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Origin: United Kingdom
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.
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.
Requires vigorous daily exercise such as long jogs, runs, or free-running in a secure area to burn off their hunting stamina.
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.
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.
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.
Their distinctive ticked or speckled coat color is known as 'belton'.
They are exceptionally gentle with children, earning a reputation as wonderful family pets.
Despite their calm indoor demeanor, they possess immense stamina when working outdoors.
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
High-quality large breed dog food
Routine checkups, vaccinations, and preventative care
Professional grooming and coat maintenance supplies
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.
Use the guides below to compare practical options alongside this breed's care needs.
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Temperament
Climate & Physical
Compatibility
Rural & Outdoor
Scores reflect breed tendencies. Individual training significantly affects both livestock safety and off-leash reliability.
Based on breed-specific genetic health risks and common conditions
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 →Get a printable PDF with traits, cost of ownership, health notes, and best-fit summary — free.