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. 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.

• Life Span: 10-12 years

• Group: Gun Dog, Sporting Dog (AKC)

• Recognized By: CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

• Color: White with overlay markings in the following colors: Orange, Blue, Liver, Lemon, Tricolor (Blue/Tan/White).

• Hair Length: Medium

• Size: Large

• Shedding: Moderate Shed

• Male Height: 24-27 in (61-69 cm)

• Male Weight: 55-80 lbs (25-36 kg)

• Female Height: 23-26 in (58-66 cm)

• Female Weight: 40-70 lbs (20-32 kg)

The English Setter can be affected by a number of health problems, including:    

• Hip Dysplasia (common in larger breeds of dog; avoid strenuous exercise early in life and see a veterinarian regularly)

• Elbow Dysplasia

• Hypothyroidism

• Congenital deafness (puppies can be tested for this at about five weeks of age)

In addition, all members of the breed are susceptible to certain cancers and skin diseases. Most of these ailments are genetic, and selecting an English Setter puppy carefully from reliable breeders (or another reliable source) will sharply minimize the risk for your dog.

The English Setter needs inspection at least once a week to check for matting behind the ears or along any feathering he may have. Followed by a good brushing. This is a good time to check for ticks and possible fleas, as well.

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.

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. He can be become destructive if not getting enough exercise.