Gordon Setter

The Gordon Setter is the largest and most substantial of the setter breeds, developed in Scotland in the early 1600s, refined by the Duke of Gordon in the late 1700s at Gordon Castle. These black and tan setters were bred for hunting game birds in the rugged Scottish Highlands. Standing 23-27 inches tall and weighing 45-80 pounds, Gordon Setters are substantial sporting dogs with elegant, powerful builds.

Their most distinctive feature is their rich coloration: coal-black coats with clearly defined chestnut or mahogany markings on legs, chest, throat, and above eyes. Gordon Setters have long, silky coats with feathering on ears, chest, belly, backs of legs, and plumed tails. They have large, intelligent, dark brown eyes conveying gentle expressions, moderately deep-set ears hanging close to heads, and clearly defined heads.

These setters have deep chests, strong backs, and muscular hindquarters built for endurance in rough terrain. Their tails are short compared to other setters, carried horizontally or slightly downward. Gordon Setters have characteristic setter "setting" behavior, freezing and pointing when locating game.

They're slower but more methodical than other setter breeds. These substantial dogs excel in field trials and maintain strong hunting instincts.