Sporting Group · Purebred · Scotland's aristocratic bird dog — the only black and tan setter, powerful, loyal, and built for Highland moors
Watch this video for a quick overview of the Gordon Setter — see the breed in action before diving into the details below.
The Gordon Setter is the only setter breed that is black and tan — a striking, substantial Scottish bird dog with a glossy jet-black coat marked with rich chestnut or mahogany tan points above the eyes, on the muzzle, chest, legs, and beneath the tail. The heaviest and most powerfully built of the three setter breeds (the other two being the Irish and English Setters), the Gordon was developed specifically for Scotland's demanding Highland terrain — steep moorland, dense heather, and rough hill country where stamina, strength, and a methodical hunting style mattered more than the blazing speed suited to flatter English or Irish landscapes.
The breed takes its name from George Gordon, the 4th Duke of Gordon (1743–1827), who maintained a famous kennel at Gordon Castle in Banffshire and spent decades developing his distinctive black and tan setting dogs through selective breeding. The Duke's dogs were not the first black and tan setters in Scotland, but his consistent breeding program and the reputation of Gordon Castle as a center of setter excellence gave the type its lasting name. Daniel Webster imported the first Gordons to America in 1842, and the breed was among the first dogs registered by the newly formed AKC in 1884. Today, the Gordon occupies a loyal niche among upland bird hunters and devoted family companion owners who value its combination of intense loyalty, working ability, and striking appearance.
Real Gordon Setters — browse photos showcasing their look, size, and personality.
Gordon Setters are known for being energetic and loyal. They form deep bonds with their families and thrive on consistent human connection. As a high-energy breed, they are best matched with active owners who enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to regular exercise.
Training is generally a pleasure with Gordon Setters — they are responsive, motivated, and pick up commands quickly. They are typically gentle and patient with children, making them a reliable family companion.
Gordon Setters are high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate activity they can become restless, vocal, or destructive. They are happiest with owners who genuinely enjoy an active lifestyle.
Gordon Setters have a longer coat that requires consistent grooming to stay mat-free and healthy. Establishing a grooming routine early ensures your dog is comfortable being handled and brushed, which makes the process enjoyable for both of you.
Gordon Setters are moderately trainable and respond well to patient, consistent positive reinforcement. They benefit from clear expectations and a calm, confident trainer who establishes routines early.
Keep sessions short — 10 to 15 minutes — and always end on a success. Enrolling in a puppy or adult obedience class provides structured learning and valuable socialization.
Gordon Setters are generally robust dogs but like all breeds they carry some genetic predispositions. Responsible breeders screen breeding stock for the most common conditions, significantly reducing risk in puppies from health-tested parents.
A Gordon Setter is ideal for active families or individuals who genuinely enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to daily vigorous exercise. Their trainability makes them approachable for first-time owners who are prepared for an engaged lifestyle. Not the right fit for sedentary households or those with very limited time for exercise.
Gordon Setters need consistent, well-portioned meals matched to their life stage. Overfeeding is one of the biggest health risks for any dog — use these guidelines and adjust based on your dog's activity level and body condition.
These are general guidelines for a large-breed dog. Always check the feeding instructions on your specific food brand, and adjust based on activity level and body condition score.
Look for dog foods where the first ingredient is a named protein — chicken, beef, salmon, or lamb. Large-breed formulas are calibrated for their metabolism and nutritional needs.
These common human foods can be toxic — even life-threatening — for dogs. Keep them safely out of reach at all times.
Always bring your Gordon Setter's regular food when boarding. Switching food suddenly can cause digestive upset. Provide the facility your exact feeding schedule and portion sizes.
The upfront cost of a Gordon Setter is just the beginning. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect — both to acquire one and to own one for their lifetime.
Beyond the purchase price, owning a Gordon Setter costs between $150–$300 per month on average. Here's where the money goes:
Over a 8–12 year lifespan, a Gordon Setter typically costs between $15,000–$28,000 total — depending on health, lifestyle, and the services you use.
Pet insurance is worth considering for any breed. Buying before your dog turns 1 gives the best rates and fewest pre-existing condition exclusions. Compare 2–3 providers before committing.
Because Gordon Setters have such wonderful traits, they're a popular choice for intentional mixed breeding. Here are the most common — and most loved — Gordon Setter crosses.
Two magnificent setter breeds — combining the Gordon's black and tan with the Irish's flame-red coat produces stunning, energetic sporting dogs.
Gordon × Labrador. Large, athletic, loyal sporting companion — excellent nose with retriever warmth and trainability.
Gordon × Golden Retriever. Handsome, devoted, active — the Gordon's elegance with the Golden's irresistible warmth.
Two classic English/Scottish bird dogs — long-coated, athletic, field-capable, and deeply devoted to their hunters.
Gordon Setters are full of surprises. Here are some of the most fascinating, funny, and heartwarming facts about this breed.