GORDON SETTER Breed Standards
The Gordon Setter descends from the Black and Tan Setter, which existed in Scotland and other areas in Britain in the 17th century, and possibly earlier. These setters were heavily favored by the Fourth Duke of Gordon, who set out to establish a distinguished line of the breed during the late 18th century. For his efforts, the breed became known as the Gordon Castle Setter, though the name was switched back to the Black and Tan Setter in 1900. Though not as fast as other setters, the Black and Tan was nevertheless a capable hunter possessing impressive fortitude and stamina.
By 1842 the Gordon Setter had arrived in the United States, and the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1892. As recognition came, the name Black and Tan Setter was dropped in favor of the breed’s original benefactor, though Castle did not make the cut. The Gordon Setter’s great intelligence and its ability to absorb and retain knowledge from field training sessions has made it a top choice as an all around shooting dog. The breed’s success as a companion has been less remarkable, and it remains a fairly uncommon pet.
SKILLS: The Gordon Setter is a good-sized, sturdily built, black and tan dog, well muscled, with plenty of bone and substance, but active, upstanding and stylish, appearing capable of doing a full day's work in the field. He has a strong, rather short back, with well sprung ribs and a short tail. The head is fairly heavy and finely chiseled. His bearing is intelligent, noble, and dignified, showing no signs of shyness or viciousness. Clear colors and straight or slightly waved coat are correct. He suggests strength and stamina rather than extreme speed. Symmetry and quality are most essential. A dog well balanced in all points is preferable to one with outstanding good qualities and defects. A smooth, free movement, with high head carriage, is typical.
SIZE: Size - Shoulder height for males, 24 to 27 inches; females, 23 to 26 inches. Weight for males, 55 to 80 pounds; females, 45 to 70 pounds. Animals that appear to be over or under the prescribed weight limits are to be judged on the basis of conformation and condition. Extremely thin or fat dogs are discouraged on the basis that under or overweight hampers the true working ability of the Gordon Setter. The weight-to-height ratio makes him heavier than other Setters. Proportion The distance from the forechest to the back of the thigh is approximately equal the height from the ground to the withers. The Gordon Setter has plenty of bone and substance.
COAT: Soft and shining, straight or slightly waved, but not curly, with long hair on ears, under stomach and on chest, on back of the fore and hind legs, and on the tail. The feather which starts near the root of the tail is slightly waved or straight, having a triangular appearance, growing shorter uniformly toward the end.
Color and Markings - Black with tan markings, either of rich chestnut or mahogany color. Black pencilling is allowed on the toes. The borderline between black and tan colors is clearly defined. There are not any tan hairs mixed in the black. The tan markings are located as follows: (1) Two clear spots over the eyes and not over three-quarters of an inch in diameter; (2) On the sides of the muzzle. The tan does not reach to the top of the muzzle, but resembles a stripe around the end of the muzzle from one side to the other; (3) On the throat; (4) Two large clear spots on the chest; (5) On the inside of the hind legs showing down the front of the stifle and broadening out to the outside of the hind legs from the hock to the toes. It must not completely eliminate the black on the back of the hind legs; (6) On the forelegs from the carpus, or a little above, downward to the toes; (7) Around the vent; (8) A white spot on the chest is allowed, but the smaller the better. Predominantly tan, red or buff dogs which do not have the typical pattern of markings of a Gordon Setter are ineligible for showing and undesirable for breeding. Predominantly tan, red or buff dogs are ineligible for showing and undesirable for breeding.
CARE REQUIRED: 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.
CHARACTER: The Gordon Setter is alert, gay, interested, and confident. He is fearless and willing, intelligent and capable. He is loyal and affectionate, and strong-minded enough to stand the rigors of training.
EXERCISE: All setters need plenty of exercise, if possible, running free in the safety of a fenced yard. If they do not get at least a long, brisk, daily walk, they will become restless and difficult to manage.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: 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.
TRAINING: 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.
