Gordon Setters are a medium to large breed of dog, typically standing between 23-27 inches tall at the shoulder.
They have a muscular build, with males weighing between 70-110 pounds and females weighing between 45-80 pounds.
Gordon Setters are a relatively tall breed, with their height and weight making them well-suited for hunting and outdoor activities.
Their size also requires regular exercise and a balanced diet to maintain their overall health and well-being.
Gordon Setter Size and Care
Gordon Setters are medium to large-sized dogs, typically weighing between 45-80 pounds and standing between 23-27 inches tall.
They require regular exercise to stay healthy, so plan on spending at least 30 minutes a day on walks and playtime.
Their thick coats need to be brushed several times a week to prevent matting and tangling, and regular grooming sessions will help keep them looking their best.
Owning a Setter
Owning a Setter can be a wonderful experience, but it's essential to know what to expect. These dogs are high-energy, so they need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Gordon Setters are large dogs, typically weighing between 45-80 pounds and standing between 23-27 inches tall. They have a thick double coat that sheds heavily, so be prepared for regular grooming sessions.
To keep your Setter's coat in top condition, brush them daily, especially during shedding season. This will help prevent matting and tangling.
Setter History
The Gordon setter has a rich history that dates back to the 1600s in Scotland and the United Kingdom. People wanted a bird-hunting dog that would "set", or quietly lie down when they located prey.
The breed really started to take shape during the 1800s, with the goal of creating a dog suitable for the rugged landscape in Scotland. The Gordon setter was the heaviest of the bunch.
Alexander Gordon, the fourth Duke of Gordon, bred black and tan setters at the kennels of Gordon Castle. These dogs initially resembled the English setter.
Adding other breeds, including black and tan collies, bloodhounds, black pointers, and black setters, helped to shape the modern Gordon setter. This led to the breed becoming distinct from other setter breeds.
The breed first arrived in the United States in 1842. The American Kennel Club first recognized it in 1878.
The breed's official name went from the black and tan setter to the Gordon Castle setter and finally to the Gordon setter in 1924.
Recommended read: Black and White English Setter
Food & Diet
Gordon Setters are large breed dogs, and as such, they require a specific diet to support their growth and development. A high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs is essential.
Food created for larger breeds is a good option, as it typically doesn't contain too much protein. This is important because a diet with more than 26% protein can lead to problems as they develop.
You should always speak with your vet about what brand of dog food is best for your pup, as they can give you a personalized recommendation. They can also help you determine the right amount to feed your Gordon Setter, as the recommended amounts on dog food bags can be incorrect.
Gordon Setters are prone to bloat, and eating quickly can increase this risk. To prevent this, you can use a puzzle feeder to slow them down, or break their meals into smaller, more frequent ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which setter is the largest setter?
The Gordons are the largest and most substantial of the setter breeds, with males reaching up to 27 inches in height and weighing 80 pounds.
Sources
- https://www.dogster.com/dog-breeds/gordon-setter
- https://www.thesprucepets.com/gordon-setter-dog-breed-profile-4780318
- https://projectupland.com/hunting-dogs/gordon-setter-breed-history-standards-and-hunting-dog-2/
- https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/search/breeds-a-to-z/breeds/gundog/gordon-setter/
- https://www.dogbreedinfo.com/gordonsetter.htm
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