English Setter

Breed Overview

The English Setter is a medium-sized sporting dog, a member of the Setter family which also includes Irish, Gordon and Red Setters. Developed in England in the 1500s, English Setters are energetic and affectionate dogs. They have a strong working instinct and a passion for retrieving, but also make loyal and friendly family dogs. They are recognizable by their long, silky coat that typically ranges in color from white to almost black. The English Setter is an excellent choice for a family pet or hunting companion.

Care and Grooming

Due to their thick, silky coat, English Setters require regular grooming to maintain their appearance, including brushing them twice a week. Bathe sparingly as not to strip away any of the natural oils in the coat. Their ears must also be cleaned regularly.

Training and Socialization

English Setters are highly trainable and eager to please. Start training and socialization early and keep the sessions short and positive. Training must be consistent and involve plenty of praise and rewards. Setters respond particularly well to food rewards.

Health and Wellness

English Setters have an average lifespan of 10-12 years. Responsible breeders will health test their breeding stock to ensure healthy puppies. But like all breeds, English Setters can be predisposed to certain health problems such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, allergies, and bloat. Proper nutrition and exercise are key components of health for English Setters.

Living Environment

English Setters need plenty of space to run and explore. They can thrive in a variety of environments and do not require a huge yard or acreage to be happy and healthy. But, they should have room to play and exercise.

Temperament and Personality

The English Setter is an excellent family and companion dog, they love attention and will go out of their way to please their owners. They are extremely loyal, gentle, and docile, and bond quickly with families. Despite their close relationship with humans, English Setters can become easily bored if not sufficiently challenged.

Common Challenges

A common challenge of English Setters is their strong hunting instinct. They have a tendency to wander and will chase after any small animal they find. Proper socialization and training is key for overcoming this common challenge and preventing unwanted behaviors.