English Setter
The gentleman of the moors — feathered grace with the softest heart in the field.
Vital stats
| Size | Large · 56–68 cm |
| Weight | 20–36 kg |
| Life expectancy | 11–12 years |
| Energy | High — 60–120 min/day |
| Shedding | Moderate, year-round |
| Coat | Long, silky, feathered · belton flecking in blue, orange, lemon or liver |
| Group | Sporting · FCI №2 / AKC |
Breed traits
Friendliness
Care
Mind
Temperament
Bred to sweep the moors for hours and then crouch — 'set' — the instant it found birds, the English Setter pairs real stamina with a famously mild nature. At home that translates to a soft-eyed companion that wilts under harsh words and blooms with kind ones. Expect merriment outdoors and melting affection on the sofa.
Habits & quirks
The lean
A setter shows love with its whole bodyweight, usually against your legs.
Moor mode
In open country the elegant houseguest becomes a ground-eating athlete, nose into the wind.
Bed connoisseur
Sofas, duvets, your pillow — the breed has firm opinions about soft furnishings.
Selective hearing
Mid-sniff, recall becomes a suggestion; patience and treats work better than volume.
Care
| Exercise | An hour or two daily, ideally with free running — a setter that only walks on lead is a setter half-lived. |
| Grooming | Brush the feathering two or three times a week and check ears after every romp; burrs adore this coat. |
| Training | Gentle, consistent and reward-based — this sensitive breed shuts down under heavy-handed methods. |
| Health | Ask breeders about hearing tests (congenital deafness occurs), plus hip and elbow scores. |
Common questions
Are English Setters good family dogs?
Among the best of the sporting breeds — patient, playful and gentle with children. They do need real daily exercise and dislike being left alone for long stretches.
Do English Setters shed a lot?
Moderately, year-round, and the silky feathering tangles if neglected. A few brushing sessions a week keeps both coat and carpets under control.
What's the difference between show and field English Setters?
Show lines are bigger, calmer and more heavily feathered; field (Llewellin-type) lines are smaller, lighter-coated and considerably more driven. Choose the type that matches your energy.