Gordon Setters are high‑energy, slow‑to‑mature sporting dogs with strong scent‑driven prey instincts; in clinic they may arrive aroused, vocal, or distracted by smells and small pets, and often settle best with calm, reward‑based handling and a quieter waiting option near their owner. They can be briefly wary of strangers and may be sensitive to harsh or ear handling—ask about handling preferences. As a deep‑chested breed, owners may describe early bloat (GDV) signs as “restless,” “pacing,” or “trying to vomit”; if non‑productive retching, excessive drooling, or a tight/swollen belly are mentioned—especially after eating—escalate immediately.
Front desk script: Thanks for bringing your Gordon Setter—these athletic, scent‑focused dogs sometimes do better in a quieter space or with car check‑in; would you prefer that today? We’ll approach slowly, avoid small‑pet traffic, and note any ear‑handling sensitivities. If you ever see retching without anything coming up, sudden restlessness, or a swollen belly—especially after a meal—please come in immediately or go to the nearest emergency hospital and call us on the way.
Gordon Setters are deep‑chested dogs with an elevated risk for bloat (gastric dilatation–volvulus); sudden abdominal swelling, repeated unproductive retching, drooling, or marked restlessness should be treated as an immediate emergency. The breed has documented inherited eye disease (late‑onset progressive retinal atrophy/rcd4) leading to progressive vision loss, and is included in hip and elbow dysplasia screening schemes. Gordon Setters also show predispositions to autoimmune hypothyroidism and to a painful nail disorder causing brittle or sloughing claws (symmetrical lupoid onychodystrophy). A rare recessive cerebellar degeneration/ataxia is reported in the breed. Front‑desk teams should flag owners’ reports of changes in night vision, nails, mobility, weight/energy, or any gastrointestinal distress for veterinarian review.
Front desk script: Thanks for calling—Gordon Setters can be at higher risk for life‑threatening bloat. If you’re seeing a swollen belly, repeated gagging/retching without producing anything, or sudden distress, please go to the nearest emergency hospital now; I can give you the address and call ahead. For non‑urgent concerns (eyes, hips/elbows, thyroid, or nail issues), I can schedule the next available appointment and note the breed risk for the doctor.
Gordon Setters are large, loyal sporting dogs (about 55–80 lb) with very high energy; they do best with vigorous daily exercise, basic training, and lots of family time. They shed and have long ears and feathering, so plan on regular brushing and routine ear checks; many are gentle with kids when well socialized. Common health questions involve risk for bloat/GDV (a true emergency in deep‑chested breeds), hip dysplasia, and hypothyroidism; reputable breeders often screen hips and eyes. Act immediately if you see a suddenly swollen/tight belly, repeated unproductive retching, restlessness, pale gums, weakness, or collapse—go to an emergency vet now and call us on the way.
Front desk script: They’re high‑energy, affectionate sporting dogs that need daily exercise and regular brushing/ear checks. Owners most often ask about shedding, activity needs, and screening for hips, thyroid, and eyes. If you ever see a suddenly swollen belly, repeated dry heaving, or collapse, that can be bloat—please go to the ER immediately and call us en route. We can book a wellness visit to cover routine care and screenings.
High-frequency reasons Gordon Setter owners contact the clinic include ear problems from pendulous ears (head shaking, odor, discharge), sudden sneezing/head shaking or intense paw-licking after field outings due to grass awns (foxtails), broken or painful nails or sudden nail loss (breed-predisposed claw disease), limping or stiffness after vigorous exercise (large, athletic breed with orthopedic risks), and gradual night-vision changes in adults/seniors. Immediately escalate if the dog shows signs consistent with bloat/GDV—repeated unproductive retching, a tight/bloated abdomen, drooling, restlessness, pale gums, weakness/collapse—advise the owner to proceed to a 24/7 emergency hospital now while calling the clinic so records can be shared.
Front desk script: Thanks for calling about your Gordon Setter—this breed commonly presents for ear discomfort, field-related foxtails, nail issues, and activity-related limping. If you’re seeing head shaking with ear pain/odor, a suspected foxtail (sudden sneezing, paw licking, or head tilt), or a torn/painful nail, we recommend a same-day appointment. For new limping without severe distress, or night-vision changes, we can book the next available visit. If there is unproductive retching with a tight, bloated belly or collapse, this is an emergency—go to the nearest 24/7 ER now and call us on the way.
Gordon Setters have a long, silky, black-and-tan coat with heavy feathering on the ears, chest, legs, belly, and tail that mats easily and sheds noticeably; plan frequent at‑home brushing (at least weekly, often more with outdoor activity) and regular professional grooming for trimming of feet/feathering and ear hygiene. Their low, floppy ears trap moisture/debris, so routine ear checks/cleaning should be scheduled and extra drying is needed after swimming or baths. Front desk should allow extra time at check‑in if mats/burrs are reported, and discuss adding nail trims and sanitary/feet tidy services. Escalate if owners report foul ear odor/discharge with head‑shaking, painful/severe matting pulling at skin, or sudden raw/oozing skin patches—these need a same‑day veterinary assessment, not just grooming.
Front desk script: This breed’s long, feathered coat tangles and sheds, so we recommend frequent brushing at home and regular grooming visits for feet/feathering and ear care. Their floppy ears need routine checks and cleaning, especially after swimming. If you’re noticing strong ear odor, discharge or head-shaking, or painful mats against the skin, we should book a same-day vet exam instead of a groom. Would you like us to add a nail trim and ear check to your visit?
Gordon Setters are large, deep‑chested sporting dogs; be alert for gastric dilatation–volvulus (bloat) red flags during intake. If the caller reports a suddenly swollen/tight abdomen, repeated unproductive retching, restlessness, collapse, or rapid worsening, direct them to emergency care immediately and notify the ER. Common non-urgent reasons to book include ear discomfort after activity/swimming (head‑shaking, odor), itchy skin, and mild, intermittent lameness from field exercise—schedule within 24–72 hours. Route sudden non–weight‑bearing lameness, eye pain/vision change, or vomiting/diarrhea with lethargy as same‑day. Ask about onset, frequency, appetite, water intake, recent hunts/swims, diet changes, and prior records; flag likely rechecks for ear/skin or lameness follow-up.
Front desk script: Because Gordon Setters are deep‑chested, I want to quickly check—do you see a swollen belly or repeated attempts to vomit without anything coming up? If yes, this is an emergency; please go to the nearest emergency hospital now and I’ll call ahead to expect you. For ear odor/shaking, itchy skin, or a mild limp, I can book you within the next 1–3 days; for sudden severe lameness, eye pain, or ongoing vomiting/diarrhea, we should see you today. I’ll note your dog’s recent activities (hunting/swimming) and any diet changes to help the doctor prepare.
Puppy (to ~12–18 months): schedule a wellness/vaccine series every 3–4 weeks through ~16 weeks, plus growth/large-breed nutrition, parasite prevention, microchip/ID, behavior/socialization, and ear checks; plan a spay/neuter consult timing with the doctor. Adult: book wellness exams every 6–12 months; confirm core/lifestyle vaccines and year‑round parasite prevention, discuss activity/working or hunting exposure, ears/skin, and dental cleanings as recommended. Senior (~7+ years): prioritize exams at least every 6 months with doctor‑directed screening (weight trends, dental, mobility/arthritis, vision/hearing, cognition) and medication/lab review. Breed note: as a large, deep‑chested dog, the Gordon Setter has increased bloat (GDV) risk—if an owner reports nonproductive retching, a tight/bloated abdomen, collapse, or pronounced restlessness after eating, instruct them to proceed to an emergency hospital immediately and notify the veterinarian.
Front desk script: For Gordon Setter puppies, we’ll set up a series of visits every 3–4 weeks until about 16 weeks for vaccines and growth check‑ins, and we can schedule a spay/neuter consult around 6–12 months. For healthy adults, we recommend wellness exams every 6–12 months; for seniors (about 7+ years), every 6 months with any screening the doctor advises. If you ever see unproductive retching, a swollen/tight belly, sudden collapse, or severe restlessness after a meal, this may be bloat—please go to the nearest ER now and call us on the way.
Gordon Setters are large, deep‑chested sporting dogs; when owners call, set expectations around high exercise needs, strong prey drive (confirm safe leash/fence use), and common concerns you may hear (ear odor/head‑shaking from drop ears, itchy skin, hind‑limb stiffness, coat/weight changes, or gradual night‑vision changes). Keep triage questions simple: ask onset, appetite, energy, breathing, and whether the belly looks swollen or tight. If you hear non‑productive retching, a distended/tight abdomen, excessive drooling, or sudden restlessness/pacing, state clearly that this is an emergency and direct the client to the nearest 24/7 ER immediately. For non‑urgent signs, offer the next available appointment and note the breed so the medical team can tailor the exam.
Front desk script: Thanks for calling about your Gordon Setter—let me ask a few quick questions about when this started, appetite, energy, and whether the belly looks swollen or tight. If you’re seeing retching without vomit, a tight or enlarged belly, heavy drooling, or sudden restlessness, this is an emergency—please go to the nearest emergency hospital now and I’ll alert them. For ear odor or head‑shaking, itch, stiffness, or gradual vision changes, I can reserve our next available exam and note the breed so our team is prepared. Does that plan work, and can I confirm your contact and preferred ER location just in case?
Gordon Setters are deep‑chested and at increased risk for gastric dilatation‑volvulus (bloat); make sure owners know red‑flag signs—sudden unproductive retching, a rapidly swollen/painful belly, restlessness, pale gums, weakness/collapse—and that this requires immediate emergency care. Capture rcd4‑PRA genetic test status at intake; if unknown, add an ophthalmology screening reminder, especially from about 5 years of age when late‑onset vision loss may emerge. Verify hip/elbow screening history (e.g., OFA/club‑recommended schemes) and set follow‑ups to review results at wellness visits. Ask about recurring broken or shedding nails and sore toes (breed predisposition to symmetrical lupoid onychodystrophy) so the team can schedule a non‑urgent evaluation if this is happening.
Front desk script: Because Gordon Setters can bloat, if you ever see sudden retching without vomit or a tight, swollen belly, please go straight to the ER—this is an emergency. Has your dog had the rcd4‑PRA DNA test or a recent eye exam? If not, I can add an eye‑screening reminder, especially as dogs reach 5+ years. Do you have hip/elbow certification results on file? If not, I’ll flag your chart so the doctor can advise on screening at your next visit.
Large, high‑energy sporting dogs that bond closely with their people; in clinic they’re usually affectionate but can be watchful/aloof with strangers and noise‑sensitive, with a strong prey drive—use a calm, confident approach, short waits, minimal lobby time, slip‑lead control, slow greetings, and high‑value treats. Expect enthusiasm and size; move them to a quiet room when possible and note feathering/ear coat that can mat. As a deep‑chested breed, they carry increased risk for bloat (GDV)—if a caller reports sudden non‑productive retching, a tight/bloated abdomen, restlessness, pale gums, or collapse, escalate to emergency immediately.
Front desk script: Hi there—Gordons are energetic but sensitive, so we’ll take you straight to a quiet room and go slowly with handling. Please keep a short leash on; we have treats to help. If you ever see unproductive retching or a suddenly tight, swollen belly, call us right away or head to the nearest ER.
Gordon Setters are large, deep‑chested gundogs with high exercise and scent‑tracking needs; in shelter settings, plan for secure leashing/fencing, daily activity, and enrichment to curb roaming and frustration. Intake should note any limping or difficulty rising (hip/elbow dysplasia risk) and any vision changes or night‑vision issues (breed‑linked PRA‑rcd4). Counsel adopters that deep‑chested breeds like Gordons can develop life‑threatening bloat (GDV); sudden nonproductive retching, a tight or swollen abdomen, heavy drooling, marked restlessness, weakness, or collapse require immediate emergency care. Their feathered coat benefits from routine grooming to prevent matting, and many are people‑oriented and vocal if under‑stimulated—set expectations for training and engagement.
Front desk script: This breed is active and scent‑driven, so please remind adopters to use secure leashes/fencing and plan for daily exercise and enrichment. Because deep‑chested breeds are at risk for bloat (GDV), if they ever see unproductive retching, a tight/swollen belly, heavy drooling, restlessness, or collapse, they should go to the nearest emergency hospital immediately and call us on the way. At intake, note any lameness, trouble rising, or vision changes so we can schedule routine follow‑up.
Gordon Setters are loyal, people-focused sporting dogs with high energy and a slow‑to‑mature, sometimes strong‑willed temperament; they’re usually friendly but can be reserved with unfamiliar people and excitable around other pets due to prey drive. For check‑in, greet calmly, offer space, and seat them in a quieter area away from doorways/traffic; confirm secure leash/harness and use treats for focus if the owner agrees. In the waiting room, minimize long waits, avoid tight greetings with other dogs, and keep distance from small pets/birds. For handoff, approach neutrally, allow brief sniffing, use a confident, low‑key tone, and confirm preferred rewards; note any anxiety or reactivity in the chart for team heads‑up. Immediate escalation: if an owner reports sudden non‑productive retching, a visibly bloated/painful abdomen, restlessness/collapse, or excessive drooling—especially in this deep‑chested breed—alert medical staff and initiate emergency triage.
Front desk script: Hi! Gordon Setters are energetic and can be a bit reserved with new people, so we’ll seat you in a quieter spot and give him some space. Please keep his leash short near other pets; we have treats if that helps him settle. If you notice sudden retching without vomit or a swollen belly at any point, please tell us right away—that’s an emergency and we’ll triage immediately.
Gordon Setters are large, deep‑chested dogs with elevated risk for life‑threatening gastric dilatation–volvulus (bloat); red flags include unproductive retching, a rapidly enlarging or painful abdomen, restlessness, pale/blue gums, weakness, or collapse—treat as an emergency and direct to the nearest ER now. Also escalate immediately for labored/noisy breathing or blue/grey gums, sudden collapse/extreme weakness, or significant trauma/bleeding. Seizures lasting over 5 minutes or 2+ seizures in 24 hours are emergencies; a first, brief seizure with full recovery should be routed for same‑day clinician assessment. Persistent vomiting/diarrhea (especially with blood) or suspected toxin exposure warrants same‑day evaluation, with ER referral if the dog is worsening.
Front desk script: Based on what you’re describing and this breed’s higher bloat risk, this needs immediate emergency care—please proceed to the nearest emergency hospital now while I alert the team. If your dog is actively seizing and it’s been 5 minutes or there have been multiple seizures today, go to the ER now. If the seizure was brief and your dog has fully recovered, we will schedule a same‑day appointment for a clinician to evaluate. If breathing is difficult, gums look blue/grey, or the abdomen looks swollen and he’s retching, this is an emergency—go now.