The English Setter is one of the oldest gundog breeds, with origins tracing back to the 1500s. Developed in England and Scotland, it was bred as a bird dog for locating and “setting” game birds (freezing in a crouch position), allowing hunters to net or shoot them. The modern breed was refined in the 19th century by Edward Laverack and later R. Purcell Llewellin, whose bloodlines laid the foundation for the two main English Setter types: show (Laverack) and field (Llewellin).
Valued for their gentle nature, grace, and beautiful coat, English Setters were popular with sportsmen and aristocrats. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 1884, making it one of the first sporting breeds registered in the U.S.
The English Setter is loved by hunters, families, and dog enthusiasts for its sweet temperament, elegant appearance, and versatile field skills. Though not as common as retrievers or spaniels, it has a dedicated following, especially in field trials and dog shows. It also excels as a therapy dog or family pet thanks to its friendly, soft-hearted personality.
This breed is known for its flowing, feathered coat, graceful build, and athletic elegance.
• Coat: Long, flat, and silky with feathering on the ears, chest, belly, legs, and tail.
• Color (Belton Patterns):
o Blue Belton (white with black ticking)
o Orange Belton, Lemon Belton, Liver Belton, or Tricolor (blue and tan on white)
• Size:
o Height: 23–27 inches (58–69 cm)
o Weight: 45–80 lbs (20–36 kg)
• Head & Expression: Long, refined head with dark, expressive eyes and a noble appearance.
• Ears: Low-set, long, and covered in soft waves of hair.
• Tail: Carried level with the back, tapering to a fine point with flowing fringe.
• Body: Athletic yet elegant—built for stamina, field agility, and long-distance work.
The English Setter is known for its friendly, affectionate, and even-tempered nature—a true gentleman (or lady) of the sporting world.
• Sweet and Loving: Gentle with children and strangers—makes friends easily.
• Energetic but Mellow: Active outdoors, but relaxed and calm inside the home.
• Eager to Please: Intelligent and trainable, though can be a bit soft or sensitive.
• Sociable and Loyal: Enjoys companionship and social interaction.
• Natural Hunter: Excellent at scent work, pointing, and retrieving, especially in open fields.
Perfect for people who want a graceful, trainable, and sweet-natured companion, especially those who enjoy time outdoors.
• Dual Personality: Elegant athlete outside, affectionate lap dog inside.
• Great Family Dog: Gentle with kids, cats, and other dogs when socialized.
• Beautiful Appearance: The feathered coat and spotted pattern are breathtaking.
• Trainable and Attentive: Excels in obedience, rally, and field sports.
• Loving and Loyal: Deeply bonded with their people—sensitive and devoted.
Though elegant, the English Setter is relatively easy to care for with proper routine and attention.
• Training:
o Use gentle, reward-based methods—this breed is sensitive to harsh corrections.
o Start early with basic obedience and recall, especially for field types.
• Exercise:
o Needs 60–90 minutes of activity daily—walking, running, or playing in a safe area.
o Thrives on scent work, hiking, or dog sports.
• Grooming:
o Brush 3–4 times per week to prevent mats and tangles in feathered areas.
o Regularly clean ears and trim nails.
• Nutrition:
o High-quality food tailored to medium to large active breeds.
o Monitor weight and watch for food allergies.
• Companionship:
o Loves being with its family—doesn’t enjoy being left alone for long.
English Setters are generally healthy but may be prone to:
• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
• Deafness (especially in white or Belton-patterned dogs)
• Hypothyroidism
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
• Ear Infections (due to long ears)
With routine vet care, they typically live 11–15 years, staying active and affectionate well into their senior years.
Compared to the Irish Setter, the English Setter is more mellow and less flashy, with quieter energy indoors. It’s gentler and more elegant than the English Springer Spaniel, and less intense than the Pointer. In contrast to retrievers, it has a softer, more sensitive temperament, but still excels in hunting and companionship.
This breed is perfect for gentle, active households who enjoy daily walks, weekend adventures, and quiet evenings at home. It’s ideal for those seeking a loving, elegant companion that’s easy to train and a pleasure to live with.
If you prefer a low-maintenance coat or need a more independent dog, another breed might be better suited.
United Pet Club connects you with trusted breeders, rescue groups, and care resources for this graceful breed. Whether you’re planning to hunt, hike, or simply snuggle on the couch, the English Setter offers the perfect blend of beauty, biddability, and heart.