Wagglebase
Sign inRequest early access

Gundog · Scotland

Gordon Setter

A walker's guide to the Gordon Setter: how much exercise they need, what to expect on and off the lead, and what to ask the owner before the first walk.

Large, 25 to 36 kgHigh energySetterSlow to matureFeathered coatLoyal
Exercise a day2 hours plus
Energy4 of 5
Walk styleLong striding, methodical
With other dogsFriendly, dignified

Overview

The Gordon Setter is the Scottish setter, black with rich tan markings and a long, silky coat that feathers along the legs, chest and tail. It is bigger and more substantial than the Irish or English Setter, and the temperament tends to follow: steadier, more reserved with strangers and strongly attached to its family.

Gordons take a long time to mature, and a two year old can still behave like a gangly puppy. They are not difficult dogs, but they do need time, exercise and a walker who understands that a setter's idea of a good walk involves a lot of ground and a lot of air scenting.

Exercise and walking needs

Two hours a day for a healthy adult, including a decent free run where the dog can stretch out and quarter the ground. Gordons are not sprinters; they settle into a ground-covering trot and keep it up for a long time.

Go gently with youngsters. The breed is big and heavy-boned and should not be over-exercised while growing. Avoid hard running or jumping on tarmac until the owner confirms the vet is happy.

Daily minimum120 minutes
Ideal2 walks a day
Off-lead timeYes, with recall work

On the walk

  • Recall: Good with training, but the dog will drift wide when it catches bird scent on the air. Call early, before it has committed to a line.
  • Pulling: Big and strong when excited, especially leaving the house. A harness and a calm start sets the pace for the rest.
  • Other dogs: Pleasant and polite rather than playful. Usually fine in a group and seldom the cause of drama.
  • Coat: Long feathering collects mud, seeds and burrs. Check between the toes and under the ears after rough walks.

Tips for professional walkers

  1. Pick open ground where the dog can range and you can keep it in sight.
  2. Carry a comb for the feathering and a towel for the inevitable puddles.
  3. Use a whistle for recall at distance; the owner may already have one in use.
  4. Watch the heat; a black coat and a big frame heat up quickly in summer.
Every dog is an individual. Treat this as a starting point and go with what the owner tells you about their dog. Anything to do with health belongs with the owner and their vet.

What to ask the owner

  • What recall cues and whistle signals does the dog know, and how far will it range?
  • Has the vet raised anything about hips, elbows or bloat that should change the walk routine?
  • How does the dog react to strangers, and does it prefer a calm handover?
Irish SetterA glamorousEnglish SetterA gentleIrish Red and White SetterThe olderGerman Longhaired PointerA calm