Sporting Dogs
Gordon Setter
Reviewed to our editorial standards · Updated 2026-06-12
Size
Large
Life Span
10 to 12 years
Weight
45 to 80 pounds
Height
23 inches to 27 inches tall at the shoulder
Breed Group
Sporting Dogs
Adaptability
Friendliness
Trainability
Energy
Health
Intelligence
Gordon Setter — Key Facts
About the Gordon Setter
The Gordon Setter is a large sporting dog known for being deeply loving with its family and friendly once acquainted. With a highly intelligent mind, better suited to homes with outdoor space, the Gordon Setter is manageable for most owners. Typically standing 23 inches to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 45 to 80 pounds, this breed has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, making it a devoted companion for the right family.
Originally classified within the Sporting Dogs group, the Gordon Setter brings a distinct combination of traits that sets it apart. The Gordon Setter is a high-energy breed that thrives with plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Deeply affectionate, the Gordon Setter loves being close to its people and forms strong bonds with every member of the household.
Temperament
The Gordon Setter is an even-tempered, well-balanced breed that makes it highly attuned to its family's emotions and moods. The Gordon Setter generally gets along well with children, especially when socialised from puppyhood. With other dogs the Gordon Setter can be selective, and careful introductions are recommended.
The Gordon Setter warms up to strangers at a steady pace and is neither overly suspicious nor blindly trusting. The Gordon Setter can be vocal and will readily alert you to visitors or unusual activity. The Gordon Setter has a strong urge to explore, so a well-fenced yard and reliable recall training are essential. A strong prey drive means the Gordon Setter should be kept on a lead around wildlife and small pets.
Health & Lifespan
With a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, the Gordon Setter is a medium-lived breed. The Gordon Setter is considered a robust, healthy breed with fewer inherited conditions than many pedigrees.
Common health areas to discuss with your vet include joint health (hip and elbow dysplasia), dental hygiene, eye health, and routine parasite prevention including flea, tick, and heartworm. The Gordon Setter has a moderate tendency to gain weight — monitor portion sizes and avoid too many treats. Annual wellness bloodwork — including a complete blood count and biochemistry panel — is recommended from middle age onward to catch conditions like hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and diabetes early. Pet insurance is strongly recommended from puppyhood.
Is this breed right for you?
The Gordon Setter is a good fit for a wide range of owners who can provide an active lifestyle with plenty of outdoor time. A home with outdoor space is strongly preferred.
The Gordon Setter handles alone time well and is less likely to develop separation anxiety. This breed prefers warmer climates and should be protected from extreme cold. The Gordon Setter handles warm weather reasonably well with standard precautions.
In summary, the Gordon Setter is a versatile and well-rounded sporting dogs that is relatively easy to integrate into family life. Do thorough research, meet the breed in person if possible, and connect with a reputable breeder or rescue before bringing a Gordon Setter home.
Helpful Tools
Care Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Gordon Setter good with kids?
Yes, the Gordon Setter generally gets on well with children. As with any breed, supervised interactions and early socialisation produce the best results.
How much exercise does a Gordon Setter need?
The Gordon Setter is a high-energy breed that needs at least 1–2 hours of vigorous exercise every day. Activities like fetch, hiking, and agility are ideal.
Does the Gordon Setter shed a lot?
Yes, the Gordon Setter is a heavy shedder. Daily brushing, regular vacuuming, and seasonal grooming appointments are part of owning this breed.
Own a Gordon Setter?
Track health records, set care reminders, and connect with other Gordon Setter owners in Hushku.