GENERAL APPEARANCE
Shoulder height: 62-66 cm (24½”- 26”).
Colour: Black with tan on designated areas.
Coat: Moderately long and straight and well fringed on the extremities.
Gait: Fore and hindlegs reach well out with strong hind propulsion.
This stylish member of the Gundog group is bold and outgoing. The skull which is broadest at the ears, is slightly longer than the square muzzle. The dark intelligent eyes have a keen expression and the low set ears lie close to the head. The long neck runs into a body with strong sloping shoulders, straight forelegs and upright pasterns. The broad hindquarters are well angulated and the oval feet must carry plenty of hair between the pads. The tail is straight or slightly scimitar shaped and should not reach below the hocks.

CHARACTERISTICS AND CARE
Beauty, brains and good bird sense are the essentials for this breed. Gordon Setters are heavier than their English and Irish cousins and can weigh up to 36kg (79lb). The result is they are the slowest member of the Setter family - a deficiency they make up for by being exceptionally loyal and affectionate. They definitely prefer life with the family to life in a kennel. Although often a one man dog and easily trained by their master rather than outsiders, they are protective to all members of their family. Regular grooming is necessary to keep their black coats shining, sleek and a pleasure to behold.

HISTORY
In the 17th century, a distinct type of black and tan setter was to be found in Scotland, however the breed really only rose to prominence due to the efforts of the Duke of Gordon. In the late 1700s, the Duke spent much time on improving these local setters, possibly by infusing some lines from the black/tan Bloodhound, which resulted in the heavier bone and deeper lipped muzzles than one sees on the English and Irish Setters.