English Setters are a wonderful and good-natured breed. They make great family pets; they are gentle, affectionate, and intelligent. English Setters get along well with other dogs and people. They have an easy nature and love to be with their people.
They are elegant but solid dogs of beauty and charm. The word “belton” is unique to the breed and describes the speckled coat patterns of colors that vary in color; liver, lemon, and orange among them.
The English Setters we know today were developed by 2 breeders, Edward Lavarack, whose dogs became famous for their beauty and refinement, these dogs are generally used in the show ring, and referred to as “Bench” Setters. R. Purcell Llewellyn produced a setter who was more proficient in the field, known today as the field bred English Setter. The majority of our setters are of the field variety.
Setters get their name from their distinctive stance; a sort of crouch or “set” upon finding their quarry. …once they catch the scent they go “on point” and do not move until the hunter releases them.
Temperament – Friendly, Mellow, Merry
- The English setter is a gentle, friendly, placid dog that is especially good with children. He is mild-mannered, and sensitive, and loves to both give and receive affection. He does not respond well when spoken to, or handled in a harsh manner. He is more likely to do the opposite of what you demand of him, if handled this way.
- These dogs are known to be alert and protective of their families and territories, but will calm down quickly when told to.
- English setters are very sociable dogs. They enjoy being with both people and other dogs. They do not do well isolated.
- They are very active as puppies, but are known to mellow out considerably when they fully mature.
- Setters need plenty of physical and mental exercise, a tired Setter is a happy Setter! If not exercised enough they can revert to destructive behavior in the house and become difficult to manage.
- English Setters can live with cats, birds, and other dogs especially if they are raised together. Introducing an adult Setter, with a high prey drive can be a challenge, but usually one good swipe from the cat, and he’s good to go. Introductions to other dogs are not a problem if done correctly.
Stats
- Group: Sporting Group (AKC)
- Color: White with overlay markings in the following colors: Orange, Blue, Liver, Lemon, Tricolor (Blue/Tan/White).
- Hair Length: Medium
- Size: Medium
- Shedding: Moderate Shed
- Height: 25-27 in (male; 23-25 in (female)
- Weight: 65-80 lbs (male); 45-55 lbs (female)
- Life Expectancy: 12 years
Grooming
Their coats and nails require upkeep. Brushing daily or a few times a week will not only keep their coats mat-free and shiny but will enhance that special “you and me time”. Bathing and trimming can either be done at home or you can take them to a groomer about every 6-8 weeks.
Training
You and Your English Setter will benefit from at least the basic commands. The “Recall” is the most important command you can teach your dog, You could save his life someday by being able to call him to you immediately. The English Setter only wants to please you, and is very receptive to positive reinforcement. Any other type of training method used, and you will have a disobedient dog. Setters are very sensitive, especially to any kind of harsh handling or harsh voice commands. They will stop wanting to please, if handled this way.
Exercise
A tired Setter is a happy Setter! They do require active exercise, their age dictates as to how much. As a setter matures, they can get by with less, as opposed to a puppy who needs time to expend all the pent-up energy. When outside their “bird dog” instincts can take over and we suggest that they remain leashed, in a secure fenced yard or trained to an invisible fence system. It is often said that English Setters are “on” outside and “off” inside where they become cuddly couch potatoes.