The English Setter

English Setter

Country of Origin: Great Britain

History: The English setter is at least four hundred years old. The breed is descended from various spaniels and possibly the English pointer. They are bred to find and point game in an open country. Dogs have been developed along two lines: one for show and one for work, with the show dog being larger and heavier than the field dog.

Physical Description: The English setter is a large, muscular dog with medium length drop ears, a black or dark brown nose, and dark brown eyes. There is a long, lean head and long tail that is straight and tapers to a fine point. The long, straight coat has feathering on the legs, ears, chest, belly and tail. The color can be orange belton, blue belton, tricolor, lemon belton, and liver belton. Belton is characterized by light or dark ticking or roaning. The show dog is about 25 percent larger than the field dog, has a squarer muzzle, and carries the tail lower.

Height: 24 to 25 inches (show)

Weight: 50 to 70 pounds (show)

Temperament: Although both types are good natured, mild and friendly dogs, the field type is more active. Both love the outdoors and get along well with most everyone, including children. The field type is especially well suited to hunting.

Activity Level: High

Best Owner: The English setter does best with an active owner in a rural or suburban environment.

Special Needs: Attention, exercise, fenced yard, grooming, leashed

Possible Health Concerns: Allergies, deafness, hip and elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism