The Standard describes how a Gordon Setter should look; it also makes comments on how it should act. Other references are also available that should assist a breeder in understanding "true" Gordon Setter temperament. While, within a breed, there will always be individuals that deviate from this standard of temperament, by trying to maintain this Gordon character, a breeder is preserving this breed uniqueness which, indirectly, also makes it easier for a purchaser to know what to expect from a Gordon Setter. It makes no sense to me to try to breed a Gordon that is more like a Golden Retriever or Newfoundland in temperament. Those breeds are what they are (and their breeders should strive to maintain that) in the same way that the Gordon is what it is.

So what is the Gordon temperament? Rather than trying to describe it in my words, I'll turn to the words of others:

"He is a faithful and lovable as any dog in existence, though he does require an outlet for his abounding energy............For a relatively large dog, he can take up a very small amount of space, curling up in some favorite corner where he is quite out of the way...............he is a great family dog and soon becomes a devoted companion and guard for children...............he has the 'touch of the devil' which induces a Gordon to play all sorts of pranks, but rarely tempts him into outright mischief. In a word, he is a thoroughly adaptable dog, with the instincts of a bird-hunter but very willing to learn other crafts and to use his own initiative................The Gordon while less affectionate than the Spaniel, displays much more independence, but will be just as demonstrative to his master and family, and as a rule impeccable polite to strangers after a proper introduction; but then he will commonly go about his own affairs unless required for some special purpose where as a Spaniel is always anxious to serve his owners every whim..........Though inclined to be formal and reserved with visitors, he soon accepts them as part of the household. When young, he is apt to be over demonstrative and boisterous, requiring firm by sympathetic handling; later he develops a quiet dignity and instinctive understanding of his master's wishes......he has a need of personal attention and has a distaste for being a mere kennel dog. Even when a Gundog is kept for work he will benefit by living in the house most of the time, since this will help to develop his intelligence and improve his understanding and co-operation. This is particularly true of the Gordon, who seems to flourish when in constant association with his master and indeed as a family dog.............." From a book, published in 1976 ,written by G.St.G.M.Gompertz , called "The Gordon Setter ...History & Character".

"The Gordon impresses people as aloof and not partial to strangers. Young dogs are considered boisterous and a bit tough to handle…. A good hunting Gordon works with its owner - in fact, guides him, and is quite confident that he [the dog] knows what's best…. One must be prepared to be outsmarted more than a few times by his Gordon…. Because of their involvement with their owners, Gordons are jealous and protective." From "The Complete Gordon Setter", Jean Sanger Look and Anita Lustenberger, published in 1984.


"intelligent , noble and dignified expression" From the Canadian Kennel Club breed standard.


"Acknowledged to be a strong, dependable bird dog, the Gordon is said to be capable of working for long periods of time…." The Canadian Kennel Club Book of Dogs.

"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." American Kennel Club Standard, approved, Oct.9, 1990. (Note: the word "aggressive" in the standard does not refer to an aggressiveness to dogs or people but rather to an approach to working.)

"Bold, outgoing, of a kindly, even disposition." From the British Breed Standard.

" Just because temperament is intangible, it is still a characteristic of the breed (just look at your standard: yes, temperament is asked for just like body length etc.). Now we all know (or should know) that the Gordon is a "one man, one family dog". The old Scotsman bred him to be a working dog during the day and a companion at night by the fire. This is what formed the temperament of the Gordon in the beginning, making him a loyal companion which in turn found him guarding his owner and his owner's possessions, but at the same time still accepting his owner's opinion of strangers. (i.e. if it's okay with my master, it's okay with me.) "……. Robyn Wallis, Rokeena Gordons, Australia.

Perhaps this thing called "temperament" is still just a vague concept. Reading about and understanding the history and purpose of the breed, as well as comments on temperament written by others, will help make it come to life for you. The Gordon's cousin, the Irish Setter was described in the AKC Complete Dog Book as having a "devil-may-care something about him" and the Golden Retriever is described as "gentle, sensitive, intelligent, and willing".

These descriptions, whether we're talking about Gordons or any other breed are all positive attributes but they are unique to the breed. Understanding the differences which make a breed will help you determine whether that breed is the one that suits you and your family best.