INTRODUCTION

The English Setter breed of dog got its name from the practice of these dogs “laying down”, or crouching, when they found birds so that hunters could cast their nets over them. After the development of the shotgun, breeders developed the dog to remain in the more traditional Pointer style, English Setters are still used as hunting dogs today, as well as family companions. This super affectionate dog adores his human family and even other household pets, but flat dwellers should beware. These puppies have high energy and exercise needs, so they will prefer a home with a yard and room to run.AniMall24 recommends a dog bed to give your medium-sized English Setter a good night’s sleep. You should also buy a dog brush and massager for your long haired puppy.

HIGHLIGHTS

English Setters can become nuisance barkers, so discourage this habit when they are young.English Setters gain weight easily, so measure their food and cut back a little if they seem to be getting fat.A fenced yard is essential; English Setters cannot be trusted to stay in a yard without fencing. English Setters have a great ability to dig and jump, so make sure they have a secure fence.They can be difficult to potty train, so start early and be consistent.To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill or pet shop. Look for a reputable breeder who tests their breeding dogs to make sure they are free of genetic diseases that can be passed on to puppies and that they have a sound temperament.

HISTORY

Setters as a type of hunting dog were known in England for 400 years. They were probably a cross between various types of hunting dogs, including pointers and spaniels. The modern English Setter was developed in the 19th century by the Englishman Edward Laverack and the Welshman R.L. Purcell Llewellin.Laverack bought his first two dogs, Ponto and Old Moll, from the Reverend A. Harrison in 1825, and they became the basis of the breed. Laverack concentrated on developing a Setter that was gentle and companionable. He probably added the Pointer and Irish Setter to his lines and produced dogs that performed well in the show ring but poorly in field trials.Llewellin started with Laverack type dogs but worked to improve their performance in the field. He crossed them with Gordon Setters and other breeds to improve their scenting ability and speed. Both types of English Setters came to America in the late 1800s. The Laverack line became the basis for today’s show setters and the Llewellin line for field dogs.Today’s setters have a unique appearance, with their sculpted heads, athletic bodies and long feathered tails. Setters tend to be slightly larger than field dogs. They have a more luxurious coat and differ slightly in coat pattern. Colour patches are often seen on English Field Setters, but are not desirable for show dogs. Of course, they make no difference if your English Setter is a family companion. Show dogs are capable of hunting, but field dogs tend to have a keener nose and greater speed.English Setters are rare, ranking 98th among breeds registered by the American Kennel Club, so if you would like to share your life with one of these cheerful, lively dogs, be prepared to spend some time on a waiting list before a puppy becomes available.