
Moderately Easy Training: The Gordon Setter requires early training, as it is difficult to correct bad behavior in an adult dog. The Gordon Setter requires consistent training with a loving approach. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
Moderate Maintenance: The Gordon has a long, thick coat with feathering on the ears, legs, belly, and tail. Depending on the type of terrain your Gordon is out in every day, you will probably need to brush and comb him one to three days a week to prevent or remove tangles and mats, remove dead hair, and distribute skin oils. In addition to brushing, you’ll need to trim the hair on the bottom of his feet and between his toes. Gordons love swimming and playing in water. Be sure to keep the ears clean and dry to prevent bacterial or yeast infections from taking hold. |
| Shedding |
Moderate Shedding: The Gordon Setter sheds moderately. The more often you brush him, the less hair you will find on your floor, furniture, and clothing. |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Occassional |