Gundog Group
English Setter
The English Setter is one of the most beautiful of all gundog breeds β a graceful, elegant bird dog with a flowing, silky coat decorated with distinct…
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Size
Large
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Coat
Long, Silky
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Energy
High
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Groom Every
6β8 weeks
Character
What is the English Setter like?
The English Setter is one of the most beautiful of all gundog breeds β a graceful, elegant bird dog with a flowing, silky coat decorated with distinctive flecks of colour called belton markings. Developed over centuries in England as a bird dog, the Setter uses a characteristic crouching pose β setting β when locating game. English Setters are gentle, affectionate, and sociable β their character is often described as sweet and mellow. They are less driven than many working gundogs, making them more manageable as family pets, while still possessing the stamina and nose of a true bird dog.
Social Skills
English Setter with Other Dogs
English Setters are typically gentle, sociable, and friendly with other dogs and people. They are wonderful with children β patient, gentle, and playful. They are welcoming of visitors and make poor guard dogs. Their pack-oriented gundog heritage means they generally get along well with other dogs. Early socialisation develops appropriate confidence. They do not cope well with long periods of isolation.
Grooming Guide
How to Groom a English Setter
The English Setter’s long, silky coat with distinctive feathering requires brushing three to four times per week to prevent tangles. Professional grooming every six to eight weeks for a thorough bath, blow dry, scissor trim, nail clip, and ear clean maintains coat health. Their long ears are prone to infection and must be checked and cleaned weekly. The feathering on their legs, belly, and tail picks up debris after walks.
Free & Personalised
Get a personalised groom plan for your English Setter
Tell us about your dog and our AI builds a grooming plan β including personalised Magnesium treatment recommendations.
Pros
- βBeautiful, elegant appearance
- βGentle, mellow temperament
- βGood with children and other dogs
- βTrainable and biddable
- βEnergetic outdoor companion
- βGenerally healthy constitution
Cons
- !High exercise requirements
- !Coat requires significant regular grooming
- !Ears very prone to infection
- !Strong nose β unreliable recall
- !Can be slow to mature
- !Not suited to inactive households