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Gordon Setter |
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Description... |
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 The
Gordon Setter stands between 23-27 inches and can range from 45 to
80 pounds. The coat may be wavy or straight with the hair on their
chest, stomach, legs and tail being longer. The coat should be
brushed and combed twice a week. The markings are a black coat with
tan markings above the eyes, on the muzzle, throat, chest, legs,
feet and on the underside of the tail. Sometimes there are narrow
black stripes on their toes and occasionally some white on the
chest. The ears will hang down. The average life span is 12 years.
This is a handsome, stylish dog
with a beautiful running gait and flowing coat.
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History...
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The Gordon Setter was originally bred
in Scotland by the Duke of Gordon.. The dog was bred to freeze into
a point when it smelled a hiding bird and then to retrieve the bird
after it had been shot. The first Gordon Setters were imported to
the U.S. by Daniel Webster.
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Traits...
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This is a good dog to have in the
country or suburban areas, places where you and the dog can get a
lot of exercise. Gordon setters Gordon setters are energetic dogs
that like to cover a lot of territory, and have tremendous stamina.
They are great companions for running, roller blading and bicycling.
When Bicycling, you must have a Springer or other device that
attaches to your bicycle and your dog. This device will keep you and
your dog safe, since he can't run away, pull you over or get tangled
in the bike.
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Good aspects...
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Of the three types of setters
Gordon Setters are the most serious and sensible. They are an
energetic breed that should be in areas where you can run with them.
They form a strong bond with their owners, and are very
affectionate, strong and have a lot of stamina. This breed has a
good hunting ""bird sense"" and has an intelligence running to the
higher end of the scale.
Gordon's are very beautiful dogs
and are quite fun-loving. They are good with children, especially if
they have been raised with them. This breed is affectionate,
clowning, fun-loving, and make good family dogs. If you like to run
on a daily basis, you couldn't have a better running companion than
a Gordon.
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Health...
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This breed is prone to hip dysplasia
and may be slow to mature.
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Be aware...
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They are demanding of your attention
and may be jealous of other pets. Gordon's often require a lot of
attention, and don't do well if left home alone for long periods of
time. They must be close to the family, and would not be happy if
left outside, away from the family. Although many are sociable with
strangers, some can also be reserved and protective when around
them. This breed can also be dominant or even aggressive around
unknown dogs, although aggression is less usual. They are often
stubborn and will need early, firm and consistent obedience
training. They are sensitive dogs and work best with positive
training methods. Gordon's are especially active and slow to mature
for the first 2-3 years of their lives. During this time they can be
exasperating and stubborn. Luckily they are usually so affectionate
that those "wild teenage years" can be forgiven. Because they are a
high energy breed with a lot of stamina, they need a great amount of
exercise, otherwise they could become destructive. This breed is
quite intelligent and so will pick up bad habits somewhat easily and
can be slow to lose them. Be aware: a good Gordon is an
affectionate, loyal and active dog that should not show signs of
aggression. In a couple Gordon lines, a few owners are starting to
report signs of aggression towards the owners or other humans.
Question the breeders carefully and ask to talk to the owners of
other dogs they have sold before you buy a Gordon to minimize the
chances of buying an aggressive dog.
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source: petcare information centre-
petcare.umn.edu
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Further resources... |
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