The Gordon Setter is a large, handsome sporting breed from Scotland, developed by the Fourth Duke of Gordon in the early 19th century for bird hunting. Distinguished by their striking black-and-tan coat, Gordon Setters are loyal, gentle family dogs — and like all large breeds, they benefit significantly from consistent dental care to prevent periodontal disease.
Dental Characteristics of Gordon Setters
Gordon Setters are large dogs with a strong, well-developed jaw and the full complement of 42 adult teeth in a scissors bite. As a large breed, they have proportionally bigger teeth than smaller dogs, but this does not make them immune to dental disease. In fact, large dogs can develop severe periodontal disease that goes unnoticed due to their size and stoic temperament.
Common Dental Problems
The most prevalent dental issue in Gordon Setters is periodontal disease, which begins as gingivitis and progresses to destruction of the ligaments and bone supporting the teeth. Without regular dental care, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, kidneys, and liver — a connection that is especially important in large breeds prone to heart conditions.
Gordon Setters are also at risk for tooth fractures — their size and bite strength means that hard chewing objects like bones, antlers, or hard nylon toys can crack teeth, requiring extraction or root canal treatment.
How to Brush Gordon Setter Teeth
Daily brushing is ideal, with a minimum of 3 times per week. Use enzymatic dog toothpaste and a large-headed dog toothbrush appropriate for big dogs. Never use human toothpaste — it contains xylitol which is toxic to dogs.
- Introduce the toothbrush and toothpaste gradually during puppyhood or during the first weeks with a new adult dog.
- Apply enzymatic toothpaste to the bristles.
- Brush the outer surfaces of all teeth using circular motions, from back to front.
- Pay close attention to the upper carnassial teeth (large shearing molars) where tartar builds fastest.
- Keep sessions to 2-3 minutes; reward after every session.
Dental Aids for Gordon Setters
- VOHC-accepted large dental chews — Greenies Large, Virbac CET chews in appropriate size
- Dental water additives — antimicrobial solutions added to drinking water daily
- Dental wipes — for quick maintenance
- Appropriate chew toys — rubber or rope toys; avoid hard objects that can fracture large-breed teeth
Professional Dental Cleaning
Most Gordon Setters need professional dental cleaning under general anesthesia every 12-18 months. The procedure includes full-mouth ultrasonic scaling, subgingival cleaning, polishing, and dental radiographs. For larger breeds, this procedure is typically very safe but pre-anesthetic bloodwork is recommended, especially for dogs over 6 years.
Professional cleaning costs range from $300-$800 depending on geographic location, complexity, and whether extractions are needed. Dental X-rays are an essential component that adds to the cost but is critical for detecting disease below the gumline.
Warning Signs of Dental Disease
- Persistent or worsening bad breath
- Visible yellow-brown tartar on teeth
- Red, swollen, or receding gums
- Reluctance to eat, chew on one side, or drop food
- Pawing at the mouth or sensitivity around the muzzle
- Loose or broken teeth
- Facial swelling, especially below the eye (possible tooth root abscess)
Puppy Dental Care
Gordon Setter puppies have 28 deciduous teeth that are replaced by 42 permanent teeth between 3-7 months. Large breed puppies may experience a more prolonged teething period than smaller breeds. Begin gentle mouth handling from the first week home, and introduce toothbrushing as soon as your puppy is comfortable — early habituation leads to lifelong dental compliance.
Related reading: Field Spaniel dental care guide