English Setter
Elegant, gentle setter with beautiful feathered coat and excellent nose
Breed Origins
The English Setter is one of the oldest gun dog breeds, with origins tracing back to 14th century England. The breed likely descends from crosses between Spanish Pointer, large Water Spaniel, and English Springer Spaniel. The name "setter" derives from their distinctive hunting behavior—the dogs would "set" or crouch when they found game, allowing hunters with nets to approach.
The modern English Setter was refined in the 19th century by two influential breeders: Edward Laverack and R. Purcell Llewellin. Laverack developed beautiful show dogs over 50 years of careful breeding, while Llewellin crossed Laverack stock with working setters to create exceptional field dogs. Today, "Laverack" and "Llewellin" lines still exist, representing show and field types respectively.
The AKC recognized the English Setter in 1884 as one of its foundation breeds. The breed has maintained popularity as both a stunning show dog and capable field companion, though the two types have diverged significantly.
Development as a Hunting Dog
English Setters were originally used for hunting with nets before the advent of firearms. When the dog located birds, it would crouch low ("set"), allowing hunters to cast nets over the birds. With the introduction of shotguns in the 17th and 18th centuries, the setting behavior evolved into the upright point we see today.
The breed's hunting style emphasizes thorough coverage of ground with an elegant, effortless gait. English Setters are known for their exceptional noses and methodical approach to finding birds. They work at moderate range, making them excellent choices for foot hunters in varied terrain.
Today's field-bred English Setters (Llewellin type) are smaller and more athletic than show dogs, specifically bred for hunting ability. They remain popular upland bird dogs, particularly prized for grouse and woodcock hunting in the eastern United States.
Historical Timeline
Setting spaniels mentioned in historical records
Edward Laverack begins his breeding program
Llewellin develops field-bred line
AKC recognizes breed
Physical Characteristics
Size
Show type: Males 25-27 inches, 65-80 lbs. Females 23-25 inches, 55-65 lbs. Field type: Generally smaller and lighter, 40-55 lbs, bred for athletic performance.
Coat
Long, flat, silky coat with feathering on ears, chest, belly, legs, and tail. The coat protects against brush but requires regular grooming. Field dogs typically have less coat than show dogs.
Colors
White with intermingled darker hairs creating "belton" patterns: blue belton (black), orange belton, liver belton, lemon belton, or tricolor. The belton pattern is unique to English Setters.
Build
Elegant and balanced with a noble, aristocratic appearance. Long, lean head with soft expression. Deep chest and well-laid back shoulders enabling fluid, tireless movement.
Breed Standard Highlights
- Head: Long and lean with well-defined stop; muzzle equal to skull length
- Expression: Soft, gentle, intelligent; dark brown eyes
- Ears: Set low and back, hanging in neat folds close to head
- Tail: Carried in line with back; long feathering forms "flag"
- Movement: Free, graceful, efficient; covers ground with minimal effort
The Belton Pattern
The distinctive "belton" pattern—named after a village in England—refers to the intermingled color on white background. Unlike ticking or roan, belton consists of individual colored hairs interspersed throughout the white coat, creating a unique marbled effect.
Personality
The English Setter is often described as the "gentleman's gentleman" of bird dogs. They possess a sweet, gentle temperament combined with eager hunting instincts. These dogs are affectionate, people-oriented, and tend to be more sensitive than some other sporting breeds.
In the field, English Setters are enthusiastic hunters with excellent noses and natural pointing instinct. They work with a joyful attitude, their feathered tails wagging as they quarter through cover. While they have hunting drive, they're not as intense as some breeds, making them easier to live with as house dogs.
The breed's gentle nature means they respond best to positive training methods. Harsh corrections can damage their sensitive spirits. They want to please their owners and will work hard to earn praise and approval.
Family Compatibility
English Setters make exceptional family dogs. Their gentle, patient nature makes them wonderful with children of all ages. They typically greet everyone as a friend and lack the protective instincts of some other breeds.
While they need regular exercise, English Setters are calmer indoors than some sporting breeds. They enjoy lounging on the couch as much as running in the field. This dual nature makes them adaptable to various lifestyles, provided they receive adequate physical activity.
Excellent—patient, gentle, and tolerant
Generally excellent—friendly and social
Adaptable; needs yard but calmer indoors
Training Approach
English Setters are intelligent dogs that learn quickly with proper motivation. However, their sensitive nature requires a gentle approach. Positive reinforcement and patience yield the best results, while harsh methods can create a timid, uncooperative dog.
Early socialization is important to develop confidence. The breed's natural friendliness rarely presents issues, but exposure to various situations helps create a well-rounded adult. Basic obedience should begin early, as English Setters can be somewhat independent.
The breed can have a stubborn streak, particularly if they catch an enticing scent. Reliable recall training is essential. Many trainers find English Setters respond well to training that incorporates play and keeps sessions short and engaging.
Field Training
English Setters have strong natural instincts that surface early. Most well-bred dogs will point naturally when exposed to birds. Field training develops and refines these instincts while establishing handler control.
Bird Introduction (8-12 weeks)
Early exposure to bird scent awakens hunting instinct. Keep it fun and pressure-free.
Developing Range (4-8 months)
Allow natural hunting pattern to develop. Work on basic commands without inhibiting drive.
Steadiness Work (8-18 months)
Develop steady to wing and shot. English Setters learn steadiness readily with patient training.
Finished Work (18+ months)
Polish backing, retrieving (if desired), and response to hand signals.
Common Health Issues
English Setters are generally healthy but, like many purebreds, are prone to certain genetic conditions. Responsible breeding with health testing has reduced the incidence of many issues.
Hip Dysplasia
Moderate occurrence in the breed. OFA evaluation recommended before breeding.
Elbow Dysplasia
Can occur; elbow evaluation advised for breeding dogs.
Deafness
Congenital deafness occurs, particularly in dogs with excessive white. BAER testing available.
Hypothyroidism
Can develop in middle age. Regular thyroid screening recommended.
Lifespan & Genetics
English Setters have an average lifespan of 12 years, with many living into their early teens. Field-bred dogs often remain active hunters well into their senior years.
Recommended Health Tests
- • Hip evaluation (OFA)
- • Elbow evaluation
- • BAER hearing test (especially for breeding)
- • Thyroid evaluation
- • PRA Optigen DNA test (some lines)
Ear Care
The English Setter's long, feathered ears require regular attention. Check ears weekly for signs of infection, clean as needed, and dry thoroughly after swimming. Ear infections are common in breeds with pendulous ears.
Hunting Style
The English Setter hunts with a graceful, flowing motion that's a pleasure to watch. They quarter the field systematically, using air scent to locate birds from a distance. When they catch scent, they typically slow and work carefully toward the source before locking on point.
English Setters are known for their exceptional noses and ability to handle delicate scenting conditions. They excel in thick cover where their careful hunting style prevents birds from flushing prematurely. Many hunters consider them the ideal dog for ruffed grouse and woodcock in dense eastern forests.
The breed typically works at moderate range, making them excellent choices for foot hunters. They're responsive to direction and generally maintain good contact with their handler while still covering ground thoroughly.
Best Game & Terrain
Primary Game Birds
Ideal Terrain
- • Dense forest and woodland
- • Thick alder runs (woodcock)
- • Young aspen stands (grouse)
- • Southern quail fields
- • Mixed upland habitat
Grouse Dog Excellence
Many consider the English Setter the ultimate ruffed grouse dog. Their careful hunting style, soft mouth, and ability to navigate dense cover make them perfectly suited to the challenging sport of grouse hunting.
The Llewellin Setter
Field-bred English Setters are often called "Llewellin Setters" after R.P. Llewellin who developed hunting lines in the 1800s. These dogs are smaller, lighter, and more athletic than show-bred English Setters, specifically bred for hunting performance.
Exercise Needs
English Setters have moderate to high exercise needs. They're more laid-back than some sporting breeds but still require daily activity to stay healthy and well-behaved. A well-exercised English Setter is calm and content at home.
Exercise Level
1-2 hours daily of moderate to vigorous activity
• Long walks or hiking
• Off-leash running in safe areas
• Field training and hunting
• Fetch and retrieving games
• Swimming (many enjoy water)
Good News: English Setters have an "off switch" that many sporting breeds lack. They can be active in the field all day, then relax peacefully on the couch in the evening.
Grooming & Nutrition
Grooming Requirements
The long, feathered coat requires regular maintenance:
- • Brush thoroughly 2-3 times per week
- • Check for mats behind ears, under legs
- • Clean ears weekly to prevent infection
- • Trim feet and between pads as needed
- • Field dogs may need coat trimmed shorter
- • Professional grooming optional but helpful
Nutrition
English Setters are moderate eaters:
- • High-quality dog food appropriate for activity level
- • 2-3 cups daily, split into two meals
- • Adjust quantity based on condition and activity
- • Some individuals prone to weight gain—monitor closely
- • Increase calories during hunting season
Finding a Breeder
For a hunting English Setter, specifically seek breeders of field-type (Llewellin) dogs. Show-bred English Setters are beautiful but often lack the drive and stamina for serious hunting. The two types have diverged significantly over the past century.
The English Setter Association of America maintains breeder referrals. For field dogs, look to breeders active in field trials or hunting tests, or those with established reputations in the hunting community.
Visit breeders and observe their dogs if possible. Field-type English Setters should be athletic, eager, and show obvious hunting instinct. Ask about hunting backgrounds, health testing, and see puppies' parents in action if possible.
What to Look For
- Health clearances (hips, elbows, BAER hearing test)
- Field-bred (Llewellin) bloodlines for hunting
- Parents actively hunted or competed
- Good temperament—friendly, not shy
- Breeder's reputation in hunting community
Rescue Options
English Setter rescue groups exist throughout the country. Adult rescues can make excellent pets, and some come with hunting backgrounds. The English Setter Association of America coordinates rescue efforts.
Expected Costs
Field-bred English Setter puppies typically cost $800-$1,500. Show-bred dogs may cost more. Proven hunting bloodlines from established breeders can range from $1,200-$2,000.
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