English Setter

Quick Facts

• Weight: 65 – 80 pounds | male
  45 – 55 pounds | female
• Height: 25 – 27 inches | male
  23 – 25 inches | female

The Look of a English Setter

English Setters have refined, medium-sized frames covered in silky speckled coats that grow long on the ears, tails and chests. Their lean heads have long, square muzzles, dark round eyes and medium-length ears. They have elegant necks that slope down to deep chests and level backs. Their long, tapered tails are usually carried horizontally. Overall, the English Setter combines gracefulness and strength.

Traits

• Easygoing
• Sensitive
• Athletic
• Dependable
• Outgoing
• Elegant

Ideal Human Companion

• Outdoorsy types
• Singles
• Retirees
• Families
• Joggers

What They Are Like to Live With

Active outdoors and relaxed indoors, English Setters are very adaptable companions. They also have impeccable manners, treating both family members and new faces with respect and kindness. English Setters can also be a little sensitive: They appreciate lots of attention and want to be involved with their families. English Setters are extremely athletic outside, making them the perfect jogging partners. Yet, they have a gentle and playful way with children.

English Setters have the highest risk of low thyroid levels. (English Setter. Photography by Chamille White / Shutterstock.

Things You Should Know

Loaded with stamina and strength, English Setters need plenty of room to run. So, they might get a little restless living in an apartment. A good, vigorous walk every day will keep them healthy and happy.

English Setters can live as long as 12 years. Generally healthy, some English Setters can develop hip and elbow dysplasia. They are fairly easy to groom, just needing a good brushing every few days. English Setters shed very little.

English Setter History

Believed to be a cross between the Water Spaniel, Spanish Pointer and Springer Spaniel, the English Setter has been a cherished bird dog in Britain since at least the 16th century. To this day, the English Setter is cherished for its beauty and dependability, as both a sporting dog and a household companion.

Read more about English Setters on Dogster.com:

Get to Know the English Setter: Energetic, Enchanting — and Endangered