Gordon Setter
Elegant, loyal, and full of energy, this breed thrives on companionship and adventure. Known for its striking black-and-tan coat and keen hunting instincts.
Breed Characteristics
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
61–69 cm (male)
58–66 cm (female)
WEIGHT
25–36 kg (male)
20–32 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
10–12 years
Gordon Setter: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance
Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A Gordon Setter isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding Gordon Setter's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
The Gordon Setter is loyal, affectionate, and alert, often forming strong bonds with family while being reserved with strangers. They are known for their gentle and steady temperament.
Key Personality Traits
Warm with family, reserved with strangers
Quick learner, responsive to training
High stamina, enjoys active pursuits
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts with time, prefers consistency
Strengths
- Loyal family companion
- Excellent scent and hunting ability
- Intelligent and quick to learn tasks
- Good stamina for outdoor activities
- Strong bond with primary owner
Challenges
- Needs high daily exercise
- Prone to separation anxiety when alone
- Can be stubborn during training
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires grooming
- May be reserved with unfamiliar people
Protect your Gordon Setter
Gordon Setter are active and energetic, but they can develop hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. Get peace of mind with PetSecur's comprehensive coverage.
Intelligence & exercise needs
Gordon Setters are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Learns with consistency
Overall rating
Gordon Setters are intelligent and eager to please but can be independent, requiring consistent, patient training. They respond well to positive reinforcement and benefit from varied, engaging tasks.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
60–90 minutes daily
recommended per day
This breed has high energy and needs substantial daily exercise, including long walks and play. Regular mental stimulation is important to prevent boredom and support their working instincts.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
Gordon Setters are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Gordon Setter would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Needs patient, consistent training from owners with some experience
Apartment Living
Needs ample space and daily vigorous exercise
Active Lifestyle
Thrives with active owners who enjoy outdoor activities
Kids
Gentle and patient with children if socialized early
Multiple Pets
Usually gets along but may chase small pets due to hunting instincts
Being Left Alone
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop destructive behaviors
Breed comparisons
Wondering how Gordon Setters compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Gordon Setter
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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