Gordon Setter Colors & Coat Guide

Gordon Setter Colors Overview

The black and tan pattern is produced by the At allele at the Agouti locus combined with the B and E loci for black eumelanin. No other colors are accepted.. The breed standard defines which colors are acceptable for competition.

Prospective owners should understand that color has no bearing on a dog's temperament or health (with rare exceptions linked to specific color genes). Choose a Gordon Setter based on health, temperament, and breeder quality—not color alone.

All Gordon Setter Colors

The Gordon Setter is recognized in 3 color variations. Standard colors are those accepted by major kennel clubs for conformation showing, while non-standard colors may occur naturally but are not eligible for the show ring. Both standard and non-standard colored Gordon Setters make equally wonderful companions.

Standard vs Non-Standard Gordon Setter Colors

Standard colors (3): Black and Tan, Black with Rich Mahogany, Black with Chestnut Markings. These colors are accepted by the AKC and other major kennel clubs for conformation competition. Standard-colored Gordon Setters are typically priced within the normal $800–$1500 range.

How Color Affects Gordon Setter Price

While color can influence the price of a Gordon Setter puppy, prospective owners should prioritize health testing, breeder reputation, and temperament over coat color. A responsibly bred Gordon Setter in a common color with comprehensive health clearances is a better investment than a "rare" colored puppy from untested parents. The base price range for Gordon Setters is $800–$1500, with color-based premiums adding to that range for certain variations.

Gordon Setter Coat Type and Grooming

The Gordon Setter's long coat requires grooming appropriate to its texture and density. With grooming needs rated 4/5 and shedding at 3/5, owners should plan their maintenance routine accordingly.

This breed requires significant coat maintenance. Daily or near-daily brushing prevents matting, distributes natural oils, and keeps the coat healthy. Professional grooming every 4–8 weeks maintains proper coat length and condition. Budget $69–66 per month for grooming expenses, and invest in quality grooming tools including appropriate brushes, combs, and dematting tools.

Regardless of coat color, all Gordon Setters benefit from regular nail trimming every 2–3 weeks, ear cleaning weekly (especially for breeds with floppy ears), and dental care including brushing three or more times per week. These basic grooming tasks prevent common health problems and keep your dog comfortable.

Gordon Setter Coat Genetics

The Gordon Setter's coat color is the product of several interacting genes. The black and tan pattern is produced by the At allele at the Agouti locus combined with the B and E loci for black eumelanin. No other colors are accepted..

Modern DNA testing panels can identify a dog's genotype at key color loci, allowing breeders to predict puppy colors and avoid producing colors linked to health issues (such as double merle).

Rare vs Standard Gordon Setter Colors

Rarity in Gordon Setter colors typically reflects recessive genetics rather than desirability. The breed offers 3 color varieties, with standard colors including Black and Tan, Black with Rich Mahogany, Black with Chestnut Markings. While unusual colors may be visually striking, they sometimes correlate with health concerns or breeding shortcuts.

A reputable Gordon Setter breeder will never compromise health testing (for Hip Dysplasia and other conditions) to produce trendy colors. Be skeptical of breeders who market 'rare' colors at prices well above the $800–$1500 standard range.

Do Gordon Setter Colors Change with Age?

As your Gordon Setter puppy matures toward its adult weight of 45–80 lbs, expect their coat to change too. Most puppies undergo a coat transition between 4 and 12 months that can alter color depth, pattern visibility, and overall appearance. The breed's long coat may require adjusted grooming during this transition..

Choosing a Gordon Setter by Color

When selecting a Gordon Setter puppy, coat color is one of the most visible factors, but it should be among the last in your decision-making process. Here is a practical framework for evaluating color alongside more important factors:

1. Health testing comes first: Both parents should have documented clearances for breed-relevant conditions including Hip Dysplasia. No color is worth compromising on health documentation.
2. Temperament matters more: Meet the puppies and both parents when possible. A well-socialized puppy with stable temperament from health-tested parents in a common color outweighs a "rare" colored puppy from an unknown background.
3. Breeder reputation is essential: Reputable breeders prioritize producing healthy, well-tempered puppies and are transparent about all aspects of their program. They do not market "rare" or "exotic" colors at inflated prices.
4. Then consider color: Once health, temperament, and breeder quality are confirmed, choose the color that appeals to you. All 3 recognized Gordon Setter colors can produce healthy, happy companions.

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