A Gordon Setter is a very flexible dog but ultimately it rests on the function you as the owner want from the dog.  The two distinct functions are working & showing to which each has specific points which you would be looking for in a dog.

The Show dog is defined by the Breed standard on the Kennel club website www.kennelclub.co.uk.

The Working Gordon Setter is very often under-estimated, particularly by those who mistakenly believe that as the heaviest of the setter’s it would be disadvantaged.  However, it has been recognised that a Gordon Setter’s attributes are in fact tireless and thoughtful workers.  To see a Gordon Setter working and setting is to see the breed at their best.

The overall character of a Gordon Setter is perhaps the most difficult task to define.  The Gordon Setter is an extremely intelligent dog of bold character and whilst they can be very outgoing, in some company they can be equally reserved.  The deduction that can be made is that whilst you might be judging them, they have already made their minds up about you.  They are leaders, and will nearly always want to be the Alpha figure.  They have an outward bold expression and subject to physical correction can soon become subdued and lose that lovely outward personality.

They love as much exercise as you can give them and become protective and loyal to all family members.  Determined and intuitively curious so much so when told not to do something, whether it be in a couple of days or the next week you will find them putting you to the test again.  Just curious at heart.  So to sum up a Gordon Setter if you love the outdoors and an interesting companion then you will have a friend for life.

Please always remember that small children and dogs of any age or breed should not be left unsupervised.