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English Setter
Sporting

English Setter

Origin: United Kingdom

GentleFriendlyEnergeticAffectionateIndependent

Weight

45–80 lbs

Height

23–25 inches

Lifespan

10–12 years

Coat

Long, silky, flat coat with feathering on the legs, ears, and tail.

Personality & Temperament

The English Setter is a sweet-tempered, gentle, and affectionate companion known as the 'gentleman of the dog world.' They are high-energy dogs in the field but famously calm and couch-potato-like indoors when properly exercised.

Best For

Active outdoor enthusiasts or hunters with a house and secure yard who have time for daily exercise and grooming.

Exercise & Activity Needs

Requires vigorous daily exercise such as long jogs, runs, or free-running in a secure area to burn off their hunting stamina.

Grooming & Coat Care

Requires brushing several times a week to prevent tangles and mats in their silky feathering, along with regular feather trimming.

Coat type: Long, silky, flat coat with feathering on the legs, ears, and tail.

Common Health Conditions

The English Setter is generally a sturdy breed. Primary health concerns include Hip Dysplasia, Deafness, Hypothyroidism. Regular veterinary checkups, appropriate health screenings, and responsible breeding practices help minimize these risks.

Hip Dysplasia

A genetic malformation of the hip socket that can lead to arthritis and lameness.

Deafness

Congenital or acquired hearing loss, sometimes associated with specific piebald or roan color genetics.

Hypothyroidism

An endocrine disorder resulting in low thyroid hormone levels, causing weight gain and coat changes.

History & Origin

Developed in Great Britain by crossing large water spaniels, Spanish pointers, and springer spaniels to create a specialized bird-hunting dog that silently locates and points game.

Interesting Facts

  • 1

    Their distinctive ticked or speckled coat color is known as 'belton'.

  • 2

    They are exceptionally gentle with children, earning a reputation as wonderful family pets.

  • 3

    Despite their calm indoor demeanor, they possess immense stamina when working outdoors.

Cost of Ownership

Owning an English Setter is a long-term financial commitment. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to budget for.

Annual Cost

$1,000–$2,000

First Year (incl. setup)

$1,800–$3,500

Food$500–$800/yr

High-quality large breed dog food

Vet Care$400–$700/yr

Routine checkups, vaccinations, and preventative care

Grooming$200–$500/yr

Professional grooming and coat maintenance supplies

Supplies & Toys$150–$300/yr

Leashes, bedding, durable toys, and crates

* Estimates based on national averages. Costs vary by location, lifestyle, and individual health needs. Emergency vet visits are not included.

Plan daily life with your English Setter

Use the guides below to compare practical options alongside this breed's care needs.

Pet Tech Essentials

The right technology makes dog ownership easier, safer, and more connected — whether you're home or away. These are the products our editors consider must-haves for every dog owner.

Breed Traits

Best forfamilies with kids · active owners · multi-pet homes
Not idealapartment living · owners away long hours · low-maintenance lifestyles
Positive for ownersNeeds managementInformational
Energy Level
High
Trainability
Moderate
Apartment OK
Low
Kid-Friendly
Very High
Pet-Friendly
High
Affection Level
High
Grooming
High
Shedding
Moderate

Temperament

Barking
Moderate
Protective
Low
Sep. Anxiety
High
Stubbornness
Moderate
Noise Sensitive
Moderate

Climate & Physical

Heat Tolerance
Low
Cold Tolerance
High
Water Affinity
High
Drool Level
Very Low

Compatibility

Rural & Outdoor

Livestock Safe
Moderate
Off-Leash Reliable
High

Scores reflect breed tendencies. Individual training significantly affects both livestock safety and off-leash reliability.

Dog Friendly
Very High
Cat Friendly
Moderate
Prey Drive
High
!
Best for experienced owners

Health & Longevity

Health Score
Good (7/10)

Based on breed-specific genetic health risks and common conditions

Longevity
10–12 years
5 yrs20 yrs
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Consider Adopting

Many English Setters are waiting in shelters and breed-specific rescues. Adoption costs are typically $50–$300 vs. $500–$3,000 from a breeder.

Read our Rescue Guide →
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Download the English Setter Guide

Get a printable PDF with traits, cost of ownership, health notes, and best-fit summary — free.

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