Dog Breeds - English Setter

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of warmth a breed typically demonstrates towards family members and people they are familiar with can vary. Certain breeds may appear distant towards everyone except their owner, whereas other breeds tend to treat anyone they know as their closest companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
It's crucial to assess a breed's level of tolerance and patience towards children as well as their overall family-friendly nature. It is important to reinforce that dogs should always be supervised when in the presence of young children or children of any age who have limited experience with dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The overall friendliness of a breed towards other dogs is an important factor to consider. While it is necessary to supervise and manage interactions and introductions between dogs, some breeds naturally possess a higher inclination to get along with other dogs, whether it be in a home or in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
It's important to consider the amount of fur and hair a breed is likely to leave behind. Breeds that shed heavily will require more regular brushing have a higher tendency to trigger specific allergies and will likely necessitate more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
When assessing a breed, it's essential to consider the frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance requirements. It's important to evaluate the time, patience and budget you have available for such care. Additionally, it's worth noting that all breeds require regular nail trimming as part of their grooming routine.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
Another aspect to consider is how prone a breed is to drooling. If you place a high value on cleanliness you may find that breeds which leave trails of slobber on your arm or create large wet spots on your clothes might not be the ideal choice for you.
COAT TYPE +
Double, Silky
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
It's worth considering the breed's general disposition towards strangers. Certain breeds tend to exhibit reserved or cautious behavior around unfamiliar individuals, regardless of the setting. On the other hand, there are breeds that are naturally welcoming and will happily greet new humans whenever they come across one.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed typically displays for play even beyond puppyhood is an important consideration. Certain breeds will maintain a strong desire to play games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. On the other hand, some breeds will be content to relax on the couch with you for the majority of the time.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
A breed's inclination to alert you when strangers are present is an important factor to consider. Such breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, whether it's the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, it's noteworthy that these breeds are also likely to become comfortable with strangers who enter the house and are welcomed by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
It's relevant to consider how adaptable a breed is to change. This encompasses their ability to adjust to variations in living conditions, noise levels, weather, daily schedules and other day-to-day life changes. Some breeds are more flexible and can handle these transitions with ease, while others may require more time and support to adapt.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
An important aspect to consider is how trainable a dog breed is and their willingness to learn new things. Some breeds are naturally eager to please their owners and are more inclined to follow instructions and learn new commands. On the other hand, there are breeds that exhibit a more independent streak preferring to do as they please, when and where it suits them.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation needs of a breed are vital to consider. High-energy breeds thrive on regular physical activities and are eager for adventures. They enjoy running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are content with a more relaxed lifestyle and are often content to lounge around and snooze. Understanding a breed's exercise requirements helps ensure their overall well-being and happiness.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
Considering the vocalization tendencies of a breed is important. Some breeds may vocalize frequently barking at every passer-by or even at birds in the window, while others only bark in specific situations. It's worth noting that even barkless breeds can still be vocal using other sounds to express themselves. Understanding a breed's vocalization patterns can help in choosing a breed that aligns with your preferences and living situation.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The amount of mental stimulation a breed requires is an important consideration for their overall happiness and well-being. Purpose-bred dogs that have specific jobs often require mental exercises involving decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other qualities. Without adequate mental stimulation, these dogs may become bored and resort to creating their own activities, which may not align with what you desire. Providing appropriate mental stimulation for a breed helps keep their minds engaged and prevents them from engaging in undesirable behaviors.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of warmth a breed typically demonstrates towards family members and people they are familiar with can vary. Certain breeds may appear distant towards everyone except their owner, whereas other breeds tend to treat anyone they know as their closest companion.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

It's crucial to assess a breed's level of tolerance and patience towards children as well as their overall family-friendly nature. It is important to reinforce that dogs should always be supervised when in the presence of young children or children of any age who have limited experience with dogs.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The overall friendliness of a breed towards other dogs is an important factor to consider. While it is necessary to supervise and manage interactions and introductions between dogs, some breeds naturally possess a higher inclination to get along with other dogs, whether it be in a home or in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

It's important to consider the amount of fur and hair a breed is likely to leave behind. Breeds that shed heavily will require more regular brushing have a higher tendency to trigger specific allergies and will likely necessitate more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

When assessing a breed, it's essential to consider the frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance requirements. It's important to evaluate the time, patience and budget you have available for such care. Additionally, it's worth noting that all breeds require regular nail trimming as part of their grooming routine.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

Another aspect to consider is how prone a breed is to drooling. If you place a high value on cleanliness you may find that breeds which leave trails of slobber on your arm or create large wet spots on your clothes might not be the ideal choice for you.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Double, Silky

COAT SPECTRUM

Medium

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

It's worth considering the breed's general disposition towards strangers. Certain breeds tend to exhibit reserved or cautious behavior around unfamiliar individuals, regardless of the setting. On the other hand, there are breeds that are naturally welcoming and will happily greet new humans whenever they come across one.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm a breed typically displays for play even beyond puppyhood is an important consideration. Certain breeds will maintain a strong desire to play games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. On the other hand, some breeds will be content to relax on the couch with you for the majority of the time.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

A breed's inclination to alert you when strangers are present is an important factor to consider. Such breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, whether it's the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, it's noteworthy that these breeds are also likely to become comfortable with strangers who enter the house and are welcomed by their family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

It's relevant to consider how adaptable a breed is to change. This encompasses their ability to adjust to variations in living conditions, noise levels, weather, daily schedules and other day-to-day life changes. Some breeds are more flexible and can handle these transitions with ease, while others may require more time and support to adapt.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

An important aspect to consider is how trainable a dog breed is and their willingness to learn new things. Some breeds are naturally eager to please their owners and are more inclined to follow instructions and learn new commands. On the other hand, there are breeds that exhibit a more independent streak preferring to do as they please, when and where it suits them.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise and mental stimulation needs of a breed are vital to consider. High-energy breeds thrive on regular physical activities and are eager for adventures. They enjoy running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are content with a more relaxed lifestyle and are often content to lounge around and snooze. Understanding a breed's exercise requirements helps ensure their overall well-being and happiness.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Medium

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The amount of mental stimulation a breed requires is an important consideration for their overall happiness and well-being. Purpose-bred dogs that have specific jobs often require mental exercises involving decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other qualities. Without adequate mental stimulation, these dogs may become bored and resort to creating their own activities, which may not align with what you desire. Providing appropriate mental stimulation for a breed helps keep their minds engaged and prevents them from engaging in undesirable behaviors.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Blue Belton	046
Blue Belton & Tan (Tri-Color)	351
Lemon Belton	116
Liver Belton	381
Orange Belton	135
White	199

PATTERNS

About The Breed

The English setter is a medium-sized sporting dog that possesses both striking looks and a gentle temperament. It is part of the four British setters recognized by the AKC each originally bred for different terrains in England, Ireland and Scotland. English Setters are known for their elegance and solid build combining beauty with charm. Their unique coat patterns, referred to as "Belton," feature speckled colors such as liver, lemon, and orange.

Beneath their showy coat, English Setters are well-balanced hunters and typically stand around 25 inches at the shoulder. They have a graceful neck that holds their long oval-shaped head with pride. Their dark brown eyes radiate a gentle expression. Although they have a merry and playful nature, English Setters maintain a reputation as the true gentlemen of the dog world. They are known to get along well with other dogs and people exhibiting a sociable and friendly demeanor.

English Setters make wonderful companions and their ability to share living spaces and bring joy to their owners is highly regarded by experienced dog handlers.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR AN ENGLISH SETTER

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your English Setter: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	English Setters, as a rule, possess robust health. Ethical breeders conscientiously examine their breeding dogs for potential health issues, which may include elbow and hip dysplasia as well as deafness. Additionally, it is crucial for owners to be aware of the possibility of bloat an abrupt and perilous abdominal condition. To safeguard their beloved pets, owners must familiarize themselves with the symptoms indicative of this condition and also be prepared to take appropriate action. Moreover, consistent monitoring of the ears is advised to promptly identify any signs of infection. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Hip Evaluation Thyroid Evaluation BAER Testing Elbow Evaluation

Grooming

	In order to maintain the magnificence of their long, lustrous coats, it is essential to brush English Setters at least once per week using a soft bristle brush. For tackling areas where tangles may be starting to form, a long-toothed metal dog comb is an invaluable tool ensuring a gentle approach. Neglecting these knots and mats can lead to discomfort for your canine companion while also creating the potential for skin problems to arise. A regular trimming routine, particularly around the face, feet and other areas, contributes to the overall neat appearance of your English setter. Monthly nail trims should not be overlooked and bathing the dog every four to six weeks serves as an effective way of maintaining a clean and healthy coat and skin.

Exercise

	To ensure the continued happiness and well-being of an English setter regular exercise is a must. Ideally, this should consist of a vigorous run or play session in a spacious securely fenced area on a daily basis. However, recognizing that not all owners have access to such an environment alternative options can still be pursued. These include bicycling while the English setter is leashed alongside, jogging together or embarking on long walks or hikes. It is important to note that puppies and young dogs may not have fully developed bone and joint strength until around two years of age, so it is wise to avoid overly strenuous or high-impact activities during this time. Despite being enthusiastic athletes while outdoors, English Setters often transform into tranquil companions once they have had their daily exercise and settle down in the comforting ambience of their home.

Training

	English Setters are characterized by their sensible nature, good-natured temperament, and unwavering loyalty as companions. These dogs possess a remarkable sensitivity and tend to take reprimands to heart, making positive reinforcement a more effective approach to their training than punishment. Due to their sharp olfactory senses and natural prey drive, they may occasionally succumb to their instincts, which can lead to troublesome situations. To mitigate this tendency, it is crucial to initiate training early on and maintain consistency throughout. As puppies, their curiosity knows no bounds, so it is vital to ensure that valuable or hazardous items are kept out of their reach. By providing them with the necessary attention, training and exercise, an English setter transforms into a wonderfully agreeable, manageable and enjoyable presence within the home.

Nutrition

	For English setter puppies, it is recommended to provide small frequent meals three times a day. As the dog reaches one year of age transitioning to feeding high-quality dog food twice a day is considered ideal. It is important to remain vigilant throughout the dog's life to prevent overeating and obesity, as English Setters are prone to these issues. Regular monitoring of the dog's diet is necessary to ensure they maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, it's noteworthy that English Setters have a penchant for "counter surfing," so it is crucial to avoid leaving tempting food items within their reach. Utilizing positive training techniques can effectively discourage this behavior. It is worth mentioning that an English Setter's keen sense of smell may lead them to food in unexpected places. Cases have been reported where they have ventured into the dishwasher in pursuit of a morsel left on a plate.

Historiography

The roots of English Setters can be traced back approximately 400 years. These remarkable dogs were initially bred on the estates of English country gentlemen who sought to create hunting companions capable of sitting patiently, or 'setting,' when they detected game birds. The English setter’s popularity flourished in Britain and eventually made its way to America particularly as advancements in hunting rifles led to the emergence of breeds commonly referred to as 'gundogs.' Through the intentional crossbreeding of old spaniel and pointer breeds, these esteemed canines were meticulously developed to serve their purpose in the hunting realm, thus solidifying their place in history.