English Setter
Other names: Setter
Origin
The breed’s origins go back to the 1500’s when it was known to be an effective bird dog. There are three different variations on the breed’s exact history. Some old writings suggest the breed is an offshoot of various Spanish land spaniels. Another theory is that the breed was created by crossings of the old Water Spaniel, the old Spanish Pointer and early Springer types. However there is both editorial and pictorial evidence to suggest that spaniels and setters were distinctly different at the time these crosses would have occurred. The earliest known text which speaks of the setter breeds is a translation, (‘Of Englishe Dogges’ by Dr Johannes Caius) from Latin in 1576 by Abraham Fleming but even this is not absolutely clear on whether or not the writings refer to the ancestors of the modern day setter. Edward Laverack is often credited as the founder of the modern-day English Setter. Around 1920 he acquired two dogs from Rev A. Harrison named Ponto and Old Moll. These lines had been kept pure for some 35 years. Mr Laverack succeeded in producing fine progeny that is today considered the key foundation of the breed. The first breed show to include English Setters took place in 1859 at Newcastle-upon-Tyne and from this moment on the breed’s popularity grew.
Description
This glamorous and elegant breed is both symmetrical and of substantial build. They are the epitome of strength, grace and stamina. Their long, flat coats are silky and well feathered. They have a free, graceful action that suggests speed and endurance.
| Size | Large |
| Colour | The term ‘belton’ (flecked) is used to describe the English Setter’s coat colour. The ground colour is always white with black (blue belton), or with lemon (lemon belton), or with orange (orange belton), or with liver (liver belton) or tricolour (a mix of blue belton with either liver or tan belton and tan). |
| Coat Length | Medium Long |
| Weight/Height Range | Bitches measure between 61 – 65cms at the withers and weigh around 27kgs. Dogs measure between 65 – 68cms and weigh around 28.5kgs. |
| Ailments | There are a few breed-specific problems and choosing a pup from healthy stock will reduce the possibility of these arising. These problems include hip dysplasia and PRA, which breeders are screening for. They are also quite prone to skin disorders and cancers. |
| Breed Classification |
English Setters belong to the gundog group and are working dogs, used as companions and seen in the show-ring. |
Feeding & Ownership
The English Setter is an undemanding dog to feed with no special dietary requirements; they generally have a good appetite.
| Food Cost | $15 to $20 |
Personality
English Setters are friendly, good-natured dogs that bond well with their families. They are lively, sociable dogs that will announce the arrival of visitors and then treat them as if they have known them all their lives! They are good with children and have a great tolerance level. They are naturally happy with other dogs and household animals.
| Intelligence | These are intelligent dogs that are easy to train but they can have minds of their own which has to be taken into account. Basic obedience training should begin as early as possible. |
| Energy | High |
| Suitability for Children | High |
| Tendency to Bark | Medium |
| Overall Exercise Requirement | This breed needs quite a lot of exercise. They do have a tendency to wander so make sure your garden is well fenced. |
| Suitability as a Guard Dog | Low |
| Ease of Transportation | Medium |
| Level of Aggression | Low |
| Other Animal Compatibility | High |
Grooming
English Setters do need a reasonable amount of grooming and trimming to keep them looking at their best. Regular trimming of the hair between their pads and under their ears is a must. Air must be allowed into their ears to prevent infections. The feathering will need attention now and again. If showing this breed considerably more attention will be required.
| Grooming Requirements | More than once a week |
| Amount of Hair Shed | Moderate |
Discover Other Dog Breeds
Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)