The English Setter: A Gentle Companion

Do English Setters make good pets? Absolutely! The oldest of the setter breeds, the English Setter is considered more easy-going than the Gordon or Irish Setters. Still they are superb bird dogs as well as family pets and show dogs.

History

Dating back as far as the 1300s, it is believed this breed's ancestry includes large Water Spaniels, Springer Spaniels and Pointers. Originally called "setting spaniels" these dogs would "set" game by locating it then crouching down nearby to indicate its position. This would allow hunters to throw a net over the birds. When shooting birds on the wing became popular, setters were bred to adopt a more upright stance, making them more visible in the field.

In 1825, Setter fancier Edward Laverack began a campaign to breed pure English Setters. For over 35 years he successfully inbred his dogs, producing beautiful specimens of the breed. Ultimately his dogs formed the foundation stock from which all modern English Setters were bred.

Purcell Llewellin is another noted contributor to English Setter heritage. He crossed dogs from Laverack's stock with unrelated Setters; efforts that resulted in a well honed field variety of the breed. To this day there is a divergence between English Setters bred for conformation and those primarily used in sport.

Temperament

Described by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as "gentle" and having a "lively tail," the English Setter is an affable breed. They love to be around people, and fare poorly when confined to kennels. They are also excellent with children, being relatively tolerant of ear and tail pulling; however, as with all dogs, supervision is required.

Bred to cover long distances, English Setters need to be given the opportunity to stretch their legs and burn off excess energy daily. This can be accomplished off-leash in a fenced-in yard or by running alongside their owner for a good long jog. Once exercised, these dogs settle down indoors and can tolerate smaller any living quarters.

Size

The shortest of the setters, the English Setter stands about 24-25 inches tall at the withers. The females are daintier weighing in at 50-55 pounds. Males should appear masculine without being course, weighing 60-65 pounds. Show dogs are generally larger than the field variety.

Maintenance

The white coloring and long feathering of an English Setter's coat make it difficult to maintain. They should be brushed several times per week and bathed no less than every six weeks. Some trimming will also be required, for which trips to the groomer are recommended. In addition to their good looks, attention must be paid to the English Setter's health. They can suffer from problems that include deafness and hip or elbow dysplasia.

Gentle and loyal, the English Setter makes a fine family companion. He is happiest living indoors while getting lots of outdoor exercise. Anyone considering bringing home an English Setter must be dedicated to his grooming needs; however, the love and affection he offers in return is priceless.