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Gordon Setter
Sporting breed from Scotland
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Gordon Setter
The Gordon Setter is a large, athletic bird dog originating from Scotland. It is the heaviest and most substantial of the setter breeds, with a distinctive glistening black-and-tan coat. Bred for endurance and loyalty, it is known for its confident, affectionate, and intelligent temperament. The breed is eager to please and alert, making it a devoted companion. However, individual temperaments can vary. The Gordon Setter has a short coat that is black and tan. Its size is estimated: males and females both stand about 61–69 cm tall and weigh 25–36 kg. Lifespan is estimated at 12–13 years. The breed is categorized as a Sporting group dog, but its recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Gordon Setter at a glance
Sizelarge
Breed groupSporting
OriginScotland
Lifespan12–13 years
Male weight25–36 kilogram
Female weight25–36 kilogram
Male height61–69 centimetre
Female height61–69 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Gordon Setter was developed in Scotland, with historical ties to Alexander the Fourth Duke of Gordon in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It was established from black and tan setters, bred as a durable one-man bird dog capable of working long days in the rugged Scottish Highland terrain. The breed's history is rooted in its working purpose as a bird dog, though specific dates and details of its development are not fully documented. The Gordon Setter is recognized as a Sporting breed, but its recognition status varies by registry, meaning not all kennel clubs may acknowledge it in the same way. The breed's origins are clearly Scottish, but the exact timeline and breeding practices are based on historical accounts that may contain uncertainties.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
25–36 kilogramAdult weight61–69 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShortCoat colorsBlack and tanRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Confidentloyalaffectionateintelligenteager to pleasealert
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Gordon Setter-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
Similar breeds
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Growth chart
Gordon Setter puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight25–36 kilogramAdult female weight25–36 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Gordon Setter?
The Gordon Setter is a large breed. Estimated adult height for both males and females is 61–69 cm, and estimated weight is 25–36 kg. Estimated lifespan is 12–13 years. These are modelled estimates, so individual dogs may vary.
What is the temperament of a Gordon Setter?
The breed is described as confident, loyal, affectionate, intelligent, eager to please, and alert. However, temperament can vary among individuals, and not every dog will display all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does a Gordon Setter need?
The Gordon Setter has an energy score of 4 out of 5, indicating a high energy level. It likely requires regular, vigorous exercise, but specific exercise needs are not detailed in the supplied facts.
What are the grooming requirements for a Gordon Setter?
The breed has a short coat and a grooming score of 3 out of 5, suggesting moderate grooming needs. Shedding score is also 3 out of 5, so moderate shedding is expected. Regular brushing is advisable.
Is a Gordon Setter suitable for families with children or other dogs?
The breed has a child suitability score of 4 out of 5, indicating it is generally good with children. Dog compatibility is 3 out of 5, meaning it may be neutral or variable with other dogs. Individual experiences can differ.
Can a Gordon Setter live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is scored 2 out of 5, suggesting it is not ideal for apartment living due to its size and energy level. A home with space is likely more appropriate.
Where does the Gordon Setter originate from?
The Gordon Setter originates from Scotland. It was developed by Alexander the Fourth Duke of Gordon in the late 18th and early 19th centuries from black and tan setters, bred as a durable bird dog for rugged terrain.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.