Gordon Setter Health, Hereditary Issues & Longevity Guide

The Gordon Setter is the heftiest of all setter dog breeds, standing up to 27 inches tall at the withers and weighing up to 36kg. Males tend to be larger than females. Originally bred as game bird hunters, they are often kept as pets today while some still work in the field.

Known also as the black and tan setter, their glossy coats are mainly black with chestnut or mahogany points and markings. A little white on the chest may occur, and though recessive red coat genes sometimes produce red Gordon Setters, this colour is not accepted under breed standards. Their silky long coats, sometimes slightly wavy, have feathering on legs, tail, and chest.

Understanding Gordon Setter Longevity and Lifespan

Gordon Setters have an average life expectancy ranging from 10 to 15 years, with recent UK studies showing an average of around 12.4 years. This lifespan is typical for medium to large breeds. Responsible ownership, quality diet, and regular vet care can help maximise their longevity.

Breed Conformation and Associated Health Risks

The Gordon Setter's large and muscular build means it's at risk for several health issues:

• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): This acute, life-threatening condition causes the stomach to fill with gas and may twist. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial.
• Medial Canthal Pocket Syndrome: A conformational eye disorder where eyelid shape forms pockets allowing debris to accumulate and irritate the eye.
• Slow Physical Maturation: The breed matures slowly, so it is advisable that breeding bitches be at least 21 months old to promote health and physical readiness.

Genetic Diversity and Importance of Responsible Breeding

The coefficient of inbreeding for Gordon Setters stands at approximately 7.6%, slightly above the ideal threshold of 6.25%. This highlights the importance of selecting breeding pairs carefully to maintain genetic diversity and reduce inherited disease risks.

Essential Health Testing for Gordon Setters

Several hereditary conditions are known to affect Gordon Setters but can be screened for to help maintain breed health:

• Hip Score Testing: With a breed mean hip score of 14.5, only dogs with scores below this should be considered for breeding to reduce hip dysplasia risk.
• Elbow Dysplasia Screening: The ideal score is zero, indicating healthy elbow joints.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (Rod-Cone Deficiency 4 mutation): A genetic disorder causing gradual blindness. Around 50% of the breed may carry this gene. DNA testing is advised before breeding.
• Cerebellar Degeneration Testing: This neurological condition can cause weakness and tremors. Testing is available but requires special requests to certain organisations.

Additional Health Concerns and Conditions

Other hereditary risk factors for Gordon Setters include:

• Onychodystrophy: Weak, flaking, and splitting claws.
• Atopy: Allergic skin condition causing itching and potential self-injury.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A type of nail bed cancer.
• Juvenile Cellulitis: Inflammatory skin disease in young dogs.
• Cerebellar Degeneration: Progressive neurological disorder causing tremors and weakness.
• Lethal Astrocytosis: A rare fatal neurological disease affecting younger dogs.

What to Ask Breeders and How to Prepare for a Healthy Gordon Setter

Before purchasing or adopting a Gordon Setter, inquire thoroughly about the health of parent and grandparent dogs to assess any hereditary health issues. Request health clearances for hips, elbows, eyes, and any genetic tests performed. Choose reputable breeders committed to responsible breeding practices and health testing.

Understanding the breed's health traits helps ensure you provide the best care and a long, happy life for your Gordon Setter puppies. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, appropriate exercise, and watching for early signs of hereditary conditions are essential parts of responsible ownership.