English Setter Breed Guide
Also known as: Setter
Elegant and gentle, English Setters are sporting dogs whose feathery coats and friendly nature make them beautiful, active household members.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Large
Weight
20-36 kg
Lifespan
10-13 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Large
Weight
20-36 kg
Lifespan
10-13 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
About English Setters
Developed in England during the 19th century from various spaniel and pointer breeds, the English Setter was bred as a gun dog for setting game birds. Their elegant appearance and gentle mouth made them favourites among British sportsmen and dog show enthusiasts.
Their long, silky coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting and professional grooming every few months. English Setters are gentle and affectionate, known for their calm indoor behaviour and enthusiastic outdoor energy.
They are devoted to their families and generally friendly with strangers and other dogs. English Setters need substantial daily exercise and excel at activities that engage their hunting instincts. While generally healthy, potential owners should be aware of hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and bloat that can affect the breed.
Complete Care Guide for English Setters
Expert advice on keeping your English Setter healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Maintaining optimal nutrition for an English Setter requires careful attention to their unique dietary needs and energy requirements. These active, athletic dogs thrive on high-quality protein sources that support muscle maintenance and repair, particularly given their enthusiasm for exercise and outdoor activities.
Portion control plays a vital role in managing the breed's tendency toward weight gain. Regular monitoring of body condition and adjusting meal sizes accordingly helps prevent obesity-related complications that could impact their mobility and overall health. A structured feeding schedule, typically consisting of two measured meals daily, supports better weight management and digestive health.
Life stage considerations significantly influence nutritional requirements for English Setters. Puppies need carefully balanced calcium and phosphorus levels to support proper bone development, while adult dogs require adequate protein and healthy fats to maintain their energy levels. Senior English Setters often benefit from modified protein levels and additional joint-supporting nutrients.
Special attention should be directed towards joint health through nutrition, as English Setters can be predisposed to conditions like hip dysplasia. Incorporating appropriate levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, either through diet or supplementation, supports long-term joint function and mobility.
How healthy is your English Setter?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about English Setters from our community of pet parents
English Setters are known for their gentle, friendly and affable temperament. They have a natural love for people, making them excellent companions. They are also highly intelligent and trainable, but can be a bit stubborn at times. This breed is generally good with children and other dogs, but early socialisation is always beneficial.
Dog Breeds Similar to English Setter
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the English Setter
Pointer
Classic bird dogs with natural style, Pointers are athletic, gentle sporting dogs whose instinctive pointing ability and friendly nature suit sporting enthusiasts.
Irish Setter
Stunning red coats house energetic, outgoing personalities, Irish Setters are sporting dogs whose beauty matches their enthusiastic, friendly nature.
Gordon Setter
Scotland's black and tan beauties, Gordon Setters are loyal sporting dogs whose intelligence and striking appearance appeal to dedicated sporting enthusiasts.