English Setter Dogs
Intelligent Hunting Breed

English Setter dogs have been evolving for over four hundred years and are best known in the field as pointers and bird retrievers. Their ancestors are believed to include the Water Spaniel, the Springer Spaniel and the Spanish Pointer.

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This breed has the distinction of being participants at one of the earliest formal dog shows in 1859.

The gentleman most credited with the modern-day breed type is Edward Laverack, who began breeding setters in England around 1825. Many of today's top show dogs came from the Laverack lines.

The English Setter dogs are in a class by themselves when it comes to grace, elegance and style. Their lean and well-balanced body is covered with a coat of unusually interesting and attractive coloration.

Characteristics of the English Setter Dogs

English Setters have one of the most friendly and sweetest dispositions and make excellent companions.

They are very affectionate and people-oriented and love attention. They are always ready to go no matter what their owners want to do - they just want to make sure they are included in every family activity.

This breed does not enjoy being alone and will experience some separation anxiety if left too long.

They are intelligent and sensitive dogs that respond well to consistent, yet never harsh, training methods. Your Setter will amply reward the time and patience that is committed to training.

Many owners have said they would never have any other breed.

Physical Stats And Care

Height: 24-25 inches
Weight: 40-70 lbs
Color variations: Black/White (Blue Belton), Orange/White (Orange Belton), Lemon/White (Lemon Belton), Liver/White (Liver Belton), Blue Belton/Tan, and White

Coat: The long silky coat needs daily brushing to remain in healthy and attractive condition. The texture of the coat tends to attract burrs or plant debris, so check frequently to prevent matting, especially after field walking.

Most owners in the know say that bathing every two weeks is needed as well as learning proper dog grooming techniques so as not to damage the beautiful coat.

Health Notes

The English Setter has a life expectancy of 12 years and is considered an overall healthy breed without significant issues.

The National Breed club recommends the following screenings for the setter:

BAER Testing (hearing)
Hips
Elbows
Thyroid

The Irish Setter can be subject to Bloat which is a life-threatening condition. Learn more about bloat here.

How Active is this Breed?

This is a very active dog and will not be happy unless he is given plenty of rigorous exercise at least twice daily.

If someone in the family is a jogger, he will be an excellent buddy on a run - once conditioned to the activity..

Ideal Living Space

English Setter dogs will do best in a house with a good-sized yard where they can run and play.

A securely fenced yard is recommended as these dogs are very good "high" jumpers.

English Setters With Children?

English Setter dogs are a very affectionate breed and have an excellent reputation with children who have already been taught how to be considerate of pets.

However, the caution remains that it is always best to supervise children when they are interacting with pets.

Senior Or Less Active Families

Were it not for the high exercise requirements, senior or more sedentary owners would adore having English Setter dogs as companions.

Share Your Knowledge and Pictures

Do you have an English Setter? If you do, we know you must be proud to own this renowned hunting dog. Plus you have the "insider" information that would be of great value to others who are interested in this breed!

We invite you to share your Setter's pictures and his/her story as well as your knowledge about the breed in general.

You can upload photos and tell your dog's story here. For inspiration, read some of the stories already submitted by other dog lovers.

English Setter DogsIntelligent Hunting Breed