English Setter | Dog Breed

Last updated May 29, 2024

Size

Varies

Popularity

One of the Most Popular

Typical Lifespan

About 12 years

Exercise

English Setters thrive on daily long walks and active play sessions to stay happy and healthy.

Grooming Needs

English Setters require regular brushing several times a week to prevent matting and occasional trimming, especially around the ears, feet, and tail, to maintain their coat's health and appearance.

Country of Origin

England

Adaptability

English Setters are versatile and can thrive in both rural and suburban settings, though they require ample exercise and space to roam.

Shedding Level

English Setters shed a moderate amount year-round, with occasional heavier shedding during seasonal changes.

Energiness

English Setters are highly energetic and thrive on regular, vigorous exercise. They need plenty of physical activity to stay happy and healthy.

Vocality

English Setters are generally moderate barkers, using their voice mainly to alert or communicate with their owners.

Trainability

English Setters are moderately trainable, responding best to consistent, positive reinforcement and patience.

Dietary Needs

English Setters need a balanced diet rich in protein to support their active lifestyle and maintain lean muscle mass.

Weight Range

20-36 kg

Child Friendliness

Child-Friendly

Social Needs

For Whom?

A suitable home for an English Setter would be one where it can enjoy both active outdoor moments and peaceful resting times with the family. This breed thrives particularly well in a detached house with a spacious yard to run and explore. Natural and rural environments are ideal, but what's most important is that the owner has the time and energy to invest in the dog's physical and mental well-being.

Setters live best in a family that understands their need to move and expend energy in a positive way. They love long walks, running, and playing, so an active family or person who enjoys outdoor activities and being in nature would be ideal. They are also a great fit for families with children, as their patient and friendly nature makes them excellent playmates.

Since setters enjoy human company and are very social, they shouldn't spend long periods alone at home. They need companionship and activities, so a home where someone is present most of the day would be ideal. This dog is not just a pet, but a family member who wants to be involved in all family activities.

When considering the best home for an English Setter, the keywords are space, companionship, and activity. This dog brings a lot of joy and energy, and it deserves a home where its needs are understood and met.

Character

Affectionate

Energetic

Gentle

Friendly

The English Setter is a dog breed that charms with its gentleness and balanced nature. Its elegant appearance hides a heart as big as its silky coat. This noble dog is like a cool breeze bringing peace and harmony.

Originally a hunting dog, the English Setter has a strong hunting instinct and loves being outdoors and active. It's happiest when it can use its energy and intelligence in tracking and search games. Its lively and playful side comes out especially when it gets to follow its instincts in nature.

This breed is also very friendly and social, getting along with everyone and quickly forming friendships. The English Setter is patient and gentle with children, and knows how to be careful even with the smallest family members. Its sociability and positive attitude make it an ideal family dog.

The intelligence and trainability of the Setter are top-notch. It learns new skills quickly and deeply enjoys working with humans. This dog wants to please its owner and is ready to work hard for approval and praise.

Although active and energetic, the English Setter also knows how to relax and enjoy quiet moments. It appreciates family downtime and is always ready to curl up for a nap. Its calmness and adaptability make it a great companion for both active outings and lazy Sunday mornings.

The English Setter is a loyal and loving friend that brings balance and happiness to life. Its gentle eyes and calm presence remind us that beauty is found in peace and mutual understanding. In this breed, the warmth of the heart and the clarity of the mind combine, making it a valuable member of the family.

History

The history of the English Setter traces back to 16th century England, a time when hunting was not only a necessity but also a popular pastime among the nobility. These early setters were developed to hunt birds, with their primary task being to find and indicate game birds to hunters by "setting" low to the ground. This allowed hunters to net the birds or approach them within shooting range. Over time, breeding efforts focused on creating a dog that was not only a skilled hunter but also beautiful and well-balanced.

In the 19th century, the English Setter gained great popularity when Sir Edward Laverack and later Sir Purcell Llewellin developed the breed into its current form. Laverack focused on the breed's beauty and basic skills, while Llewellin worked to improve the setter's hunting attributes. Thanks to their efforts, the English Setter is known today not only as an elegant and graceful dog but also as an excellent hunting dog, particularly skilled in finding and marking birds.

By the 20th century, the English Setter had become a popular show dog and companion, yet its hunting instincts and abilities remained strong. Even though hunting was no longer a necessity, many hunters and dog enthusiasts still appreciated the English Setter's refined working style and its ability to cooperate with its owner.

Today, the English Setter is equally known as a family pet and a hunting partner. Its gentle and friendly nature, combined with beauty and intelligence, makes it a delightful companion. The breed's popularity has endured, and it remains esteemed both in hunting circles and among pet owners worldwide. Throughout its history, the English Setter has maintained its nobility, whether on the green fields of the hunting grounds or resting warmly in the lap of a home.