In general, we can say that hunting dogs have lost their intended purpose. Hunting is not so popular today - the equipment for it is not cheap, you need to obtain a permit for the gun and store it in a safe (which additionally increases expenses), the hunting grounds are reduced every year, and the game does not stay. However, at the same time, hunting dogs are in high demand as family dogs - their character is more often more calm and friendly compared to service dogs and especially fighting dogs. Outwardly, the “hunters” significantly win against the general background - the same Scottish setter, for example, simply conquers with its noble appearance. However, before deciding to get such a pet, it would be nice to get to know him better.
Breed history
Of all the cops, the Scottish Setter is rightfully considered the most beautiful. Photo indisputably confirms this opinion. The most active efforts to breed this breed were made by the owners of the castle Gordon; it was thanks to them that the Scottish setter acquired such a profitable appearance and was internationally recognized. Therefore, the breed is often called the Gordon Setter.
Among the ancestors of these beautiful dogs are collies, bloodhounds, Irish, black and tan and English setters, Labradors and Spaniels. Such a set of ancestors allowed to secure in the descendants not only excellent hunting qualities, but also a calm, balanced and friendly character.
The breed Scottish Gordon Setter was first recorded back in 1860, although similar dogs were known much earlier. And in its present form, recognized in 1924. Some signs were revised in 1988. Nevertheless, we can say that the Scottish setter is an ancient breed. The changes that were made to the standard did not concern the qualities of the hunter, the character and the main external signs.
Hunting habits
The hunting setter seeks out the game, systematically inspecting the territory with an accurate shuttle. At the same time, the dog is enthusiastic, acts gamblingly, but listens to the owner, immediately performing his corrective commands. Like any other hunting dog, the Gordon Setter has a magnificent riding scent. Sensing a bird, he slowly sneaks in the right direction, staunchly indicating where the game is hiding. At the command of the owner, the Scottish setter jerks out the prey, and he immediately lays down so as not to fall under the shot. Most often, at this stage, the participation of Gordon ends, although there are frequent cases when he finds and brings downed game. The advantage of the breed is the lack of intention to enjoy prey (of course, with proper training).
External signs
One of the most beautiful dogs is the Gordon Setter (photo is presented in the article). Dogs are quite large. Their growth can reach 66 cm, but should not be less than 62. The main external advantage of the breed is a long and soft coat, with no hint of curly hair. The skull is wide, the muzzle is rather long, but not narrow, with a clear transition to the forehead. The physique is strong, but harmonious, proportionate. The color is blue, black, with a walnut or darker, mahogany tan. The location and appearance of the setter are clearly fixed; deviations from the standards indicate that you got an unclean animal.
The character of the dog. Reviews
It was his features that allowed Gordon to firmly occupy the niche of a family dog. The Scottish setter, according to the owners, is calm, but energetic, affectionate, but loyal. The family members are very friendly and do not even try to dominate the children. At the same time, most dog breeders do not recommend leaving Gordon alone with the kids - until they learn to walk confidently, the dog does not perceive them as though small, but owners. But when the child turns three, the Scottish setter will look after him and desperately protect him. The owners note that the dog willingly communicates and even more likely needs to communicate, because in solitude it begins to wither. To strangers, on the contrary, he is incredulous - the desire to defend is manifested, although the watchman from Gordon is disgusting. It treats other pets good-naturedly, but to other people's dogs it is quite aggressive, although aggression is mostly reciprocal.
Dog breeders testify that with all their complaisance, the Scottish setter is quite independent. If you have not won respect from him, he will not obey you, although he will not do much harm either.
Parenting and training
Thanks to a stable psyche and a strong nervous system, the Scottish setter (photo above) is able to withstand quite long and hard training. This is a significant plus, because for raising a dog of this breed, training should be regular and long in order to form a favorable disposition towards the owners and maintain physical fitness. Another plus is the high level of intelligence, due to which the Scottish setter learns quickly enough - he needs only 15-20 repetitions in order to learn a new team. Classes should be started early, until the Scottish setter puppies have reached the age of six months - albeit little by little, gradually increasing the complexity of the tasks and the training time. Otherwise, it may turn out that you threw money (from 350 to 900 dollars) down the drain.
What you need to know about health
Fortunately, the setter, photos of which you can see in the article, is a dog quite strong and not painful. Hip joint dysplasia is found among genetically ill ailments, but this disease is detected at the neonatal stage, and breeders reject such puppies. Often there is bloating, which is easy to avoid, carefully monitoring the diet of your pet. Atrophy of the retina is quite rare - usually already in old age. There may be problems with the ears, as in other fold dogs. To avoid such troubles, it is enough to regularly check and clean your ears. Gordons are not prone to obesity, however, for normal heart function, do not neglect long walks. Subject to the regime, your Scottish setter will live at least 12 years.
Dog food
According to the owners, eating gordon is pretty moderate. The puppy should be gradually accustomed to two-time feeding and not indulge in the wrong treats, otherwise bloating is possible. A distinctive feature is the increased need for water. In the summer, Gordon is elementarily hot because of the thick coat, so it is necessary to carry a supply of water for a walk.
The setter is fed by the owners as prepared feeds, as well as prepared independently. Tip: in the latter case, calculate the diet so that it contains 16% protein, and teach the animal to eat vegetables.
Proper care
According to dog breeders, on the one hand, grooming is facilitated by the fact that the dog does not require bathing - the dirt crumbles from the coat, not reaching the body. On the other hand, the same coat requires constant observation. It is advisable to comb out the pet every day; if this is impossible for any reason, combing is necessary at least three times a week. Once a season you need trimming. We already talked about examining the ears. Watch them carefully - inflamed passages are treated difficult and expensive.
A separate item is physical activity. Like any cop, the Scottish Setter needs a long run. There were times when the owners tied the dog to the mirror of the car to ensure them and drove slowly around the block. This does not solve the issue! Gordon requires communication, and not with the machine, but with the owner. If you live in an apartment, and not in a house with your own yard, you will have to fall in love with running or cycling. Do not like either one or the other - get ready for unhurried, but very long walks with active entertainment of the dog. The aport team will become her favorite.
Living in a booth is undesirable - it is much more difficult to keep hair in order and prevent ear diseases. However, if it so happened, at least do not tie the dog - let it run freely on your hundreds.