Many homeowners are hesitant to adopt a furry friend because they fear the amount of shedding that comes along with it. No one likes dog hair on their furniture or clothes. But, do Gordon Setters shed?
Gordon Setters are beautiful, loyal dogs that make great companions. They are also relatively low-maintenance regarding grooming, which is good news for busy homeowners. But one question that potential Gordon Setter owners often have is whether or not these dogs shed.
Gordon Setters Shedding
First, it’s important to note that all dogs shed, even those considered “hypoallergenic.” The difference is that some breeds shed more than others. So, if you’re looking for a dog that doesn’t shed much, you may wonder if a Gordon Setter is a good option.
While all dogs shed, Gordon Setters do not shed as much as some other breeds. They have a double coat, which is a dense outer coat, and a soft undercoat. The outer coat protects the dog from the elements and repels water, while the undercoat provides insulation. This coat helps the Gordon Setter regulate its body temperature, but it also means that they shed more than dogs with single coats.
That said, Gordon Setters only need to be groomed about once a week and even less often during the summer months when they are shedding their winter coats. If you are looking for a breed of dog that doesn’t shed much, there are better options out there, but Gordon Setters are still relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming.
How Much Do Gordon Setters Shed?
As we mentioned before, Gordon setters are considered a low-maintenance breed when it comes to shedding. They typically only shed twice a year, during the spring and fall. Most of the time, shedding is influenced by the breed and each dog’s unique hair cycle. Hair tends to shed less the more it takes to grow and fall out naturally.
However, you won’t notice the fur loss compared to heavy-shedding canines like the Newfy. However, you’ll quickly see the difference if you keep them close to a low shedder like the Basenji. Gordon Setters are somewhat positioned in the middle.
While sheds can vary in length and thickness, most Gordon setters lose between 5 and 10% of their total body hair during each shedding season. It may seem like a lot, but it’s pretty normal for double-coated breeds!
Reasons a Gordon Setter Shed Excessively
Occasionally, a Gordon Setter may shed more than normal. Many different factors may cause this problem, such as:
❌Certain health conditions
Unfortunately, some health conditions can cause excessive shedding in dogs. These include allergies, hormonal imbalances, and thyroid problems. If you suspect your Gordon Setter is shedding excessively due to a health condition, make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.
❌Low nutrition
A poor diet can lead to excessive shedding in Gordon Setters. Ensure your pup gets a balanced and nutritious diet to minimize shedding. You need to feed the right food in the correct quantity and proportions. Choose food with Omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins.
❌Stress or anxiety
Like humans, dogs can experience stress and anxiety that can lead to excessive shedding. Try to reduce stressors in their life by providing a stable routine and plenty of exercises. Talk to your vet about possible treatments if you think your dog suffers from stress or anxiety.
❌Certain medication
Some medications can cause dogs to shed more than normal. Your dog may be suffering from a certain health problem that requires medicine. If your Gordon Setter is taking medication, ask your vet if it could be causing excessive shedding.
❌Food allergies
Food allergies can also cause excessive shedding in some dogs. Not all dog food is suitable for all dogs, so your pup may acquire an allergy. Try to identify the allergen and switch their food accordingly. If your pup shows a food allergy, such as itching or scratching, take them to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
❌Bacteria issues
Certain bacteria or parasites can also lead to excessive shedding. Gordon Setters are naturally prone to ear infections, which can lead to excessive shedding if not treated properly. If your pup has an ear infection, it’s essential to take them to the vet for treatment as soon as possible.
❌Sunburns
Just like humans, dogs can get sunburns that can cause excessive shedding. It’s important to always use doggie sunscreen when taking your pup outdoors and do what you can to protect them from the sun!
What to Do to Minimize Shedding?
For anyone who lives with a Gordon Setter, a shedding season is an annual event that can seem to last forever. Those beautiful silky coats that are the envy of dog owners everywhere can also be a major pain to deal with when they start coming out in clumps.
If you’re looking for ways to minimize the amount of shedding in your home, here are a few tips to get you started.
🐾Brush, brush, brush
The first and most important thing you can do to minimize shedding is to brush your dog regularly. It will help remove loose hair before it can fall out on its own and end up on your furniture or clothing. Aim to brush your Gordon Setter at least once daily, using a quality dog brush designed for their coat type. A slicker brush or de-shedding tool is ideal for this purpose.
🐾Bath your pup
Bathing your Gordon Setter will also help to reduce shedding. It is because shampooing and conditioner help to loosen and remove dead hair from the coat. Be sure to use a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner to avoid irritating your dog’s skin. Bathe your dog every two weeks during shedding season for the best results.
🐾Feed them right
A healthy diet is vital for all dogs, but it’s especially crucial for those with double coats like Gordon Setters. It is because a healthy diet helps to promote a strong, healthy coat. Be sure to feed your Gordon Setter high-quality food appropriate for their age, weight, and activity level. Getting enough protein and essential fatty acids in their diet helps keep their coat looking its best. You may also want to consider supplements like fish oil or flaxseed oil to help reduce shedding.
🐾Keep them groomed
In addition to regular brushing, you should also have your Gordon Setter professionally groomed every few months. It will help remove dead hair trapped in their coat and prevent mats and tangles from forming.
By following these tips and ensuring your pup is healthy, you can help minimize the amount of shedding in your home. Gordon Setters may shed, but with proper care and nutrition, it doesn’t have to be excessive or overwhelming!
How to Care for Your Gordon Setter’s Coat
If you’re the proud owner of a Gordon Setter, you know these dogs are beautiful and require a lot of care and attention. One of the most important things you need to take care of is your dog’s coat. Getting your Gordon Setter groomed is a great way to ensure it stays healthy. It also ensures that you have a well-mannered companion.
There are many things to consider when getting your dog groomed, including the length of its coat, how often you should brush it, and the quality of its grooming products. Hiring a professional will be the best option if you have no experience grooming dogs.
Here are some tips on caring for your Gordon Setter’s coat, so it always looks its best.
🖤Brushing
Gordon Setters has a thick, silky coat prone to tangles and mats. That’s why it’s essential to brush your dog regularly – at least once a week – with a good quality dog brush. Start by brushing the hair on your dog’s back and sides, then move on to the hair on his legs and undercarriage. Be sure to pay special attention to areas where tangles or mats are likely to form.
While brushing your Gordon, check its ears for a stray hair or two. If your Gordon has ears full of long hair, be sure to trim them to keep them in tip-top shape.
🖤Bathing
Gordon Setters only need to be bathed when necessary, typically every 4-6 weeks. It will help keep the fur clean and free of any build-up from everyday activities.
When bathing your dog, use a mild shampoo that won’t strip the natural oils from his coat. After shampooing, rinse your dog thoroughly and apply a conditioner designed for dogs. Rinse the conditioner thoroughly, and towel dry your dog before letting him air dry or using a blow dryer set on low heat.
🖤Trimming
Gordon Setters do not require regular trimming but benefit from occasional trims. It helps keep the coat looking its best and can also reduce shedding. Trimming your dog’s nails and hair around the pads every few weeks would be best. It will help keep the coat looking neat and tidy. Professional groomers are typically the best option for trimming your pup’s coat.
🖤Grooming Tools
There are some fanciful dog grooming products, but you can get the job done with common products. In addition to a good quality dog brush, you’ll also need the following grooming tools:
- Wide-toothed comb: A comb will come in handy for detangling your dog’s coat.
- A slicker brush: A slicker brush can remove loose hair and debris from your dog’s coat.
- A pair of scissors: You’ll need scissors to trim your dog’s nails and cut away any mats or tangles that are hard to brush out.
- Nail clippers: Use nail clippers designed specifically for dogs to trim your Gordon Setter’s nails every month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you shave a Gordon Setter?
No, it is not advisable to shave a Gordon Setter. These dogs have thick double coats designed to keep them warm in cold climates and cool in hot climates. Shaving their coats can do more harm than good because it can cause irritation and skin damage. However, you may use your thinning shears or a #5F blade to gently cut the extra hair on the front and sides of the front legs.
What is the least shedding Setter breed?
Gordon Setters do not shed as much as other setter breeds, but they do still shed. Regular brushing and grooming can help reduce shedding and keep your pet’s coat looking its best. However, if you are looking for a low-shedding breed, consider the Irish Red and White Setter or the English Setter. These two breeds do not shed as much as the Gordon Setter.
Do Gordon Setters require high-maintenance grooming?
No, Gordon Setters do not require high-maintenance grooming. You can keep your dog’s coat looking its best with regular brushing and occasional bathing and trimming. However, if you do not have the time or resources to do these things yourself, then it is best to hire a professional groomer to do the job for you.
Which dog breed does not shed?
There is no such thing as a “non-shedding” dog breed since all dogs shed to some degree. However, if you are looking for a low-shedding breed, consider the Irish Red and White Setter or the English Setter. Both breeds do not shed as much as other setter breeds, such as the Gordon Setter. Other low-shedding breeds include the Poodle, Bichon Frise, and Shih Tzu.
Are Gordon Setters hypoallergenic?
Gordon Setters are close to being hypoallergenic. All dogs shed to some degree, and although Gordon Setters do not shed as much as other setter breeds, they still do. If you have allergies or sensitivities to dog fur and dander, it is best to look for a breed known to be hypoallergenic, such as a Poodle or Bichon Frise.
Final Words
Gordon Setters shed, but with regular brushing and grooming, you can keep the shedding to a minimum. The shedding season doesn’t have to be a nightmare! Be sure to use quality brushes and shampoo when bathing your Gordon Setter and trim his nails regularly. Professional groomers can also help keep your dog’s coat looking its best. You can ensure that your Gordon Setter looks and feels its best with the proper care.
