FIELD FACTS

GORDON SETTER

GROUP: Pointers and setters.

PHYSICAL TRAITS: The largest and heaviest of setter breeds. Black medium-length coat with tan markings. Long muzzle, brown eyes and low set hanging ears. Long neck, sloping shoulders, muscular hindquarters and long straight tail.

CHARACTER: Intelligent, bold, outgoing. Curious, independent and strongminded. Sensitive core that requires firm and fair handling. Slow to mature, remains active and fun loving for life. Excellent disposition with people but can be boisterous with small children. Early socialisation with other dogs recommended. Well suited to large home and garden in the country.

DAILY CARE: Requires two hours of daily exercise and running. Should receive obedience and gundog training. Grooming more than once a week.

HEALTH: Tough and hardy, lives on average 10 to 12 years. Annual eye tests, PRA (rcd4) DNA test and hip dysplasia screening recommended for breeding stock. Some cases of Cerebellar Ataxia. Can be subject to bloat and hypothyroidism.

AT WORK: Noted for stamina, thoughtful work and excellent nose. Well suited to wet and windy conditions of native Scotland. Traditionally used to range far and wide in upland moors and stubble to hunt, point and flush grouse, partridges and pheasants.