Big Dogs

Information About The Gordon Setter Dog Breed

History and origin : The Gordon Setter is a true Scottish breed, dated back to 17 th century Scotland. He is the only native Scottish gun dog and was originally known as the Gordon Castle Setter due to the fact that he was bred at Gordon Castle, Banffshire. Many believe that he is a cross between the Bloodhound and the Collie. He was valued for his pointing, retrieving, and tracking ability.

Description : The Gordon Setter stands 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 45 and 70 pounds. He has a graceful, solid, athletic body. His shedding coat is of medium length, is lustrous and wavy, and needs regular brushing. The coat is always black-and-tan.

About the breed : The Gordon Setter is an excellent gundog, bird-finding dog, and watch dog. He is beautiful, graceful, intelligent, and makes a wonderful family pet. A Gordon Setter is very affectionate with his owners but suspicious and reserved toward strangers. He gets along well with children, provided they do not roughhouse. However, he may not be as friendly with the children's friends. He is a very active dog that need plenty of exercise. This breed makes a great jogging partner because of his leggy, agile build. He can be difficult to train because he learns rather slowly and may become passive-resistant if he is pressed too hard. Be patient and go slow with this breed, and be clear about what you are asking him to do. Allow more time for him to learn whatever you are teaching and do not use overbearing techniques. Some Gordon Setters have a tendency toward fear-based aggression toward people or dogs, so make sure yours is amply socialized from the first day. Take your dog to friends' homes, stores, and parks, but avoid any off-leash dogs that might scare your puppy. Introduce your puppy to as many people and animals as possible when he is young and impressionable.

Feeding : Recommended feeding for this breed is 1 ½ - 2 ½ cans (13.3oz) of high quality meat product with biscuit added in same amount or 5 cupfuls of a complete, dry food.

Ideal home : A house with a fenced yard is essential for this breed. The Gordon Setter is a very active dog and needs plenty of exercise, particularly jogging or field work. Older children are okay provided they are respectful and not rough. Obedience training and socialization are necessities for this breed and must not be hurried. If left alone too long, he may become vocal and destructive. The elderly and disable may have trouble providing the Gordon Setter with enough exercise.

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