The English Setter is among the sweetest of setters, distinguished by its unusual speckled coat. They are elegant, athletic, goofy, and playful. Bred as companions and birddogs, one of these pups even spent time in the White House! President Hoover owned an English Setter.
Originally from England, this large and medium-energy breed can grow to between 45-80 pounds and lives an average of 10-12 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Sporting group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Pointing, retrieving |
| Origin | England |
| Breed group | Sporting |
| Average lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Size | Large |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 94 |
| Family | Gundog, spaniel |
| Date of origin | 1300s |
| Original function | Bird setting and retrieving |
| Today's function | Pointing and retrieving |
| Average size of male | Height: 25 Weight: 60-65 |
| Average size of female | Height: 24 Weight: 50-55 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | High energy |
| Exercise needs | High |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Very affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Very friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Very friendly |
| Ease of training | Moderately easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Grooming needs | Moderately maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS AN ENGLISH SETTER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
The English Setter is a friendly, calm, and cheerful dog. This breed is very affectionate and playful. They are dedicated and boisterous dogs while they're working or playing; at home, they're content to be by your side.
This is a great family dog but can be shy with younger children. They'll always do best when supervised with other dogs and children.
WHAT IS ENGLISH SETTER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
This is a somewhat active breed that will need rigorous daily exercise. They also crave human company, so don't leave your English Setter alone for too long!
These dogs are alert and vigilant but not particularly protective. English Setters can be somewhat prone to barking.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN AN ENGLISH SETTER?
This breed can be challenging to train; they tend to be somewhat stubborn. At the same time, English Setters are sensitive people-pleasers. They'll respond well to gentle, patient, consistent training techniques and positive reinforcement using food rewards. This breed excels at hunting and retrieving.
Be sure to socialize your English Setter pup early and often. This shouldn't be a hardship; these furry friends are fairly outgoing. They tend to be good canine citizens at dog parks.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO ENGLISH SETTERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Newborn English Setters have white coats. As adults, their feathered single coats are made up of long flowing hair. Their distinctive color pattern is known as belton markings, named for Belton, England.
English Setters are moderate, seasonal shedders who will need brushing every other day to prevent matting. Plan for baths about once a month.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO ENGLISH SETTERS HAVE?
This is a generally healthy breed. Some English Setters can be susceptible to deafness and hip or elbow dysplasia. This breed loves to eat, so be mindful about meals and snacks.
Breed history has moved while this section is under construction. Please check out the first tab for fun facts about this breed's history. You can also read on to learn about this breed's ideal family situation.
