LargeGreat Britain (England)

English Setter

"The English Setter embodies elegance and gentleness. A passionate gundog that transforms into a cuddly family companion at home while unleashing its graceful energy outdoors."

Your Height:

180 cm

Shoulder Height: 67 cm

Age11-15 years

Average life expectancy with species-appropriate husbandry and good health.

Height

Shoulder Height: 64-69cmHead Height: ~85cm (est.)

The standard size measured from the ground to the highest point of the shoulder (withers).

Weight29-36 kg

Ideal body weight for a healthy, adult breed.

Cost/Month€90+

The sum of food, insurance, and basic care per month.

Character Profile

Activity Level

A measure of the daily urge to move and the necessary mental stimulation.

A highly athletic hunting dog that requires significant daily exercise (at least 2 hours) and mental stimulation.

Trainability

The willingness of the breed to cooperate with humans and learn commands quickly.

Highly intelligent and eager to please, but sensitive to harsh corrections; responds best to gentle, positive reinforcement.

Family Friendliness

Describes patience and adaptability when dealing with children and family bustle.

Known as the 'gentleman of the dog world'; extremely gentle, affectionate, and exceptionally patient with children.

Sociability

Behavior towards strangers and other dogs/pets.

Generally very sociable with other dogs and friendly toward strangers; rarely shows aggression.

Beginner Friendly

Indicates how well the breed is suited for first-time owners without much experience.

High exercise requirements and a strong hunting instinct can be challenging for first-time owners without experience.

Apartment Friendly

Considers barking behavior, space requirements, and the general need for rest indoors.

Calm indoors but needs plenty of space and ideally a yard due to its high energy and size.

Grooming Effort

Time required for brushing, bathing, and nail care. Long-haired breeds often need daily care.

The long, silky coat requires regular brushing; occasional trimming of the ears and paws is also necessary.

Shedding

How much loose hair the breed loses in the house. Important for allergy sufferers and cleaning effort.

Sheds moderately to regularly; the long hair can easily become tangled or matted without consistent care.

Did you know?

Keeping a pet of this size costs over 80€ per month on average. Plan your finances wisely.

Character & Training

The English Setter is renowned for its gentle and friendly nature, making it an exceptional family companion. While highly intelligent, they possess an independent streak and a strong hunting instinct. Training requires patience and positive reinforcement, as they are sensitive to harsh corrections. Their social temperament ensures they get along well with children and other dogs. Balancing firm guidance with affection is key to managing their occasional stubbornness when following an interesting scent in the field.

Living & Exercise

Living in a cramped city apartment is rarely suitable for this active breed. The English Setter thrives on extensive exercise and mental stimulation, preferably in rural settings with a large, fenced yard. They excel in long hikes and retrieving games that challenge their stamina. Once their energy is spent, they are remarkably calm indoors, constantly seeking human companionship. Providing consistent physical and mental outlets ensures a balanced, happy dog that fits perfectly into an active lifestyle.

Health & Grooming

Their silky, flowing coat requires consistent grooming to prevent matting, especially after outdoor adventures. While generally robust, the breed can be prone to hip dysplasia or congenital deafness. Due to their pendant ears, regular cleaning is essential to prevent infections. A balanced diet and routine veterinary check-ups are crucial for their longevity. Grooming sessions should be viewed as bonding time, establishing a positive routine from puppyhood to maintain their striking appearance and overall well-being.

History

The English Setter’s origins trace back to 19th-century England, where Edward Laverack refined the breed. Developed as a gundog for locating game birds, their name derives from the "setting" posture they adopt when finding prey. Today, the breed excels as a versatile companion, balancing its historical hunting prowess with a role as an elegant show dog and beloved, gentle family member.

Similar Breeds

Based on character, activity level, and grooming needs – not by appearance.