Dog Breeds - Gordon Seventy

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed exhibits towards family members and individuals they are familiar with can vary. Certain breeds tend to be more reserved and may display aloofness towards everyone except their owner, while other breeds have a naturally friendly disposition and treat everyone they know as their closest companion. It is important to understand that individual dogs within a breed can also have their own unique personalities and may deviate from typical breed characteristics. When considering a breed it is recommended to research their general tendencies towards affection and social behavior, but also take into account the specific temperament and socialization of the individual dog.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The tolerance and patience of a breed towards children's behavior, as well as its overall family-friendly nature, can vary. It is crucial to always supervise dogs when they are around young children or children who have little exposure to dogs. While some breeds are known for their natural affinity towards children and their ability to exhibit patience and tolerance it is important to remember that individual dogs within a breed can differ in temperament. Proper socialization, training, and positive interactions with children are crucial in shaping a dog's behavior. When selecting a breed, it is advisable to research their general tendencies towards being family-friendly and tolerant with children, while also considering the specific personality and socialization of the individual dog.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is crucial to always supervise and carefully introduce dogs to one another, certain breeds have a predisposition to get along well with other dogs, both in a home environment and in public settings. These breeds often possess social tendencies and a natural inclination towards canine companionship. However, it is essential to remember that each dog is an individual with its own unique personality and may deviate from typical breed traits. When considering a breed it is advisable to research their general tendency towards friendship with other dogs but also consider the socialization and training of the specific dog in question.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed is likely to leave behind can vary. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing to manage the shedding and minimize loose hair. It is important to note that breeds with high shedding tendencies may also be more likely to trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. Additionally, homes with these breeds may require more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to maintain cleanliness. It is recommended to research the shedding characteristics of a specific breed to understand the level of upkeep and potential impact on allergies and household cleanliness before bringing a dog into your home.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance tasks can vary for different breeds. It is important to consider your availability of time, patience, and budget for grooming when choosing a breed. Some breeds may require more frequent bathing to maintain cleanliness and manage odor, while others may only need occasional baths. Brushing needs can range from daily grooming sessions to weekly or less frequent brushing, depending on the breed's coat type. Trimming requirements such as for long or fast-growing hair around the paws, ears or face can also vary by breed. Some breeds may require regular professional grooming to keep their coat in optimal condition, while others may need minimal professional grooming.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency to drool can vary among different breeds. If you have a preference for cleanliness and are a self-proclaimed neat freak, breeds that have a propensity for leaving ropes of slobber on your arm or creating big wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice for you. Some breeds naturally produce more saliva and are more prone to drooling while others have minimal to no drooling tendencies. If you have concerns about drooling, it is recommended to research the specific breed's characteristics and consult with breeders or experts to make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and tolerance for drool.
COAT TYPE +
Double
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of welcoming a breed tends to be towards strangers can vary. Some breeds have a natural predisposition to be reserved or cautious around unfamiliar individuals regardless of the location. They may require time and proper introductions to warm up to new people. On the other hand, certain breeds are generally more friendly and open to meeting new humans whenever the opportunity arises.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm for play can vary among different breeds. While puppies tend to have a natural inclination for playfulness, certain breeds maintain their enthusiasm for play well into their adult years. These breeds may continue to enjoy activities such as tug-of-war, fetch or other interactive games as they mature. They retain a high level of energy and often require regular mental and physical stimulation in the form of play.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Certain breeds are more inclined to have a heightened sense of awareness and alertness, making them more likely to alert you when strangers are around. These breeds may react to potential threats, whether it's the arrival of the mailman or the presence of a squirrel outside the window. They can be vigilant and proactive in notifying their owners of any perceived intrusions.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle change can vary. Some breeds are known for their resilience and ability to adapt to different living conditions, including changes in environment, noise levels, weather and daily schedules. These breeds tend to be more flexible and can adjust relatively easily to new situations and routines.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things can vary among different breeds. While all dogs are trainable to some extent, certain breeds are known for their high trainability and eagerness to please their owners. These breeds often have a strong desire to learn and a natural drive to make their owners proud. They are typically more responsive to training techniques and may quickly grasp new commands and behaviors.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed needs can vary greatly. High-energy breeds generally require a significant amount of both physical and mental exercise to stay content and avoid boredom or restlessness. These breeds are often ready and eager for physical activities such as running, playing and engaging in interactive games. They thrive on regular exercise, and mental stimulation through training, puzzle toys or tasks that challenge their intelligence.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization, including barks or howls, can vary among different breeds. Some breeds are naturally more inclined to vocalize, expressing themselves through barking in various situations. They may bark at passers-by, noises or stimuli that catch their attention. These breeds tend to use barking as a means of communication or alerting their owners.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The amount of mental stimulation a breed needs to stay happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs, such as working or herding breeds, often have a higher need for mental stimulation due to their innate drive to perform specific tasks or jobs. These breeds require regular mental challenges that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other qualities related to their specific purposes.

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CARING WITH FAMILY Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed exhibits towards family members and individuals they are familiar with can vary. Certain breeds tend to be more reserved and may display aloofness towards everyone except their owner, while other breeds have a naturally friendly disposition and treat everyone they know as their closest companion. It is important to understand that individual dogs within a breed can also have their own unique personalities and may deviate from typical breed characteristics. When considering a breed it is recommended to research their general tendencies towards affection and social behavior, but also take into account the specific temperament and socialization of the individual dog.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN Unwise Good With Children
The tolerance and patience of a breed towards children's behavior, as well as its overall family-friendly nature, can vary. It is crucial to always supervise dogs when they are around young children or children who have little exposure to dogs. While some breeds are known for their natural affinity towards children and their ability to exhibit patience and tolerance it is important to remember that individual dogs within a breed can differ in temperament. Proper socialization, training, and positive interactions with children are crucial in shaping a dog's behavior. When selecting a breed, it is advisable to research their general tendencies towards being family-friendly and tolerant with children, while also considering the specific personality and socialization of the individual dog.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is crucial to always supervise and carefully introduce dogs to one another, certain breeds have a predisposition to get along well with other dogs, both in a home environment and in public settings. These breeds often possess social tendencies and a natural inclination towards canine companionship. However, it is essential to remember that each dog is an individual with its own unique personality and may deviate from typical breed traits. When considering a breed it is advisable to research their general tendency towards friendship with other dogs but also consider the socialization and training of the specific dog in question.
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere
The amount of fur and hair a breed is likely to leave behind can vary. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing to manage the shedding and minimize loose hair. It is important to note that breeds with high shedding tendencies may also be more likely to trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. Additionally, homes with these breeds may require more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to maintain cleanliness. It is recommended to research the shedding characteristics of a specific breed to understand the level of upkeep and potential impact on allergies and household cleanliness before bringing a dog into your home.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily
The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance tasks can vary for different breeds. It is important to consider your availability of time, patience, and budget for grooming when choosing a breed. Some breeds may require more frequent bathing to maintain cleanliness and manage odor, while others may only need occasional baths. Brushing needs can range from daily grooming sessions to weekly or less frequent brushing, depending on the breed's coat type. Trimming requirements such as for long or fast-growing hair around the paws, ears or face can also vary by breed. Some breeds may require regular professional grooming to keep their coat in optimal condition, while others may need minimal professional grooming.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel
The tendency to drool can vary among different breeds. If you have a preference for cleanliness and are a self-proclaimed neat freak, breeds that have a propensity for leaving ropes of slobber on your arm or creating big wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice for you. Some breeds naturally produce more saliva and are more prone to drooling while others have minimal to no drooling tendencies. If you have concerns about drooling, it is recommended to research the specific breed's characteristics and consult with breeders or experts to make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and tolerance for drool.
COAT STYLES GUIDE
Double
COAT SPECTRUM
Medium
FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend
The level of welcoming a breed tends to be towards strangers can vary. Some breeds have a natural predisposition to be reserved or cautious around unfamiliar individuals regardless of the location. They may require time and proper introductions to warm up to new people. On the other hand, certain breeds are generally more friendly and open to meeting new humans whenever the opportunity arises.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop
The level of enthusiasm for play can vary among different breeds. While puppies tend to have a natural inclination for playfulness, certain breeds maintain their enthusiasm for play well into their adult years. These breeds may continue to enjoy activities such as tug-of-war, fetch or other interactive games as they mature. They retain a high level of energy and often require regular mental and physical stimulation in the form of play.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant
Certain breeds are more inclined to have a heightened sense of awareness and alertness, making them more likely to alert you when strangers are around. These breeds may react to potential threats, whether it's the arrival of the mailman or the presence of a squirrel outside the window. They can be vigilant and proactive in notifying their owners of any perceived intrusions.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable
The adaptability of a breed to handle change can vary. Some breeds are known for their resilience and ability to adapt to different living conditions, including changes in environment, noise levels, weather and daily schedules. These breeds tend to be more flexible and can adjust relatively easily to new situations and routines.
OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please
The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things can vary among different breeds. While all dogs are trainable to some extent, certain breeds are known for their high trainability and eagerness to please their owners. These breeds often have a strong desire to learn and a natural drive to make their owners proud. They are typically more responsive to training techniques and may quickly grasp new commands and behaviors.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy
The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed needs can vary greatly. High-energy breeds generally require a significant amount of both physical and mental exercise to stay content and avoid boredom or restlessness. These breeds are often ready and eager for physical activities such as running, playing and engaging in interactive games. They thrive on regular exercise, and mental stimulation through training, puzzle toys or tasks that challenge their intelligence.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal
Medium
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Happy to Lounge Needs a Job or Activity
The amount of mental stimulation a breed needs to stay happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs, such as working or herding breeds, often have a higher need for mental stimulation due to their innate drive to perform specific tasks or jobs. These breeds require regular mental challenges that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other qualities related to their specific purposes.
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About The Breed

The Gordon setter is indeed a remarkable breed known for its athleticism, outdoor prowess, and affectionate nature. As a bird dog, Gordons showcase their boldness, confidence, and determination in the field. However, they also possess a sweet and affectionate side that makes them great companions by the fireside. Gordons are the largest and most substantial of the setter breeds with males reaching heights of up to 27 inches at the shoulder and weighing around 80 pounds. Their coat is one of their striking features with a glossy black color and tan markings. Their long hair adorns the ears, belly, legs, chest and tail giving them an elegant appearance. Above their expressive bright brown eyes you'll find tan spots that contribute to their wise and willing expression. With their sturdy build and resilience Gordons embody the strength necessary to endure Scotland's rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions. They are a breed designed to excel in challenging environments.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A GORDON SETTER

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Gordon Seventy: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	While Gordons are known for their overall good health, it's crucial to be mindful of certain issues, such as the potential occurrence of bloat, a sudden and life-threatening stomach condition. Owners of Gordon Setters must educate themselves on the signs of bloat and take prompt action if it arises. Among dogs of all breeds, cancer remains the primary cause of death in elderly canines. Although there isn't a specific form of cancer that disproportionately affects Gordons it is uncommon for young Gordon Setters to die from this disease. Respectable breeders actively test their dogs for prevalent breed-specific conditions, including the screening for elbow and hip dysplasia, eye ailments, and the performance of DNA tests to detect various health-related issues. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Hip Evaluation Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Rod-Cone Dysplasia 4 (PRA-rcd4) - DNA Test CHIC DNA Repository Elbow Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	Regular brushing, at least once a week, is vital to prevent matting in your dog's coat. By brushing your dog regularly, shedding is kept to a minimum. To maintain your dog's health, it is recommended to groom them on a monthly basis. This includes trimming the hair on their feet, clipping their nails, tidying the areas around and inside their ears, trimming the hair around the vent and tail and checking their teeth for plaque build-up. Additionally, giving your dog a bath once a month is advised. Bathing not only keeps them clean but also helps prevent dry skin and dandruff. Conditioning their coat during baths can further contribute to maintaining healthy skin and coat.

Exercise

	Gordons were originally bred to serve as personal hunting companions and even took up the role of nannies. They are affectionate dogs who adore cuddling by your side or keeping your feet warm, as well as the exhilaration of running in open fields. Their genetic predisposition instills a natural drive for running, making regular exercise essential for them. While Gordons can live in an apartment, they require daily exercise. This exercise can be fulfilled through activities such as walking, jogging or biking with your furry companion. If provided with a yard they will happily engage in self-exercise; however a Gordon setter’s ultimate happiness lies in being actively involved in activities with their beloved owner. Spending time with their owner is their true purpose in life. It is important to note that to prevent the onset of bloat exercise should never be undertaken within half an hour before or after feeding.

Training

	Training commands that can potentially save a dog's life are absolutely crucial. It is imperative to train a puppy or dog to respond to essential commands such as 'come,' which ensures they come when called, to recognize their name and respond to it and to obey the command 'no.' Gordons, despite their stubbornness, are incredibly gentle and affectionate creatures, and their utmost desire is to please their owner. They possess high intelligence and are quick learners. Providing them with a purpose or job is the most effective form of training, with the ultimate job being spending quality time with their owner, whether it involves training exercises or simply having fun together. Being closely bonded to their family, Gordons yearn to be in their presence but they also adapt well to being alone when the family is away. Early socialization and enrolling Gordon puppies in puppy training classes come highly recommended as these endeavors play a pivotal role in ensuring they develop into well-rounded, well-behaved companions.

Nutrition

	It is not advisable to feed the Gordon setter a diet excessively high in protein (above 26 percent), as this can lead to health problems associated with rapid growth. To ensure the dog maintains firm stool, it is recommended to provide a diet with a minimum fiber content of four percent. It is best to feed them high-quality dry dog food, although wet food can also be included. If desired, small portions of nutritious additives like chicken, salmon, fruits and cooked fresh vegetables can be given as long as they are listed as safe foods on the AKC website. Sodium can pose risks so it is important to always feed food without added salt. It is ideal for Gordons to maintain a lean physique, avoiding overweight conditions so that a well-defined "waist" is clearly visible. As bloat is a potential risk for this breed, owners should never engage in exercise with their dog within half an hour before or after feeding.

Historiography

Several generations of Scottish huntsmen had a significant impact on the breeding of setter lines by introducing hounds and "collie’s" into the mix. This deliberate crossbreeding resulted in the creation of a robust and sizeable bird-dog that was well-suited for challenging working conditions. Alexander, the Fourth Duke of Gordon who resided at Castle Gordon in the rugged Scottish Highlands until his passing in 1827, took a keen interest in these dogs. During the early 1800s, the Duke's kennel began producing setters that closely resembled the breed we recognize today as the Gordon setter. Remarkably, alongside his involvement with breeding the Duke also played a pivotal role in the development of the Scotch whisky industry.