The English setter is a kind, regal dog in the home, and a tenacious yet patient dog in the field. Read on for more on this versatile breed.
There’s something confoundingly royal about the English setter. Perhaps that sense of royalty lies in the ancient origins of the breed — it’s nearly 500 years old. Or it could be the elegant outline of the dog. That, too, is beautiful and commanding.
But, the overall package of looks, behavior, and utility make the English setter a resplendent partner, in the field or at home. Read more about this fabulous breed below.
Meet the English Setter
The American Kennel Club classifies the English setter as a medium-size breed, ranging from 23″ to 27″ and 45-80 pounds, with females at the lower end of the weight and size scale.
An athletic and lithe form combines with a regal head and larger ears often curlicued with waves. The coat is long and silky in parts, and it requires more maintenance than many birding breeds.
Often, hunters clip coats prior to hunting. The spotted look is referred to as belton, with some folks referring to the spotted breed as a Belton English setter.
More sensitive than your typical retriever, the English setter requires a steady but quiet hand in training. In turn, the breed is wildly devoted, kind, and easy to live with.
Although mellow in the home, they need daily exercise for fitness and stimulation. And like most hunting dogs, their instincts can run amuck if they’re left to their own devices.
But, English setters are known to be much more willing than stubborn. And their natural affinity for humans and other creatures makes them a joy to live with. Positive reinforcement will further imbue this breed with good manners.
Breeders have maintained high-quality bloodlines over the centuries. Because of this, the English setter tends to be a healthier dog than the more popular breeds.
However, it’s still imperative that breeders check and test for health problems, including hip and elbow dysplasia, genetics for blindness, and more. The life expectancy of an English setter is about 10 to 12 years, similar to most retrievers.
Hunting the English Setter
