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Dog Breed

English Setter

Breed Overview

Breed Name: English Setter

Origin: United Kingdom

Breed Group: Sporting

Physical Characteristics

Size: Medium to Large

Height: Male: 25–27 inches (64–69 cm), Female: 23–25 inches (58–64 cm)

Weight: Male: 65–80 lbs (29–36 kg), Female: 45–70 lbs (20–32 kg)

Coat Type: Long, flat, and silky with feathering on ears, chest, legs, and tail

Coat Colors: Belton pattern (white with flecks of color): blue (black), orange, lemon, liver, or tricolor

Grooming Needs: High (regular brushing and trimming needed)

Shedding: Moderate to High

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Gentle, friendly, affectionate, elegant, sociable

Intelligence Level: High

Energy Level: Moderate to High

Health Information

Lifespan: 10–12 years

Common Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, deafness, hypothyroidism, elbow dysplasia

Care

Nutrition Needs: Balanced, high-quality diet; monitor weight and adjust based on activity

Exercise Needs: High – thrives on daily outdoor play, running, and activities like fieldwork or agility

Space Requirements: Best with a yard or rural space; not ideal for apartments without regular exercise

Noise Sensitivity: Low

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: High

Socialization Tips: Eager to please and quick to learn; responds well to positive reinforcement

Good with Children: Yes, usually friendly and easygoing

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, usually friendly and easygoing

Good with Other Pets: Yes, generally good with early introduction

Training: Eager to please and quick to learn; responds well to positive reinforcement

Description

The English Setter is a graceful and gentle gundog, originally bred in the UK to locate and "set" upland game birds. These dogs are known for their elegant feathered coat and sweet, sociable temperament. They are wonderful family companions—especially with active households—and also excel in field trials and obedience. Their silky coat needs frequent brushing to prevent tangles and matting, and they shed moderately to heavily, especially during coat-blow seasons.

With their high energy, English Setters need daily physical activity and mental stimulation, and they thrive when given a mix of structured training and outdoor adventure.

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History

Origin: The English Setter has a rich history dating back to the 14th century, with early references to "setting spaniels" found in works like The Master of Game by Edward, Duke of York, and The Book of St Albans by Dame Juliana Berners. The breed was developed from crosses of ancient spaniels, Spanish Pointers, and other hunting breeds.
Development: Initially, English Setters were used for net hunting, where they would "set" or crouch to indicate the presence of birds, allowing hunters to spread nets to catch them. With the advent of firearms, the breed adapted to pointing game for hunters. Significant contributions to the modern breed were made by Edward Laverack and Richard Purcell Llewellin in the 19th century, who developed distinct strains known as Laverack and Llewellin Setters.
Global Spread: The English Setter was introduced to North America in the late 19th century, with Laverack Setters arriving in the United States in 1874. Today, the breed is recognized by major kennel clubs worldwide, including the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Kennel Club of the United Kingdom.
Recognition: The English Setter is celebrated for its hunting prowess and elegant appearance. It is known for its medium size, long silky coat with flecks of color (belton), and its ability to point game birds like quail, pheasant, and grouse.
Today, the English Setter is valued both as a skilled hunting companion and a loving family pet. It requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to thrive. The breed is divided into field-bred and show-bred varieties, with field-bred dogs being leaner and more suited to hunting, while show-bred dogs are stockier and more suited for the show ring.

Ideal Owner

Active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor time and want a sweet, graceful companion

Similar Breeds

Irish Setter, Gordon Setter, English Springer Spaniel, Brittany