English Setter

English Setter

This is a good-natured breed whose elegance and hunting prowess typifies the English country scene.

History:

The English Setter comes from an ancient line of sporting dogs, with its origins most probably from the Spaniel and the Old Spanish Pointer. Similar looking dogs were known prior to the 1800s. The English Setter as we know it today was developed in the mid-1800s by a British breeder, Sir Edward Laverack, who bred from a pair and inbred them until he achieved the type he wanted. Further breeding by Sir Purcell Llewellin established the breed in the USA and, although going by different names, the Laverack Setter and the Llewellin Setter, they are essentially the same breed, with one for hunting and the other for show. The first showing of the breed was in 1859 in Newcastle-apon-Tyne.

Physical characteristics:

An elegant, medium-sized dog. Height: 25 - 27 in (63.5 - 68.6 cm) for the dog and 24 - 25 in (61 to 63.5 cm) for the bitch. Weight: 59 - 66 lb (27 - 30 kg) for the dog and 55 - 62 lb (25 - 28 kg) for the bitch.

The head is long and lean, with an oval skull, well-defined occiput, and pronounced stop. The muzzle is square, equal in length to the skull length. The nose is black or liver, depending on the coat color, and has wide nostrils. The jaws are of equal length. The eyes are oval, hazel or dark brown, with an intelligent and gentle gaze. The ears are set low, of moderate length, and hang in folds next to the cheek. The body of the English Setter is of moderate length, with a short level back with well-sprung ribs. The tail is set almost in line with the back, of medium length, and slightly curved with a feathering coat.

The forequarters are muscular and solid, with rounded bones. The hindquarters have long thighs, wide loins, are slightly arched, and are strong and muscular. The coat of the English Setter is long, silky and flat, with a slight wave from the back of the head. The thighs are well-feathered. The coat color is black and white, lemon or orange and white, liver and white, or tricolored black, white and tan.

Behavior:

This large handsome dog is very gentle, and makes a wonderful family dog. Underneath that calm exterior there lies a dog with boundless energy and a willingness to please. The English Setter, learns very quickly and waits poised for your command. It is wise to be firm with the English Setter but on no account must you be overbearing, as the dog will then become unsure of itself.

The English Setter is very good with children and tends to walk away when it has had enough, rather than snapping. This dog makes an excellent watch-dog, as it has a deep bark. However, its gentle nature and willingness to please make it unsuitable as a guard dog. The English Setter requires a lot of exercise to maintain it in top condition. Either it must be walked on a daily basis or it should be part of an active family. Its ears should be checked regularly and debris removed from its coat.