General Introduction of the Breed
The English Setter, also known as “Setter Anglais” in French, is a distinguished and elegant breed known for its grace and excellent hunting abilities. Originating from England, this breed has a history that dates back more than 400 years. It was developed as a bird dog, primarily for setting and retrieving game birds. The breed’s refinement is attributed to Edward Laverack and R. Purcell Llewellin, who played a significant role in shaping the modern English Setter.
Table of Contents
| Weight | 45 to 80 pounds |
| Lifespan | 10 to 12 years |
| Diet | High-quality dry, wet, or raw food with sufficient protein, fats, and essential nutrients. Two meals per day for adults. Avoid harmful foods. |
| Care | Daily exercise (long walks or play), regular brushing (2-3 times/week), moderate sensitivity to extreme heat, regular grooming, ear cleaning, nail trimming. |
| Health | Generally healthy but prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Regular vet check-ups are crucial. |
| Color | White with specks of black, orange, lemon, or liver (belton patterns). |
| Nature | Intelligent, highly trainable, affectionate, friendly, gentle, good with children and other pets, playful, sensitive, enjoys companionship. |
| Price | $800 to $2,500 from reputable breeders. Adoption from rescue organizations is also an option. |
Physical Characteristics
This medium to large breed typically stands between 23 to 27 inches in height, with males usually being larger than females. Their weight ranges from 45 to 80 pounds, depending on gender and physical condition. The English Setter has a long, silky coat with feathering on the chest, legs, and tail, and it comes in various color combinations, including white with specks of black, orange, lemon, or liver (known as “belton” patterns). They possess dark, expressive eyes that convey intelligence and warmth, and their ears are long and drop down close to the head. The tail is elegantly feathered and tapers towards the end, often carried in a slightly wavy motion.
Personality and Temperament
English Setters are intelligent and highly trainable dogs, making them excellent companions for active families. They have a moderate to high energy level and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Known for their affectionate nature, they form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy human companionship. They are friendly, gentle, and generally good with children and other pets. Their hunting background makes them playful, and they often retain strong instincts for tracking scents. This breed is known for being sensitive and responds best to positive reinforcement training.
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Care and Maintenance Requirements
English Setters require daily exercise, making them better suited for homes with yards rather than small apartments. A long daily walk or play session is recommended to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Their silky coat requires regular brushing, at least two to three times per week, to prevent tangles and matting. They are moderately sensitive to extreme weather conditions, particularly intense heat. Regular grooming, ear cleaning, and nail trimming are necessary to maintain their overall hygiene and health.
Diet and Nutrition
A balanced diet consisting of high-quality dry, wet, or raw food is best for this breed. Owners should ensure the diet includes sufficient protein, fats, and essential nutrients to support their active lifestyle. Avoid foods containing artificial additives, chocolate, grapes, onions, and excess fatty treats. Portion sizes should be carefully managed, with adult English Setters usually needing two meals per day based on their weight and activity level.
Health and Common Medical Issues
English Setters are generally healthy but can be prone to certain genetic conditions, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Their average lifespan is around 10 to 12 years. Regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive health screenings are crucial to maintaining their long-term well-being. Routine parasite control and dental care are also important aspects of their healthcare.
Training and Behavior Management
This breed is intelligent and generally easy to train but requires patience and consistency. Early socialization and positive reinforcement methods help shape a well-mannered dog. Obedience training should begin at a young age to develop discipline and prevent unwanted behaviors. Due to their sensitivity, harsh corrections should be avoided in favor of rewards-based training to reinforce good behavior.
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Interaction with Other Animals and Humans
English Setters are excellent family companions and get along well with children due to their gentle nature. They also tend to be sociable with other pets, though early socialization helps ensure a harmonious relationship with smaller animals. They prefer companionship and do not thrive in isolation, making them best suited for families or individuals who can provide ample interaction and engagement.
Price and Availability
The cost of purchasing an English Setter from a reputable breeder ranges between $800 to $2,500, depending on lineage, breeder reputation, and location. Potential owners should consider adopting from rescue organizations, as many English Setters are in need of homes. When buying, it is important to choose responsible breeders who provide health screenings and proper documentation.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The English Setter is an ideal companion for active individuals and families who can meet its exercise, training, and grooming needs. This breed thrives in spacious environments where it can run and play freely. Potential owners should be prepared for daily activity, consistent training, and a commitment to their care needs. For those who are willing to invest time and effort, the English Setter offers unwavering loyalty, affection, and companionship.
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FAQ
What is the typical temperament of an English Setter?
English Setters are known for being intelligent, highly trainable, affectionate, friendly, and gentle dogs. They are generally good with children and other pets, enjoy human companionship, and are playful.
How much exercise does an English Setter require?
English Setters have a moderate to high energy level and require daily exercise. A long daily walk or play session is recommended to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They are better suited for homes with yards.
What are the grooming needs of an English Setter?
English Setters have a long, silky coat that requires regular brushing, ideally two to three times per week, to prevent tangles and matting. Regular grooming, ear cleaning, and nail trimming are also necessary.
Are English Setters good family dogs?
Yes, English Setters make excellent family companions. They are known for their gentle nature and typically get along well with children. They also tend to be sociable with other pets, especially with early socialization.
