English Setter


The English Setter: Graceful Gundog

English Setter

The English Setter is one of the oldest gundog breeds, and is believed to have been developed over 400 years ago. Originally from Spaniel stock, the breed was formerly known as the Setting Spaniel, because of the position it adopted on finding a bird.

Although similar to the Irish and Gordon Setters, the English Setter is a distinct breed, with a unique temperament and appearance. Their beautiful feathered coat has marking referred to as a “belton”, white with an intermingling of darker hairs. Belton markings may be orange, blue (white with black markings), tricolor (blue belton with tan points), lemon or liver.

These graceful, elegant gundogs excel in the show ring, and in obedience and agility competitions, as well as in the field.

If you’re thinking of getting an English Setter you’ll be getting a gentle, devoted family dog who loves being with people. Setters are athletic and energetic dogs, so they require vigorous daily exercise. Their beautiful coat is high maintenance requiring regular brushing and clipping.

ENGLISH SETTER FACT FILE

Group: Sporting
Country of origin: England
Date of origin: 1300′s
Originally bred for: Bird hunting
Current function: Companion
Size: Large
Coat length: Medium
Shedding: Yes
Grooming requirements: At least once a week
Town or Country: Either
Ideal home: Large house
Minimum garden size: Large
Exercise requirements: At least 2 hours per day
Lifespan: Over 10 years

If you enjoyed this page on the English Setter, check out some of the other dog breed links below.

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