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Gordon Setter
The black and tan coloring
and the sheer bulk of the Gordon Setter distinguish this breed
from other Setter breeds.
History:
This breed is the only Setter
to be developed in Scotland. In the 1800s the fourth Duke of
Richmond and Gordon was known for his excellent setting dogs
that were a variety of colors. He had heard of a black and tan
Scottish Collie bitch that had an uncanny ability to find
grouse, and tracked her down. He then developed the Black and
Tan Setter, that was later to be called the Gordon Setter. The
exact details of the development of the breed are not known.
However it was developed, the breed has a reputation for being
an excellent bird dog with a good nose. Originally the breed
came in black and tan, and black, white and tan, but only the
former color is bred today.
Physical
characteristics:
The Gordon Setter is the
largest of the Setters, matched in height but not bulk only by
the Irish Red and White Setter. Height: 23 - 27 in (58 - 68
cm). Weight: 45 - 80 lb (20 - 36 kg). The head of a Gordon
Setter is large and broad, with slightly pendulous lips
(flews). Its eyes are large, oval-shaped, and dark brown. The
ears are long and hang close to the neck. The neck is graceful
and slopes into a strong straight back, and may have some
excess skin on the underside (throatiness). A Gordon Setter
has a strong and muscular body with a deep chest. The legs are
long and heavy in bone.
The
color of this breed is deep, glossy jet black, with rich tan
markings that have been described as being the color of
roasted chestnuts. The tan markings are in a set pattern, with
spots over the eyes, on the side of the muzzle, on the chest,
and on the feet and legs.
Behavior:
The Gordon Setter is a good
all-round dog. It has a well-balanced and usually calm
temperament. This dog is very useful as a watch-dog and its
deep bark provides a very useful deterrent against intruders.
The Gordon Setter makes a good family dog, as it has a playful
nature and is slow to anger. Generally, it gets along very
well with other dogs and certainly enjoys their company. This
docile dog dramatically springs into action when taken out for
work or exercise. It is a delight to see this dog in full
flight as it bounds over rough country.
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