English Setter

The English Setter is one of the oldest gundog breeds, with a history in England dating back at least 400-500 years. They were developed from crosses of various older land spaniels and possibly Spanish Pointers. These dogs were bred by English sportsmen to work on upland game birds like grouse, quail, and pheasant. Their distinctive hunting style involved ranging out ahead of the hunter, locating birds by scent, and then “setting” – crouching low to the ground to indicate the birds’ presence, allowing the hunter to approach and often net the birds (before firearms became prevalent).

Two primary figures in the development of the modern English Setter in the 19th century were Edward Laverack and Richard Purcell Llewellin. Laverack developed a strain known for its beauty and refined appearance, while Llewellin focused on field performance, creating a line that became highly successful in field trials. Many modern English Setters trace their lineage back to these two influential lines. The breed’s elegance and gentle nature also made them popular companions. The English Setter was one of the first breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club upon its founding in 1884.

The English Setter is renowned for its gentle, affectionate, and sweet-natured temperament. They are typically very friendly and outgoing dogs, forming strong bonds with their families and often displaying a merry, playful disposition. “Gentlemanly” is a term often used to describe their demeanor. They are generally excellent with children, being patient and tolerant, and usually get along well with other dogs and pets, especially if socialized from a young age. They thrive on human companionship and do not do well if left alone for extended periods.

While they are active and energetic outdoors, English Setters are often calm and relaxed indoors once their exercise needs are met. They are intelligent and can be somewhat sensitive, responding best to positive reinforcement and gentle handling. They are not typically aggressive but will bark to announce visitors or alert their family to anything unusual. Their combination of beauty, athleticism, and loving nature makes them cherished companions.

The English Setter boasts a beautiful, long, flat, and silky coat with characteristic feathering on the ears, chest, abdomen, underside of the thighs, back of all legs, and on the tail. This elegant coat requires regular grooming to keep it free from tangles, mats, and looking its best. They are considered average shedders.

Brushing two to three times a week with a soft slicker brush, pin brush, and a long-toothed metal comb is essential, paying particular attention to the feathered areas where mats can easily form. Regular trimming, especially around the feet, ears, and under the tail, can help maintain a neat appearance and prevent debris from collecting. Some owners opt for professional grooming. Baths should be given as needed, using a quality dog shampoo. Their long, pendulous ears must be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent ear infections. Routine nail trims and dental care are also important components of their grooming regimen.

English Setters are energetic and athletic sporting dogs that require a significant amount of daily exercise to maintain their physical fitness and mental well-being. They were bred for long days in the field and possess considerable stamina. This is not a breed content with a sedentary lifestyle or just a quick walk around the block.

Aim for at least an hour or more of vigorous activity each day. Excellent exercise options for an English Setter include:

• Long, brisk walks, jogging, or running alongside a bicycle (once fully mature and conditioned).
• Off-leash play in a large, securely fenced area where they can run freely and stretch their legs. Their hunting instincts mean they may follow scents or chase birds if not contained.
• Games of fetch or retrieving.
• Hiking in varied terrain.
• Canine sports such as hunt tests, field trials, agility, or obedience.

Without a sufficient outlet for their energy and intelligence, English Setters can become bored, restless, and may develop undesirable behaviors. They thrive in active homes where they can be a part of their family’s outdoor adventures and have opportunities to use their natural abilities.

English Setters are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for these issues. Potential health concerns include:

• Hip Dysplasia: A common concern in many sporting and large breeds, involving malformation of the hip joint. Elbow dysplasia can also occur.
• Congenital Deafness: Can occur, particularly in dogs with extensive white in their coat. BAER testing can identify this in puppies.
• Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): An inherited eye condition that can lead to blindness.
• Allergies: Both skin and food allergies can affect the breed.
• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus – GDV): A life-threatening emergency common in deep-chested breeds.
• Autoimmune Thyroiditis:** An autoimmune condition affecting the thyroid.