The Standard of the breed.. A comparison

A comparison of the breed standards from 1939, which is the accepted field standard, to the show biased standard of 2002, and where the breeders of today's "dual dogs" try to meld the two.

The 1939 Standard...

General Impression: A stylish, rather racy built, medium size, muscular dog of clean setter type, usual length legs, and of symmetrical conformation throughout. Strong fairly shoprt back and short tail, a fine head, clearly lined, intellegent expression, clear colors, and straight or slightly waved coat.

The 2002 Standard...

General Appearance

The Gordon Setter is a good-sized, sturdily built, black and tan dog, well muscled, with plenty of bone and substance, but active, upstanding and stylish, appearing capable of doing a full day’s work in the field. He has a strong, rather short back, with well sprung ribs and a short tail. The head is fairly heavy and finely chiseled. His bearing is intelligent, noble, and dignified, showing no signs of shyness or viciousness. Clear colors and straight or slightly waved coat are correct. He suggests strength and stamina rather than extreme speed. Symmetry and quality are most essential. A dog well balanced in all points is preferable to one with outstanding good qualities and defects. A smooth, free movement, with high head carriage is typical.

The 1939 Standard...

Size

Shoulder height for males 22 inches to 25 inches; for females, 21 inches to 24 inches.

The 2002 Standard...

Size

Shoulder height for males, 24 to 27 inches; females, 23 to 26 inches. Weight for males, 55 to 80 pounds; females, 45 to 70 pounds. Animals that appear to be over or under the prescribed weight limits are to be judged on the basis of conformation and condition. Extremely thin or fat dogs are discouraged on the basis that under or overweight hampers the true working ability of the Gordon Setter. The weight-to-height ratio makes him heavier than other Setters.

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These two standards alone comprise most of the differences between the Gordons of yesteryear and the larger dogs of today. Why make a field dog larger? Does it improve on his ability to perform his work? Or, does it actually hinder it?
The old standard call for a medium sized, racy dog... The latest standard, a "good sized" Sturdily built dog. Where does it end??
What the Gordon Setter needs is a registry based on performance standards, not merely conmformation standards for appearance reasons.
Can it ever happen?? It was tried before, but, if changes are not made in a timely fashion, I fear the once noble gundog breed is doomed to a life as the darling of the show ring...

More to come...