Dog breed · Sporting / Gundog
English Setter
An elegant bird dog that combines a mellow, affectionate house presence with real stamina and drive in the field. English Setters do best with owners who can give them both companionship and exercise.
Large11–12 yearsEnglandNeeds more space
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Sporting / Gundog
- Origin
- England
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 20–36 kg (45–80 lb)
- Height
- 61–69 cm
- Lifespan
- 11–12 years
- Coat
- Long, silky, flat feathered coat
- Temperament
- GentleSociableMellow at homeBird-driven afield
History
Developed in England over centuries from spaniel-type dogs to locate and point game birds for hunters using nets, then guns.
Appearance
A long, lean dog with a silky feathered coat, most often in a speckled 'belton' pattern of blue, orange, lemon or liver on white.
Exercise and activity
An hour or more daily; field work, long hikes and scent games suit the breed's pointing heritage well.
Care and grooming
Brush several times weekly to prevent mats in the feathering, especially behind the ears and on the legs, and check for grass seeds and burrs after outdoor work.
Health considerations
- Hip dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Deafness
- Elbow dysplasia
- Canine leukocyte adhesion deficiency