In 1842, two Gordon Setters named Rake and Rachel became the first of their breed to set paw on American soil, purchased directly from the Duke of Gordon’s legendary kennels by George Blunt and Daniel Webster. That transatlantic journey marked the beginning of an international love affair with a breed that had already spent centuries perfecting the art of finding game birds in the rugged Scottish Highlands.
If you’re researching the Gordon Setter dog breed, you’ve likely been captivated by their striking black and tan coats and dignified bearing. But there’s so much more to these magnificent gundogs than their good looks. As the largest and most substantial of the setter family, Gordons bring a unique combination of athleticism, intelligence, and unwavering loyalty that makes them genuinely special companions – though they’re certainly not the right fit for everyone.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know before bringing a Gordon Setter into your Australian home – the good, the challenging, and the genuinely rewarding.
What You’ll Learn
- Breed traits & temperament
- Health concerns to know
- True cost in Australia
- Training & exercise needs
- Is this breed right for you?
Gordon Setter Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Gundog (Sporting) |
| Origin | Scotland |
| Size Category | Large |
| Height (Adult) | Male: 61-69 cm | Female: 58-66 cm |
| Weight (Adult) | Male: 25-36 kg | Female: 20-32 kg |
| Lifespan | 10-13 years |
| Coat Type | Medium-length, straight or slightly wavy, with feathering |
| Exercise Needs | 90-120 minutes/day |
| Trainability | 3.5/5 |
| Good with Children | Yes (with proper socialisation) |
| First-Time Owner Suitable | 2.5/5 |
| Average Puppy Price (AUD) | $1,500 – $4,000 |
Data sourced from ANKC Breed Standards and Dogs Australia registry.¹
History of the Gordon Setter
The Gordon Setter’s history stretches back to 17th century Scotland, where ‘black and fallow’ setting dogs were already prized for their ability to locate game birds. However, the breed as we know it today was largely shaped by Alexander Gordon, the 4th Duke of Gordon, who established a renowned breeding programme at Gordon Castle in Morayshire during the early 1800s.²
The Duke sought to create a setter with exceptional scenting ability and the stamina to work all day across Scotland’s demanding terrain. According to the American Kennel Club’s breed history archives, his dogs were described as ‘not fast dogs, but they have good staying powers and can keep on steadily from morning until night.’²
Originally known as ‘Black and Tan Setters,’ the breed wasn’t officially designated ‘Gordon Setter’ until 1924. The first Gordon Setter appeared at an Australian dog show in 1865, and while they’ve never achieved the popularity of their Irish or English cousins, dedicated Australian breeders have maintained the breed’s quality for over 150 years.
Gordon Setter Temperament
Loyal? Absolutely. Your Gordon Setter will follow you from room to room, supervising your every move with quiet dedication. But don’t mistake their devotion for low maintenance – this breed demands serious commitment to both physical exercise and emotional connection.
Devoted Loyalty: Gordon Setters form exceptionally strong bonds with their families. Many Gordon Setter owners report that their dogs become almost shadow-like, following them throughout the house and becoming genuinely distressed when separated for extended periods.
Alert Intelligence: These are thinking dogs who observe their environment carefully. The breed standard describes them as ‘alert, interested, and confident’ – a combination that makes them excellent watchdogs, though they’re typically not excessive barkers.
Reserved Dignity: Unlike the exuberant Irish Setter, Gordons tend to be somewhat aloof with strangers initially. This varies significantly between individual dogs – some warm up quickly while others remain reserved throughout their lives.
Playful Spirit: Despite their dignified appearance, Gordons retain their puppy-like enthusiasm well into adulthood. As one Victorian breeder put it: ‘A bored Gordon is a creative Gordon – and their creativity usually involves redecorating your garden or reorganising your shoes by chewing preference.’
Gordon Setters can be wonderful family dogs when properly socialised from puppyhood. They’re generally patient and protective with children, though their size and enthusiasm mean supervision is essential with younger kids. First-time Gordon Setter owners are often surprised by how gentle these large dogs can be with toddlers – while simultaneously being robust enough to handle rougher play with older children.
Every Gordon Setter is different, but the breed can sometimes show aggression towards unfamiliar dogs, particularly if not adequately socialised when young. With proper introduction and early socialisation, most Gordons live harmoniously with other household pets, including cats – though their hunting instincts may be triggered by smaller animals like birds or rodents.
If your Gordon Setter starts following scent trails and ignoring your recall commands, don’t panic – this is hardwired hunting behaviour, not disobedience. The solution is consistent recall training from puppyhood combined with always exercising them in secure areas until their recall is rock-solid. Their strong prey drive means a Gordon Setter off-lead near traffic is genuinely dangerous.
Gordon Setter Health Issues
If you’re worried about potential health problems, you’re not alone – it’s one of the first things prospective owners ask. The good news is that Gordon Setters are generally robust dogs, and responsible breeding practices combined with appropriate health screening have significantly reduced the incidence of inherited conditions.
The large breed dogs like Gordon Setters are susceptible to several conditions that prospective owners should understand.³
Prevalence: Up to 50% of Gordon Setters may carry the rcd4 mutation
Symptoms: Night blindness progressing to complete vision loss, typically appearing between 3-9 years of age
Prevention: DNA testing is available – always request proof of PRA testing from breeders
Prevalence: Breed mean hip score of 14.5 (lower is better)
Symptoms: Lameness, reluctance to exercise, difficulty rising
Treatment Cost: $1,500-$6,000 AUD for surgical intervention
Prevention: Only purchase from breeders who hip score their breeding dogs
Prevalence: Higher risk in deep-chested breeds like Gordon Setters
Symptoms: Distended abdomen, restlessness, non-productive retching, drooling
Treatment Cost: $3,000-$8,000 AUD for emergency surgery
Prevention: Feed smaller meals, avoid exercise immediately before/after eating, consider prophylactic gastropexy
Additional conditions occasionally seen in Gordon Setters include hypothyroidism (manageable with daily medication), elbow dysplasia, cerebellar degeneration, and cataracts. Reputable breeders conduct comprehensive health testing to minimise these risks.⁴
Gordon Setter Lifespan
The average Gordon Setter lifespan ranges from 10-13 years, with many healthy dogs reaching 12-13 years. A 2024 UK study found a life expectancy of 12.4 years for the breed.⁵
Veterinarians at the Australian Veterinary Association recommend several strategies to maximise your Gordon’s longevity:⁶
- Maintain a healthy weight – obesity significantly increases health risks
- Provide consistent daily exercise appropriate to your dog’s age
- Feed a high-quality, age-appropriate diet
- Keep up with regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations
- Address dental health through regular brushing and professional cleaning
Gordon Setter Grooming Guide
That gorgeous black and tan coat doesn’t maintain itself. Gordon Setter grooming requires commitment, but the reward is a stunning dog that turns heads wherever you go. The breed’s medium-length coat features longer feathering on the ears, chest, belly, legs, and tail – all areas that attract burrs, tangles, and mud with impressive efficiency.
Do Gordon Setters shed? Yes, they shed moderately year-round with heavier seasonal shedding in spring and autumn. Regular brushing significantly reduces the amount of black hair you’ll find on your furniture and clothes.
Grooming Schedule
| Task | Frequency | Time | Tools/Products |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brushing | 2-3 times weekly | 20-30 mins | Slicker brush, metal comb |
| Bathing | Every 4-6 weeks | 45-60 mins | Dermcare or PAW Shampoo |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2-3 weeks | 10-15 mins | Clippers or grinder |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly | 5-10 mins | Ear cleaner, cotton balls |
| Pro Grooming | Every 8-12 weeks | 2-3 hours | $80-$150 AUD |
For Australian owners, Dermcare Natural Shampoo (vet-recommended) and PAW by Blackmores (available at pharmacies) are excellent choices for maintaining coat health. Fido’s Everyday Shampoo offers a budget-friendly alternative for between-groom washes.
Gordon Setter Exercise Needs
According to RSPCA Australia, active breeds like Gordon Setters require substantial daily exercise to maintain physical and mental wellbeing.⁷ For Gordons specifically, expect to commit 90-120 minutes daily to keeping your dog appropriately exercised.
Many Gordon Setter owners report that the first year is the hardest – puppies seem to have boundless energy that can feel overwhelming. But by age two, with consistent exercise routines, you’ll have a dog who’s content to relax at home between adventures.
Ideal exercise activities include:
- Long walks or hikes (Gordons were bred for stamina, not speed)
- Swimming (excellent low-impact exercise)
- Fetch and retrieval games (taps into natural instincts)
- Scent work and tracking (mental and physical stimulation)
- Dog sports like agility, rally, or obedience trials
Important: If your Gordon suddenly becomes destructive, starts barking excessively, or seems hyperactive at home, the most likely cause is insufficient exercise. Before assuming you have a ‘problem dog,’ honestly assess whether you’re meeting their exercise needs.
Gordon Setter Training Guide
Don’t be discouraged if your Gordon Setter seems to ignore recall commands entirely – their nose literally overrides their brain when they catch an interesting scent. With patience and high-value treats, most owners see significant improvement by 18 months.
Gordon Setters are intelligent dogs who respond well to positive reinforcement training. However, they can also be independent thinkers with a stubborn streak – experienced handlers often say that Gordons will work enthusiastically for an owner they respect, but won’t tolerate harsh corrections or repetitive, boring training sessions.
When your Gordon hits adolescence around 8-12 months, expect some selective hearing and boundary-testing behaviour. The key is to remain consistent with your expectations while keeping training sessions short, fun, and rewarding.
Socialisation Timeline
| Age | Training Focus | Expected Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| 8-12 weeks | Name recognition, crate training, potty training | Basic recognition, house manners |
| 3-4 months | Sit, stay, come, leash walking | Basic obedience foundation |
| 4-6 months | Advanced commands, extensive socialisation | Reliable basics, confidence with strangers |
| 6-12 months | Recall reinforcement, impulse control | Dependable recall, well-adjusted adult |
Gordon Setter Price & Costs
Understanding the true cost of Gordon Setter ownership helps you plan appropriately. While the initial puppy price is significant, ongoing expenses represent a much larger lifetime investment.
Initial Costs
| Expense | Approx. Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Puppy Price (Registered Breeder) | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Adoption Fee (Rescue) | $350 – $600 |
| Initial Vet + Vaccinations | $200 – $400 |
| Desexing | $300 – $600 |
| Essential Supplies (bed, crate, bowls, lead) | $400 – $800 |
| TOTAL INITIAL COST | $2,750 – $6,400 |
Annual Ongoing Costs
- Premium Food (Black Hawk, Advance, Ivory Coat): $1,200 – $1,800
- Vet & Preventatives: $400 – $800
- Pet Insurance: $600 – $1,200
- Grooming (professional + supplies): $400 – $700
- • TOTAL ANNUAL: $2,600 – $4,500
Lifetime Cost Estimate: $35,000 – $60,000 (based on 12-year lifespan)⁸
Finding a Gordon Setter in Australia
Find registered Gordon Setter breeders through the Dogs Australia Breeder Directory. Key Australian breeders include Triseter Kennels (VIC), Carnoustie Gordon Setters (SA), and members of the Gordon Setter Club of Victoria and Gordon Setter Club of NSW.
Consider adoption through PetRescue or contact breed-specific rescue organisations. Adult Gordons can make wonderful companions and often come with basic training already established.
Is a Gordon Setter Right for You?
The perfect Gordon Setter owner is an active individual or family who enjoys outdoor activities and has time for substantial daily exercise. You should appreciate a dog who wants to be your constant companion rather than an independent pet who’s happy in the backyard.
Home Size: House with secure yard preferred; apartments not recommended
Yard: Securely fenced – Gordons will follow scent trails over or through inadequate fencing
Climate: Tolerates cold well (Scottish heritage); needs shade and water in hot Australian summers – their black coat absorbs heat
This can feel overwhelming, but being honest about challenges upfront saves heartbreak later.
- First-time owners without access to experienced training support
- People who work long hours away from home (separation anxiety is common)
- Anyone unable to commit to 90+ minutes of daily exercise
- Apartment dwellers without access to secure outdoor exercise areas
- Households wanting an immediately obedient dog (Gordons need patient training)
The Gordon Setter isn’t the right dog for everyone – but for the right owner, they’re absolutely magnificent. Their combination of loyalty, intelligence, and athletic ability creates a companion who enriches your life in ways few other breeds can match.
Perfect for: Active families with outdoor lifestyles, experienced dog owners, those seeking a loyal one-person or one-family dog
Think twice if: You have limited time for exercise, prefer independent dogs, or want an immediately obedient pet
First-time owner rating: Challenging but possible with dedication, research, and access to experienced breed mentors or quality training classes
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Gordon Setters good for first-time owners?
Gordon Setters can be challenging for first-time owners due to their high exercise needs and occasional stubbornness. However, with commitment to training classes and breed research, dedicated first-timers can succeed. Consider connecting with the Gordon Setter Club of Victoria or NSW for mentorship.⁹
Do Gordon Setters shed a lot?
Gordon Setters shed moderately year-round with heavier seasonal shedding. Regular brushing (2-3 times weekly) significantly reduces loose hair. They’re not hypoallergenic and aren’t suitable for allergy sufferers.
How much exercise does a Gordon Setter need?
Adult Gordon Setters require 90-120 minutes of exercise daily. This should include both physical activity (walks, runs, swimming) and mental stimulation (training, scent work, puzzle toys). Puppies need shorter, more frequent sessions to protect developing joints.
How long do Gordon Setters live?
Gordon Setter lifespan averages 10-13 years. A 2024 UK study found a life expectancy of 12.4 years. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and preventive veterinary care can help maximise your Gordon’s longevity.
How much does a Gordon Setter cost in Australia?
Gordon Setter puppies from registered Australian breeders typically cost $1,500-$4,000 AUD. Show-quality puppies with exceptional bloodlines may cost more. Adoption through rescue organisations ranges from $350-$600.
Are Gordon Setters good with children?
Yes, well-socialised Gordon Setters are generally excellent family dogs. They’re patient and protective with children, though their size means supervision is important with toddlers. Early socialisation with children of all ages produces the best results.
Are Gordon Setters good family dogs?
Gordon Setters can be outstanding family dogs for active households. They thrive on human companionship and form strong bonds with all family members, though they often develop a particularly close attachment to one person.
Primary Sources:
1. Dogs Australia (ANKC) – Official breed registration and standards (dogsaustralia.org.au)
2. American Kennel Club (AKC) – Breed history archives (akc.org)
Veterinary & Health Sources:
3. VCA Hospitals – Health conditions and treatments (vcahospitals.com)
4. PetMD – Gordon Setter breed health information (petmd.com)
5. UK Breed Longevity Study 2024 – Life expectancy data
6. Australian Veterinary Association – Care guidelines (ava.com.au)
Australian-Specific Sources:
7. RSPCA Australia – Animal welfare guidelines (rspca.org.au)
8. PetSure (Bow Wow Meow) – Australian pet ownership cost data
9. Gordon Setter Club of Victoria – Breed information (gordonsettervictoria.org)