Large breed Active energy Silky coat Sporting Group

Gordon Setter

Affectionate, Confident, Bold

Gordons are the largest and most substantial of the settersโ€”a big male might stand 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh 80 pounds. The stunning coat is a glistening black, with tan markings and long hair on the ears, belly, legs, chest, and tail. Tan spots above the bright brown eโ€ฆ

โš–๏ธ 45โ€“80 lbs ๐Ÿ“ 23โ€“27" ๐ŸŽ‚ 12โ€“13 years ๐Ÿง  Intelligence #34 โ€” average

Traits

Gordon Setter Characteristics

Energy

100%

Shedding

60%

Trainability

40%

Grooming

40%

Friendliness

40%

Coat Type

Silky coat Weekly Brushing

Breed data

Data Snapshot

๐Ÿง  #34

Intelligence

๐ŸŽ‚ 1.1yr

Average lifespan

๐Ÿ’ฐ $20K

Lifetime cost

๐Ÿ– $466/yr

Annual food estimate

๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘ง Great

With kids

๐Ÿฉบ 1

Known conditions

Known genetic concerns: no data

Owner resources

Matched Resources for Gordon Setter Owners

Contextual partner picks from the PupWiki affiliate pipeline. These are matched by breed size, energy, training needs, lifestyle, and ownership intent.

Gordon Setter food & nutrition tools
ChefPaw Dog Food Maker
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ChefPaw Dog Food Maker

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Gordon Setter training & walking gear
๐Ÿพ
JugBow ยท Training

JugBow No-Pull Training Harness

Dual-clip training harness with front and back D-rings. Reflective stitching, padded chest plate, anโ€ฆ

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For Gordon Setter owners
The Veteran - Custom Pet Canvas
Crown and Paw ยท Gifts

The Veteran - Custom Pet Canvas

Premium 8" x 10" custom pet canvas. Turn your pet into a legendary military veteran.

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Affiliate disclosure: PupWiki may earn a commission from qualifying partner links, at no extra cost to you. Availability and pricing can change.

Care basics

Gordon Setter Care Tips

Requires 90+ minutes vigorous exercise daily โ€” fetch, agility, or long hikes.

Seasonal shedder โ€” daily brushing during spring and fall coat blows is essential.

Owner fit

Who the Gordon Setter Suits

  • Recommended for experienced owners โ€” higher owner difficulty rating of 8/10.

  • Better suited to homes with outdoor space โ€” this large needs room to move.

  • A friendly temperament can make this breed a reliable companion for the right household.

  • Working heritage means structured activity matters โ€” under-stimulation can lead to problem behaviors.

Before you choose

Make an Informed Gordon Setter Decision

Related guides

All Gordon Setter Guides

Gordon Setter Cost Calculator

Puppy price, annual costs, food estimate, and lifetime ownership planning.

Classification

FCI Classification

FCI Group Group 7 โ€” Pointing Dogs
Section Britse en Ierse pointers en setters
Status Recognized

Editorial guides