LargeScotland, Great Britain

Gordon Setter

"The Gordon Setter is the noble 'black and tan' among pointing dogs – a loyal Scot characterized by an imposing appearance, high intelligence, and remarkable endurance."

Your Height:

180 cm

Shoulder Height: 65 cm

Age12-13 years

Average life expectancy with species-appropriate husbandry and good health.

Height

Shoulder Height: 61-69cmHead Height: ~82cm (est.)

The standard size measured from the ground to the highest point of the shoulder (withers).

Weight25-36 kg

Ideal body weight for a healthy, adult breed.

Cost/Month€110+

The sum of food, insurance, and basic care per month.

Character Profile

Activity Level

A measure of the daily urge to move and the necessary mental stimulation.

High energy hunting dog; needs extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Trainability

The willingness of the breed to cooperate with humans and learn commands quickly.

Intelligent and eager to please, though can be stubborn; needs positive reinforcement.

Family Friendliness

Describes patience and adaptability when dealing with children and family bustle.

Extremely loyal and affectionate; often referred to as a "nanny dog."

Sociability

Behavior towards strangers and other dogs/pets.

Very social with family; can be reserved or cautious with strangers.

Beginner Friendly

Indicates how well the breed is suited for first-time owners without much experience.

Not ideal for first-time owners due to hunting instinct and sensitive/stubborn nature.

Apartment Friendly

Considers barking behavior, space requirements, and the general need for rest indoors.

Possible with enough exercise, but prefers a house with a yard due to size and energy.

Grooming Effort

Time required for brushing, bathing, and nail care. Long-haired breeds often need daily care.

Long, silky coat requires weekly brushing and occasional trimming to prevent mats.

Shedding

How much loose hair the breed loses in the house. Important for allergy sufferers and cleaning effort.

Minimal shedding if brushed regularly; manageable for a long-haired breed.

Did you know?

Keeping a pet of this size costs over 80€ per month on average. Plan your finances wisely.

Character & Training

Beneath his aristocratic facade, the Gordon Setter hides an extremely loyal and gentle nature. Known as a 'one-family dog,' he forms deep bonds with his owners while maintaining a dignified reserve toward strangers. His intelligence is paired with a distinct stubborn streak, requiring consistent, positive reinforcement rather than harsh correction. Because he is highly sensitive to his owner's emotions, training must be patient. His natural passion for scent work demands tasks that challenge his keen intellect.

Living & Exercise

This athletic outdoor enthusiast does not belong in a city apartment. He requires vast open spaces, plenty of exercise, and ideally a securely fenced garden. As a passionate hunting breed, he thrives on long excursions through forests and fields. Kennel life is entirely unsuitable due to his strong need for human companionship and sensitive temperament. He wants to be part of the family and needs daily stimulation through activities like mantrailing or retrieving to stay balanced.

Health & Grooming

The thick, glistening coat needs thorough brushing several times a week to prevent matting in the long feathering. Breed-specific concerns include hip dysplasia and the risk of gastric torsion; therefore, rest periods after meals are mandatory. Their heavy pendulous ears also require regular inspection to prevent infections. Generally, the breed is robust and weather-resistant, provided the breeding stock has been screened for hereditary eye conditions. High-quality nutrition is essential to support the vitality of their powerful frame throughout their life.

History

The roots of this breed lie in the Scottish Highlands of the 19th century. The 4th Duke of Gordon refined the breed at his ancestral home, Gordon Castle. Originally developed as a versatile hunting companion for rugged terrain, he was built heavier and stronger than other setters. He specialized in pointing upland game birds and working reliably after the shot, demonstrating incredible stamina and persistence in the most challenging environments of the north.

Similar Breeds

Based on character, activity level, and grooming needs – not by appearance.