Gordon Setters love a good long run, however, daily walks will suffice. The Gordon Setter is a good-sized, sturdily built, black and tan dog, well muscled, with plenty of bone and substance, but active, upstanding and stylish, appearing capable of doing a full day's work in the field -- Gordon Setters first started to hunt game birds almost 200 years ago.

The dark coat of the Gordon Setter aborbs heat very quickly so owners should watch for signs of overheating.

Gordon Setters are protective of their family and children but are not aggressive unless they, or someone they love is being threatened. His bearing is intelligent, noble, and dignified, showing no signs of shyness or viciousness.

The coat is soft and shining, straight or slightly waved - but not curly - with long hair on ears, under stomach and on chest, on back of the fore and hind legs, and on the tail. Interesting to note, the feather of the tail has a triangular appearance, growing shorter uniformly toward the end.

The Gordon Setter Standard clearly defines the coat color and markings, "Black with tan markings, either of rich chestnut or mahogany color. Black pencilling is allowed on the toes. The borderline between black and tan colors is clearly defined. There are not any tan hairs mixed in the black. The tan markings are located as follows: (1) Two clear spots over the eyes and not over three-quarters of an inch in diameter; (2) On the sides of the muzzle. The tan does not reach to the top of the muzzle, but resembles a stripe around the end of the muzzle from one side to the other; (3) On the throat; (4) Two large clear spots on the chest; (5) On the inside of the hind legs showing down the front of the stifle and broadening out to the outside of the hind legs from the hock to the toes. It must not completely eliminate the black on the back of the hind legs; (6) On the forelegs from the carpus, or a little above, downward to the toes; (7) Around the vent; (8) A white spot on the chest is allowed, but the smaller the better. Predominantly tan, red or buff dogs which do not have the typical pattern of markings of a Gordon Setter are ineligible for showing and undesirable for breeding."

The Gordon Setter moves with a bold, strong, driving free-swinging gait. The head is carried up and the tail "flags" constantly while the dog is in motion. The Gordon Setter is alert, gay, interested, and aggressive. He is fearless and willing, intelligent and capable. He is loyal and affectionate, and strong-minded enough to stand the rigors of training. Predominantly tan, red or buff dogs which do not have the typical pattern of markings of a Gordon Setter are disqualifications.