English Setter

Temperament & Personality

You'll find your English Setter to be a gentle and affectionate companion. They often earn the nickname "gentleman of the dog world" for their calm, friendly demeanor. English Setters form strong bonds with their families and thrive on human attention. They're known to be good with children and usually get along well with other pets once properly introduced.

While typically quiet indoors, English Setters have a lively side: thanks to their bird-hunting heritage, they enjoy running, playing fetch, and exploring by scent. With enough exercise and mental stimulation, they are well-behaved and devoted. These dogs are intelligent but can sometimes be independent or sensitive, so a patient, positive training approach works best.

Care, Living Environment, & Grooming

English Setters need plenty of daily exercise to stay happy. Aim for at least 60–90 minutes of activity like brisk walks, hiking, or play. A securely fenced yard is ideal, as Setters love to run freely and follow interesting scents. They adapt to indoor living if they get sufficient exercise, but apartments can be challenging unless you're diligent with walks. Their single-layer coat is long and silky; English Setters tolerate cool weather well but can overheat in high heat. Always provide fresh water and shade during hot days.

Grooming is a key commitment with this breed. Brush your Setter's coat at least 2–3 times per week to prevent tangles, especially in feathered areas (ears, chest, legs). Plan on bathing roughly every 6–8 weeks, or when they get very dirty. Clean the floppy ears weekly to avoid infections, and check their eyes for any discharge. Don't forget regular teeth brushing and nail trims.

Weekly tasks:

• Brush coat thoroughly (pay attention to ears, belly, legs)
• Play active games
• Inspect ears and eyes

Monthly tasks:

• Bathe if dirty
• Trim nails
• Brush teeth
• Check for skin mats or pests

Feed a high-quality diet formulated for medium-to-large active dogs. Most adult English Setters do well on two meals per day. Monitor their weight, as they can gain weight if under-exercised. Overall, a consistent routine of exercise, brushing, and basic care will keep your English Setter healthy and content.

Training & Socialization

English Setters are generally intelligent and eager to please, but they are also sensitive. Use gentle, positive-reinforcement methods (treats, praise) when training. They respond best to calm, patient guidance rather than harsh discipline. Early socialization is important: introduce your Setter puppy to many people, pets, and environments to help them become well-adjusted adults.

Keep training sessions fun and consistent, as these dogs can have a stubborn streak. Because they are natural explorers, start recall and obedience early to ensure they listen off-leash. In short, English Setters thrive with friendly, reward-based training and clear leadership.

Health Considerations

English Setters live around 10–12 years. They are generally healthy, but watch for inherited conditions:

• Congenital Deafness: White-coated puppies may be born deaf or lose hearing
• Hip/Elbow Dysplasia: Abnormal joint development can lead to arthritis and mobility issues
• Hypothyroidism: Low thyroid function causing lethargy or weight gain
• Eye Disorders: Conditions like entropion or ectropion (eyelids rolling) may occur

Responsible breeders screen for these issues. Recommended health tests include BAER hearing evaluation, hip and elbow X-rays (OFA or PennHIP), and thyroid panels. Regular vet check-ups and weight control help minimize risks.

Cost of Ownership

The average annual cost of owning an English Setter is around $1,800. Major expenses include:

• Food (~$500/year): High-quality dry food for medium-large active dogs
• Routine Vet Care (~$400): Wellness exams, vaccines, preventatives (flea/heartworm)
• Insurance (~$400): Optional pet health insurance for illness/injury coverage
• Grooming (~$200): Brushes, shampoo, ear-cleaning supplies (professional grooming is occasional)
• Other (~$300): Toys, treats, licenses, boarding

First-year costs are higher (puppy supplies, spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations). Budgeting for extra training or health screenings is wise to ensure lifetime care.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Affectionate and gentle with family; great with kids
• Intelligent and trainable with positive methods
• Adaptable and calm indoors; playful and energetic outdoors
• Friendly with other dogs and pets when socialized

Cons

• Requires a lot of exercise (can become bored or anxious if inactive)
• High grooming needs (long coat prone to mats)
• Strong prey drive (may chase cats or wildlife)
• Can be sensitive or stubborn; needs gentle, consistent training
• Not a great guard dog (generally too friendly with strangers)

Fun Facts

• English Setters were among the first bird-hunting dogs
• Their name comes from the old word "setting spaniel" for the way they crouch ("set") on game.
• Paintings from as early as the 15th century show setter-like dogs.
• In the 1800s, breeder Edward Laverack refined the breed (Laverack Setters) for stamina and beauty.
• Today, they are prized for both fieldwork and companionship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do English Setters shed a lot?

They have a long silky coat but only moderate shedding year-round. Regular brushing will control loose hair and keep the coat healthy.

Are English Setters good apartment dogs?

Not usually. English Setters have high energy and need space to run. They thrive with a yard and long daily walks. In a city, you'd need to commit to vigorous exercise every day.

How much exercise does an English Setter need?

At least 1–2 hours daily. They love vigorous activities like jogging, hiking, fetch, or scent games. After a good workout, they'll rest quietly at home.

Can first-time owners handle an English Setter?

Yes, if you're prepared. English Setters are friendly and trainable, but they need patient, consistent training and plenty of care. First-time owners should be ready for daily exercise and regular grooming.

References

1. PetMD – English Setter
2. The Spruce Pets – English Setter Dog Breed Profile
3. PetHealthNetwork – English Setter
4. English Setter Association of America – Health & Genetics