Gordon Setter Temperament: A true champion in the field
Are you considering getting a new dog and wondering if the Gordon Setter is the right breed for you?
The Gordon Setter is a gundog with a friendly and special temperament that will capture your heart. However, they may not be the best fit for every lifestyle. If you're an outdoorsy person who loves to go on adventures and enjoys cuddling with your furry friend in the evening, then the Gordon Setter could be the perfect companion.
This blog post will closely examine the Gordon Setter temperament, their needs, and whether this breed fits your lifestyle well. So, read on to learn more and find out if the Gordon Setter is the right dog for you!
History of the Gordon Setter: Where does the Gordon Setter come from?
The Gordon Setter is a breed of gundog with a rich and old history dating back to the 17th century.
Their roots can be traced back to a Scottish origin. However, it can't be ruled out that some English dogs influenced the breed at some point.
Gordon Setters are known for their impressive black and tan coats and ability to work in the field.
The Gordon Setter gets its name from the fourth Duke of Gordon, Alexander Gordon. He is credited with developing the breed in the early 19th century by crossing the Black and Tan Setter with early Bloodhound and Collie-type dogs. Although not known, Spaniels and English Setter were also believed to be in the mix.
The Duke was an avid sportsman and needed a dog capable of tracking and retrieving game over various terrains. In addition, he sought to create a dog with a keen sense of smell, good stamina, and a calm and gentle temperament that would make it suitable as a companion and a working dog. The Duke succeeded.
The Gordon Setter quickly became popular as a hunting dog for its excellent scenting ability and its athleticism when working in the field.
However, it is believed that the history of the Gordon Setter goes back even further. The breed's ancestors can be traced back to Scotland in the 17th century. Early Setter-type dogs were initially used for hunting game in the Scottish Highlands.
Soon after Alexander Gordon started his breeding program, the Setter's popularity snowballed, and they soon became a favourite of hunters and gamekeepers alike. The breed was first shown at a dog show in 1864, and the first breed standard was established in 1884. Finally, the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognised the Gordon Setter in 1892.
Throughout the 20th century, the Gordon Setter was a popular breed for hunting and showing. However, the breed's popularity waned as the demand for hunting dogs declined. The Gordon Setter is a rare breed today, but they are still highly valued for their hunting ability and affectionate nature.
The Second World War was also not kind to the Gordon. The war had a significant impact on many breeds of dogs, as resources were diverted towards the war effort and breeding programs were put on ice. Some breeds were nearly wiped out due to the war.
The Gordon Setter's distinctive black and tan coat is one of its most recognisable features. The coat is thick and silky, with feathering on the legs, ears, and tail. The black is rich and glossy, while the tan markings are deep mahogany. The breed's coat requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and free from matting.
While the Gordon Setter's popularity has declined in recent years, the breed is still highly valued by those who appreciate their hunting ability and affectionate nature. They are a loyal and devoted companion that will bring joy and happiness to their owner's life.
The Gordon Setter is a breed with a rich history and a loyal following. From their humble beginnings as hunting dogs in the Scottish Highlands to their popularity as show dogs today, the Gordon Setter has proven a versatile and valuable breed. Their striking black and tan coat, affectionate nature, and hunting ability make them a favourite of dog lovers worldwide.
The UK Kennel Club recognised the Black and Tan Setter in 1872. This makes the Gordon one of the oldest recognised dog breeds. The Gordon was acknowledged as a standalone breed in 1924.
In 2021, 244 Gordon Setters were registered with the UK Kennel Club. In 2022, there were 251 puppies registered. It shows the ongoing love of the British people for this breed. Although the following is small, there are some true enthusiasts among them.
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