English Setter
Updated November 30, 2025
The English Setter is an elegant, substantial and symmetrical gun dog suggesting the ideal blend of strength, stamina, grace, and style. They are known for being intensely friendly and good-natured, making them excellent family pets for active households.
Friendly, Affectionate, Gentle, Good-natured, Mischievous
20-36 kg
24-27 inches
10-14 years
Blue Belton, Orange Belton, Lemon Belton, Liver Belton, Tricolour (blue belton and tan or liver belton and tan)
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About English Setter
The English Setter is an elegant, substantial and symmetrical gun dog suggesting the ideal blend of strength, stamina, grace, and style. They are known for being intensely friendly and good-natured, making them excellent family pets for active households.
What Makes English Setters Special
The English Setter is a graceful and elegant gundog known for its friendly and gentle nature. They are both beautiful to look at and a joy to live with.
They form strong bonds with their families and are known for being affectionate and loyal companions.
While they have a playful and sometimes mischievous side, they are generally mellow and easygoing in the home, provided they get enough exercise.
English Setter History & Origin
The English Setter is one of the oldest gundog breeds, with a history that can be traced back to 14th century England. They were developed from setting spaniels, which were trained to 'set' or crouch down to indicate the presence of game birds for hunters.
The modern English Setter is largely credited to the efforts of two breeders in the 19th century: Edward Laverack and R. Purcell Llewellin.
Laverack developed a strain of English Setters known for their beauty and companionship, which became the foundation of the show-type setters.
Llewellin focused on developing a strain with exceptional working abilities, and these are often referred to as Llewellin Setters.
The breed was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1884.
The name 'setter' comes from the distinctive stance the dog takes when it finds game, a behavior that is still seen in the breed today.
English Setter Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
English Setter Appearance
The English Setter is a medium-sized dog with a graceful build, an elegant head, and a long, feathered coat.
Their most striking feature is their unique speckled coat pattern, known as 'belton'.
Physical Features
Ears
Set low and back, of moderate length, hanging in neat folds close to the cheek and covered with silky hair.
Eyes
Large, round, and dark brown, with a soft, intelligent expression.
Nose
Black or dark brown, depending on the coat color.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
Medium length with long feathering on the ears, chest, belly, and legs.
Coat Color
The ground color is white with flecks of a darker color, a pattern called 'belton'. Colors include blue belton (black and white), orange belton, lemon belton, and liver belton. Tricolor (blue belton and tan or liver belton and tan) is also seen.
Tail
Long and tapering to a point, carried level with the back, with a fringe of silky hair.
English Setter Temperament
English Setters are known for their gentle and friendly disposition. They are very sociable dogs that enjoy the company of both people and other dogs.
They are considered to be excellent family companions and are particularly good with children due to their patient and mild-mannered nature.
While they are alert and will protect their family and territory, they are quick to calm down when instructed. They are not known to be aggressive.
English Setters are intelligent and eager to please, but can also have a mischievous and independent streak, a trait common in hunting dogs.
They are very active as puppies but tend to mellow out considerably as they mature. They thrive on human interaction and do not do well when isolated for long periods.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
English Setters are a generally healthy breed with a lifespan of 10-14 years. However, like all purebreds, they can be prone to certain genetic health conditions.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Responsible breeders will screen their stock for genetic conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups, a healthy diet, and regular exercise are key to a long and healthy life.
How to Care for a English Setter
English Setters are active dogs that require a good deal of exercise and regular grooming to maintain their beautiful coat. They are best suited for active families who can provide them with the physical and mental stimulation they need.
Grooming
The English Setter's long, silky coat requires regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. Brushing at least a few times a week is recommended.
Pay special attention to the feathering on the ears, chest, legs, and tail, as this is where mats are most likely to form.
The hair between their pads and under their ears needs regular trimming to prevent infections, particularly by allowing air to circulate in the ear canal.
Bathing should be done as needed. They are prone to getting dirty due to their love for the outdoors.
Professional grooming may be necessary for some owners to manage the coat.
Training
English Setters are intelligent and generally easy to train, but they can have a bit of a stubborn streak. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques.
Patience and consistency are key, as their hunting instincts can sometimes make them easily distracted, especially by birds.
Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended to ensure they grow into well-behaved companions.
They are sensitive dogs, so harsh training methods should be avoided.
Diet
A high-quality dog food appropriate for their age (puppy, adult, senior) and activity level is recommended.
Like many large breeds, they can be prone to bloat and stomach problems, so it's best to feed them smaller, more frequent meals rather than one large one.
Monitor their food intake and weight to prevent obesity, which can contribute to health problems.
Exercise
English Setters are a high-energy breed and require a significant amount of exercise, at least one to two hours per day.
They enjoy activities like brisk walks, jogging, and having a secure area to run off-leash.
Without sufficient exercise, they can become bored and may develop destructive behaviors.
They make excellent companions for active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Environment
Due to their energy levels and size, English Setters are not ideally suited for apartment living. They do best in a home with a large, securely fenced yard.
They thrive in an environment where they are part of the family and have plenty of interaction with their people.
They are adaptable to various climates but their long coat requires attention in both hot and cold weather.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Best suited to a home with a large, securely fenced yard.
Climate Adaptability
Can adapt to various climates, but needs protection from extreme heat.
Apartment Living
Not recommended for apartment living due to their high energy levels and size.
Best Suited For
Ideal for active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are English Setters good family dogs?
Yes, their gentle and friendly nature makes them excellent family dogs. They are typically very good with children.
Do English Setters shed a lot?
They are moderate shedders. Regular brushing helps to manage the shedding and keep their coat healthy.
How much exercise does an English Setter need?
They are a high-energy breed and require at least an hour to two hours of vigorous exercise daily.
Are English Setters easy to train?
They are intelligent and generally easy to train, but they can have an independent streak. Positive reinforcement and patience are key.
Can English Setters live in apartments?
Due to their high energy levels and need for space, they are not well-suited for apartment living.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization and training are crucial. Provide a diet formulated for large-breed puppies.
Senior Care
Adjust exercise to their ability. Monitor for signs of arthritis and other age-related health issues.
First-Time Owner Tips
Can be a good choice for first-time owners who are committed to providing the necessary exercise and grooming.
Looking for a English Setter?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.