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Gordon Setter
Description:The Gordon Setter is a stylish, friendly looking dog with a firm build. The coat is soft and smooth, often times with a wavy texture, and is one of the identifying characteristics of the breed. The hair is longer on the ears, the chest, under the stomach and on the rear of the legs and tail than elsewhere on the body. Coloring is black and tan. The dog’s bright, dark eyes carry a wise expression and are set into a relatively narrow and deep head. The Gordon Setter has a broad nose with black nostrils, and low-set ears that are positioned on approximately the same plane as the eyes. The short (but not docked) tail is positioned horizontally and tapers from a thick base to a fine tip. The Gordon is the heaviest setter, and its appearance should emphasize strength; its coat is also thicker than that of other setters. Temperament:The Gordon Setter is an affectionate, intelligent and alert dog. The breed is highly obedient in nature, and is considered easy to train. The Gordon Setter was bred as a bird dog, and its energetic and lively demeanor proves it. The Gordon Setter’s friendly, loving disposition makes it an excellent family dog that is very good with children. A deep rooted desire to please is inherent to the breed and can occasionally result in jealousy of other pets in the household. The Gordon Setter’s wariness of strangers makes it a capable watch dog, and its muscular physique provides a level of protection as well, though not on the level of a Rottweiler or Doberman. Caring for a Gordon Setter:To stay in good physical condition the Gordon Setter needs exhausting exercise on a daily basis. Allowing the dog to roam (while maintaining owner supervision) on an expansive field or yard is best. The coat needs to be combed and brushed approximately twice a week, and trimming may be necessary to maintain the dog’s prime appearance. The Gordon Setter is physically capable of living outdoors in moderate climates, but its mental health demands that it be given the chance to spend time inside with its family; allowing the dog to sleep in the house is always preferable. Health concerns of note for the Gordon Setter include canine hip and elbow dysplasia, gastric torsion, progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism and cerebellar abiotrophy. |
