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Pet Insurance for Gordon Setters

Find out all about Gordon Setters and their common health conditions, then compare pet insurance options from some of Australia’s leading insurers.

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, updated on September 20th, 2023       

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Price range

$500 – $900

Height

58–69cm

Weight

20–36kg

Personality

Intelligent, loyal, alert

Coat length

Medium to long

Exercise needs

High

Kid-friendly?

Yes

Life expectancy

10–12 years

Gordon Setter

Overview

Originally bred for game bird hunting in the Scottish Highlands, the Gordon Setter is a poised and skilled hunting breed. Recognisable by its distinctive black and tan coat, this dog boasts a strong, athletic build and keen, expressive eyes.

Gordon Setters excel in various dog sports that highlight their agility, endurance and intelligence. Beyond the field, they are affectionate and protective, making them excellent family dogs. With proper training and socialisation, they become devoted watchdogs, always alert to potential dangers.

In a home setting, Gordon Setters thrive with regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their affectionate disposition makes them wonderful companions for families that appreciate an energetic and devoted addition to their household.

Common diseases and conditions of Gordon Setters

  • Hip dysplasia: this genetic condition affects the hip joints, leading to arthritis and mobility issues. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help manage this condition.
  • Bloat: also known as gastric torsion, this is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition where the stomach twists on itself. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial.
  • Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): this inherited condition causes gradual vision loss and can lead to blindness. Regular veterinary check-ups can help monitor and manage this condition.
  • Elbow dysplasia: similar to hip dysplasia, this condition affects the elbow joints, causing pain and lameness. Management may include medication and lifestyle adjustments.
  • Hypothyroidism: a common hormonal disorder in dogs, it can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems. Treatment usually involves medication and a controlled diet.

Breed-specific issues:  

Gordon Setters can exhibit stubborn tendencies. It’s important for owners to establish clear leadership through positive yet firm training methods. Socialisation from an early age is vital to ensure they feel comfortable around strangers and other pets. Due to their active nature, they require regular mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom, which can lead to undesirable behaviours like excessive barking or destructive tendencies. Additionally, Gordon Setters have a strong prey drive, which may lead them to chase smaller animals. Proper training and supervision, especially around children, are crucial to manage this instinct effectively.

How much does pet insurance cost for a Gordon Setter?

There are many factors that can influence the cost of pet insurance for your Gordon Setter, including the following: 

  • Age: the older your dog is, the more pet insurance is likely to cost. This is because older dogs tend to have more physical health conditions and illnesses due to age, and so present a higher insurance risk.   
  • Type of insurance you choose:  there are three basic types of pet insurance available in Australia; accident-only, accident and illness, and comprehensive insurance. An accident-only policy is the cheapest type available, with comprehensive coverage costing the most. 
  • The policy annual limit: each pet insurance policy has an annual limit, which is the maximum amount that will be paid out on the policy in one financial year. Annual limits range from around $10,000 up to $25,000 or more.  
  • Sub limits: in addition to an annual limit, there may also be sub limits that apply to the policy, for example a $300 sub limit for consultation fees, or a $5,000 limit for cruciate ligament conditions.  
  • Benefit percentage: pet insurance may not cover 100% of the cost of your vet bill. Instead, it may pay a percentage of the total bill. This can range from 50% for cheaper policies up to 90% for top-of-the-range cover. 
  • Excess amount: this is the amount you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket each time you make a claim on your policy. Some pet insurance policies do not come with an excess amount, while others do. 
  • Any add-ons you choose: it’s possible to add on more cover options to a basic policy, such as emergency boarding fees, routine care and dental care. These add-ons extend the scope of your pet insurance, but do increase the overall cost of the policy.
  • Discounts: some insurers offer discounts of between 5% and 15% if you have multiple pets insured together, if you pay your premium annually, or if you bundle your pet insurance with other forms of insurance with the same company. 

Types of pet insurance you can choose from

Why compare pet insurance with Savvy?

Common questions about Gordon Setters

How much exercise does a Gordon Setter need daily?

Gordon Setters are an active breed and require regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. They benefit from at least an hour of vigorous exercise each day, which can include activities like brisk walks, runs and playtime in a secure, fenced area.

Do Gordon Setters bark a lot?

Yes – Gordon Setters are known to be vocal dogs. They may bark to alert their owners of any perceived threats or unfamiliar situations. Proper training and socialisation can help manage their barking tendencies.

Are Gordon Setters suitable for first-time owners?

No – while Gordon Setters are intelligent and trainable, they may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners due to their high energy levels and need for consistent training and exercise. They thrive with owners who have experience in handling active and independent breeds.

Are Gordon Setters good watchdogs?

Yes – Gordon Setters have a natural instinct to be watchful and protective of their families. They will often alert their owners to any unusual sounds or visitors, making them effective watchdogs.

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Gordon Setter

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