Bracadale Gordon Setters

About Doc ‘Fed

I grew up with a Golden Retriever and trained my first one in obedience when young.  Over the years I competed in Obedience Trials with Goldens but always admired the look and athleticism of the setters, the colour of the Gordon.  I met one ‘in person’ and was hooked.

Haida came from Sharptail kennel and won me over completely.  I showed her in conformation but my love is obedience and she was so eager to please.  In those days there was more ‘jerk and reward’ technique and before long she became sour and it wasn’t until I learned more about motivating her unique character that we began having success at the higher levels.  Gordons really have a “what’s in it for me?” attitude frequently, unlike the Goldens  “can’t I do it, huh? Huh?” so as a trainer, one has to be playful and find what motivates them.

Haida, then daughter Ceilidh, finished obedience and conformation championships and were bred to produce some lovely and talented dogs (see achievements).  My interest in the Bird Dog part of their character was ignited when Haida pointed a pigeon just following some instinct deep within her.  I discovered the world of Field Trials and Hunt Tests and explored that for years with the notable achievement of a Field Trial Championship with Bracadale’s DDG Buck, the first in 48 years in Canada.  Buck was trained by professional handler (and my husband) Bob Showers.

Where some breeders think their Gordons are stupid and stubborn, I have not found mine that way.  I love their character: humour, whimsy, intense interest in flying things, love of cuddles and sofas, great energy and love of running, ease with my children… I could go on.  It amazes me more people have never heard or considered them, I guess because they are uncommon.

I continue to breed occasionally, hoping for moderate-sized, multi-purpose dogs suitable for family life, performance events and training, and occasionally competitive in conformation though with the trend toward larger dogs with more coat, this can be problematic.  I still have a Golden Retriever but my Gordons are special.

Dr. W. A. Lloyd-Smith