Often called the Laverack Setter, this dog gets name from its breeder Sir Edward Laverack. The word ‘setter’ is used because the dog appears to be almost sitting down when they discover game. This breed is a foundation stock for many show dogs today.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: France
Used for: Hunting, tracking, pointing, retrieving, watchdog
Average Life Span: 10-12 years
Color: White and blue, lemon, orange or brown with markings
Coat: Flat, silky and wavy with medium-length hair
Average Height: 27-27 inches
Average Weight: 55-80 pounds
Group: Gun Dog
History and Domestication
The first set of setters was developed in 1500 in France from a French pointer and a Spanish pointer.
This early set was known as ‘Setting Spaniels’ because of the way they could crouch down after finding a prey to let the hunter to throw a net over it.
This breed was then brought to England in 1800s where a breeder known as Sir Edward Laverack developed them into what we now know as English setter with the help of French hunting dogs.
Standard Physical Characteristics
This is a long and lean working dog. When viewed from top, it has an oval skull with a long and square muzzle and a defined stop. The nose is either black or brown in color and has wide nostrils. The dark brown eyes are large and round. The ears hang down to eye level and are set back, covered with silky hair. The tail is thicker the base and tapers to the point.
Care, Grooming and Health
To keep this dog is excellent condition, regular brushing and combing of the soft, flat and medium-length coat is required. When the dog is shedding, burrs and tangles must be checked. Bathe or dry shampoo when required. This breed sheds moderately.
These dogs need to be taken on long daily walks where they are made to heel beside or after the person holding the lead. It is necessary to show the dog who is the pack leader. These dogs also love running free in a safe enclosed yard.
This breed is prone to hip dysplasia and mast cell tumors. The females are prone to false pregnancies. Also, do not overfeed or they will gain weight very easily.
Living Conditions
English Setters are not recommended for apartment life and will require an average-sized yard.
Temperament
A quick worker the English Setter is a gentle and calm dog. It has a coat that keeps in comfortable in both hot and cold weather. These dogs are friendly and excellent with children and love all the affection they can get. They are inactive indoors but exuberant and vivacious outdoors. They need calm, firm and authoritative owners or they can become willful. They do not respond well to harsh training and are very sensitive to the tone of the voice. They need a structured approach and love playing with other dogs. They also make good watchdogs and like to roam and dig. They are pretty good jumpers too.
Adoption Groups
- Southwest English Setters Rescue
- Another Chance for English Setters
- Above and Beyond English Setters Rescue