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Gordon Setter
The Gordon Setter is a beautiful Scottish breed dating back to 17th century Scottland. Valued for his pointing, retrieving and tracking ability, he is the only native Scottish gun dog. Bred at Gordon Castle, Banffshire, this breed was originally known as the Gordon Castle Setter. Many believe he is a cross between the Collie and the Bloodhound. Gordon Setters get along well with children if they do not roughhouse. Because of this, some caution should be used if you have small children or toddlers. Older children are fine as long as they are respectful and not too rough. He may not be as friendly however with your children's friends. This is a very active breed, full of energy, and needs plenty of exercise. He makes a great jogging partner because of his leggy and agile build. A house with a fenced yard is essential. Elderly and disabled owners may have trouble prividing the Gordon Setter with enough exercise. If left alone too long they may become vocal and destructive. Gordon Setters can be difficult to train because they are very independent and learn rather slowly. They may become passive-resistant if pressed to hard. Be consistant, patient and slow with this breed, and be very clear about what you are asking him to do. Allow him more time to learn and do not use overbearing techniques. Socialization should also be slow but is necessary. Some have a tendency toward fear-based aggression toward people or dogs, so be sure you start socialization from day one. Take your pet to friends' homes, stores and parks, but avoid any off leash dogs that might scare your puppy. Introduce your pup to as many people and animals as possible while he is still young and impressionable. The Gordon Setter typically stands 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 45 and 70 pounds. His body is athletic, solid and graceful. His coat is medium length and will shed, but not excessively. It is lustrous and wavy and needs regular brushing. It is almost always black and tan, although the tan patches tend to become darker with age. Like all deep chested dogs, this breed is prone to bloat or gastric torsion so precautions should be taken with feeding regimes. Most large dogs also suffer from hip dysplasia which can often be kept at bay with good nutrition and exercise. Setters generally tend to have problem with pregressive retinal atrophy which can lead to blindness. This however is a genetic disorder, so carriers should be identified so they are not bred from. Gordon Setters generally have a life span of 10-12 years and their average litter size is 8-9 pups.
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