Updated · Published by Radif Partners
Gordon Setter Weight & Growth Chart
Complete weight guide with growth charts for male and female Gordon Setters from puppy to adult.
The Gordon Setter belongs to the Sporting group and originates from Scotland. Adults typically weigh between 45 and 80 pounds, standing 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder. Life expectancy runs from 12 to 13 years, and the figures on this page describe that range rather than a single average, because the spread is what matters when you are deciding. Running costs settle around $178 a month once the dog is past puppyhood, before insurance and before anything unexpected. These numbers come from published breed standards and, where a standard is silent, from longevity and veterinary studies; they describe the breed as a population and not the dog in front of you. Line, upbringing, early socialisation and simple chance move an individual well away from the typical profile, and two dogs of the same breed often differ more than two dogs of different breeds. Nothing here is a diagnosis: for a specific animal, a veterinary surgeon who has examined it will always know more than a table.
Gordon Setter Weight Overview
A fully grown Gordon Setter weighs between 45 and 80 pounds. Males range 45–80 lbs; females 38–70 lbs.
Males 55-80 lbs, females 45-70 lbs. The largest and most substantial of the setter breeds. Should be muscular and athletic but never appear heavy or lumbering..
Gordon Setter Growth Chart
When Does a Gordon Setter Stop Growing?
As a large-sized sporting breed from Scotland, the Gordon Setter reaches full height of 23–27 inches by approximately 15–24 months. Full adult weight of 45–80 lbs follows within a few months as the dog fills out.
Nutrition during the growth phase is critical. Given the breed's predisposition to Hip Dysplasia, proper growth-rate management is especially important.
Gordon Setter Male vs Female Size Differences
Male and female Gordon Setters differ noticeably in size, a pattern common in large breeds. Males typically weigh 45–80 lbs, while females weigh 38–70 lbs. Both sexes stand 23–27 inches tall at the shoulder, though males tend to fall at the upper end of this range.
These size differences can influence practical ownership decisions. Larger males require more food, larger crate sizes, and stronger leash handling. Female Gordon Setters at the lower weight range may be easier to manage physically for smaller handlers or families with children. Both sexes share the same temperament and health profile, so size preference should be a practical decision rather than a temperament-based one.
Is My Gordon Setter Overweight?
Is your Gordon Setter at a healthy weight? The ideal range is 45–80 lbs (males 45–80, females 38–70). Check these three signs:
- Ribs: Easily felt with light pressure; not visible but not buried under fat
- Waistline: A clear narrowing behind the ribs when viewed from above
- Abdominal tuck: The belly slopes upward from the ribcage to the hind legs when viewed from the side
If your dog fails any of these checks, consult your vet. Hip dysplasia rates are a concern, and bloat prevention is important. Breed-specific eye and neurological conditions require screening in breeding stock..
Gordon Setter Weight Management Tips
Maintaining your Gordon Setter at a healthy weight between 45 and 80 lbs is one of the most impactful things you can do for their long-term health. Studies consistently show that lean dogs live an average of 1.8–2.5 years longer than overweight dogs of the same breed.
Portion control: Use a measuring cup for every meal rather than estimating. Feed the amount recommended for your Gordon Setter's ideal weight, not their current weight if they are overweight. Divide daily food into two meals for adults and three meals for puppies under six months.
Treat management: Treats should not exceed 10% of daily caloric intake. Use small, low-calorie training treats and consider using pieces of your dog's regular kibble as rewards during training sessions. Avoid table scraps entirely, as they add unpredictable calories and can introduce foods that are toxic to dogs.
Exercise alignment: With an exercise needs rating of 5/5, the Gordon Setter requires vigorous daily activity. Insufficient exercise paired with full feeding portions guarantees weight gain. Ensure at least 60 minutes of activity daily, combining walks with active play sessions.
Regular weigh-ins: Weigh your Gordon Setter monthly and track the trend. Gradual weight gain of even one to two pounds per month can lead to significant obesity over time. Your veterinarian can establish your dog's ideal weight during wellness visits and recommend caloric adjustments as needed.
Feeding Recommendation
Plan on 0.7–1.6 cups of premium dry food daily for your adult Gordon Setter, divided into morning and evening meals. Given this sporting breed's predisposition to Hip Dysplasia, discuss dietary approaches that may help manage this risk with your vet. Males 55-80 lbs, females 45-70 lbs. The largest and most substantial of the setter breeds. Should be muscular and athletic but never appear heavy or lumbering..
Gordon Setter Weight by Age Table
The following table shows expected weight ranges for male and female Gordon Setters at key developmental milestones. Individual dogs may fall slightly outside these ranges depending on genetics, nutrition, and activity level. Consult your veterinarian if your Gordon Setter's weight deviates significantly from these benchmarks.
| Age | Male (lbs) | Female (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 months | 14.3–17.7 | 12.2–15.0 |
| 6 months | 32.3–39.7 | 27.4–33.8 |
| 9 months | 46.6–57.4 | 39.5–48.9 |
| 12 months | 57.4–70.6 | 48.7–60.1 |
| 18 months | 68.1–83.9 | 57.8–71.4 |
| 24 months | 71.7–88.3 | 60.8–75.2 |
Health Risks of Incorrect Weight in Gordon Setters
Both underweight and overweight conditions pose serious health risks for the Gordon Setter. Understanding these risks reinforces the importance of maintaining your dog within the 45–80 lb target range.
Overweight risks: Excess weight places additional strain on joints, increasing the risk and severity of conditions like Hip Dysplasia. Overweight Gordon Setters also face higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, respiratory compromise, heat intolerance, and reduced lifespan. Even moderate excess weight, just 10–15% above ideal, shortens life expectancy and reduces quality of life.
Underweight risks: A Gordon Setter consistently below 45 lbs may be experiencing inadequate nutrition, parasitic infection, dental problems that prevent eating, or underlying illness. Underweight dogs have weakened immune systems, poor coat quality, reduced energy, and slower healing. If your Gordon Setter appears thin despite normal feeding, veterinary examination is essential to rule out medical causes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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