Quick Facts about the English Setter
- Origin: England
- Weight: Males: 29–36 kg, Females: 20–29 kg
- Life expectancy: 10–12 years
- Coat Colour: Belton patterns: blue, orange, lemon, liver, or tricolour
- Breed Group: Sporting
The English Setter is a graceful, feathered gundog known for its elegant movement, gentle personality, and superb nose. Often described as “the gentleman of the dog world,” this breed combines hunting heritage with companionable charm.
English Setter History
The breed originated in England more than 400 years ago, developed from spaniels and early setting dogs to locate game birds and crouch—or “set”—until the hunter arrived. Edward Laverack and R. Purcell Llewellin refined the breed in the 19th century, creating both show and field lines.
While the English Setter was once a staple of upland bird hunting, it’s now equally valued as a gentle family companion and show dog, particularly in Europe and North America.
English Setter Temperament
English Setters are affectionate, sociable, and mild-mannered. They form strong bonds with their families and generally get along well with children and other dogs. These dogs are sensitive and eager to please, thriving on positive reinforcement and gentle leadership.
Though calm indoors, they require plenty of daily exercise and mental engagement. Their friendly nature makes them poor guard dogs—but excellent companions.
Note: This breed doesn’t handle long periods of isolation well. Without company or activity, it may develop separation anxiety or boredom-related behaviours.
Health and wellness
The English Setter’s long, silky coat needs routine brushing and occasional trimming to prevent mats. Like many sporting breeds, they’re active and require joint-conscious care during growth and old age.
Their deep chest predisposes them to bloat, and some lines may carry heritable health issues—so health testing is essential in responsible breeding.
Significant problems:
Deafness (especially in white/blue belton lines)
Hip and elbow dysplasia
Hypothyroidism
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Bloat (gastric torsion)
Life expectancy: 10–12 years
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