The AKC describes the Gordon as bold, confident and resolute in the field and sweetly affectionate by the fireside. It is the heaviest of the setters, and that weight-to-height ratio shapes the kennel choice.
Business Class for the heavy setter
The standard puts males at 24 to 27 inches and 55 to 80 pounds, females at 23 to 26 inches and 45 to 70 pounds, and notes that the weight-to-height ratio makes the Gordon heavier than other setters. One dog is comfortable in Business Class, about 30 square feet inside plus 60 outside. A big male who likes extra room can take First Class at $72. Two Gordons from one home share a First Class run: $72 and $61.
Long feathering, soft coat
The coat is soft and shining, straight or slightly waved but not curly, with long hair on the ears, under the stomach, on the chest, on the backs of the legs and on the tail. Feathering of that kind picks up burrs and mud on a field walk. Most females fall in the 51 to 75 pound row and most males in the 76 to 100 pound row. For a Medium coat the 2024 chart shows $50 and $55. Please ask to confirm the price and the right column.
A field dog with a lot to spend
The standard calls him fearless and willing, intelligent and capable. Treat that as a working-dog engine: he will want to go. Walks are included in the nightly rate, and the grass field and the large fenced areas are where a setter can open up. Tell the staff how your dog behaves on a leash and with other dogs.
Black coat in July
A black coat with tan markings absorbs sun. The NOAA Vacaville station (1991-2020 normals) records about 100 days a year at 90 degrees or more, so use the shade and the air-conditioned inside half for the afternoon and save the outside run for morning and evening. The doggie door lets your Gordon choose.
What a week costs
Seven nights in Business Class is 7 x $59 = $413 on the 2026 rates. At 14 nights or more the rate drops to $53, so 14 nights is 14 x $53 = $742. House food is free, or bring your own in its original bag with amounts in cups.