AKC English Setter: A Comprehensive Guide

The AKC English Setter is a versatile and athletic breed that excels in hunting and family life. They have a rich history dating back to the 17th century.

Their distinctive appearance includes a short, dense coat in a variety of colors, including liver and white, lemon and white, and orange and white.

These dogs are known for their intelligence, energy, and affectionate nature. They thrive on mental and physical stimulation, making them a great fit for active families.

Their calm and gentle demeanor makes them a great choice for households with children.

The English Setter is a breed that's known for its elegant appearance, and it's not hard to see why. They have a long and lean head with an oval-shaped skull, and their ears are set well back and low, even with or below the eye level.

Their coat is one of their most distinctive features, with a medium-length coat that lies flat against the body and silky hair that hangs loosely to create a fringe on their tails. The feathering on their ears, chest, abdomen, underside of the thighs, backs of all legs, and tail is a key part of their overall appearance.

English Setters typically stand between 23 to 25 inches in height for females and 25 to 27 inches in height for males, with males weighing around 65 to 80 pounds and females weighing between 45 to 55 pounds.

The English Setter is a medium to large breed, with adult males standing between 25 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.

Adult females typically range from 23 to 25 inches in height.

Males weigh approximately 65 to 80 pounds, making them a sturdy companion for outdoor activities.

Females tend to weigh between 45 to 55 pounds, requiring slightly less food and exercise than their male counterparts.

Their medium to large frame presents a harmonious balance of strength and elegance, allowing them to work tirelessly across varying terrain.

This build suggests the capacity for great strength and stamina, making them well-suited for active families or individuals.

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The English Setter's coat is truly one of its most distinctive features. It's long, silky, and flat, with no curl or wooliness to it.

The coat is white with patches and a unique speckling called belton, which comes in various colors. These include orange, blue (black with white), lemon, liver, or tricolor (blue belton with some tan).

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The English Setter's coat texture is silky to the touch, with feathering on the ears, chest, abdomen, underside of the thighs, backs of all legs, and on the tail. The feathering shouldn't be so excessive as to hide the dog's silhouette or its movement.

Here are the standard colors of the English Setter, along with their corresponding codes:

The English Setter's coat is a beautiful and distinctive feature, and it's a big part of what makes this breed so lovely.

The English Setter is a wonderful breed to have around children, with a mellow temperament and loving nature that makes them a great fit for families.

They're also very devoted to their families, loving to be involved in family activities and being happiest when they're surrounded by their people.

English Setters are sensitive, playful, and get along very well with dogs and other pets, making them a great addition to multi-pet households.

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However, they can be prone to barking, especially when they sense someone approaching the house or yard.

As a breed bred for hunting, English Setters may wander off in search of wildlife if left unconfined, so it's essential to keep them in a fenced yard or on a leash when outside.

English Setters are often described as "gentleman by nature", with a temperament that's both calm and friendly.

Their gentle nature makes them a welcoming choice for novice dog owners, who can benefit from their even-tempered and responsive personality.

Positive reinforcement training is key for English Setters, as they respond best to kind words and gentle touches.

While they're sociable and affectionate, English Setters do prefer to be in the company of their human family or other pets rather than being left alone for extended periods.

Isolation can sometimes lead to unwanted behaviors or signs of anxiety, so it's essential to provide them with plenty of attention and interaction.

English Setters are typically friendly with other dogs, and many relish playtime with their canine counterparts.

They're also patient and loving with children, making them a great choice for families with kids.

Strangers will often find a warm reception from an English Setter, who may initially bark to signal their approach but then become amicable and sociable after a brief introduction.

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The English Setter has a rich history that spans centuries, with its origins dating back to the 14th century. This breed was developed to help hunters track and locate game on the moors, and got its name from its perfectly still sitting position, or "set", around prey.

The breed's exact ancestry isn't known, but it's thought to have resulted from the crossing of pointing and spaniel breeds. This mix of bloodlines helped create a dog that's both gentle and athletic, with a glossy coat and unique markings.

The English Setter earned recognition from the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1878, and has since become one of the most beloved breeds in the world. Today, the breed is recognized by kennel organizations worldwide, including the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and The Royal Kennel Club in the UK.

Here are the breed standards recognized by major kennel organizations:

The English Setter has a rich history that spans over several centuries. The breed is considered one of the oldest of the gun dog breeds, with artworks featuring dogs resembling the modern-day English Setter dating back to the 15th century.

Developed to help hunters track and locate game on the moors, English Setters were initially called setting spaniels and would freeze and crouch down when they found their quarry. They were later used with nets to trap birds, but the gun replaced these during the 18th century.

The breed's exact ancestry isn't known, but it's thought to have resulted from the crossing of pointing and spaniel breeds. English Setters are known for being more gentle and slightly smaller than the Irish Setter or Gordon Setter.

Edward Laverack began breeding English Setters in earnest in the 19th century, and they were often crossed with dogs belonging to R. Purcell Llewellin. The Laverack line became known as the show-type, and the Llewellin line was developed for their field qualities.

The breed's name gives a nod to its original function and behavior while working in the field. When the dog detects a game bird, it "sets" or crouches low, indicating the bird's position to the hunter. This behavior distinguished these dogs from other bird dogs and gave rise to the setter's distinctive name.

The English Setter earned official recognition in the mid-19th century, and the breed holds a special distinction in the United States as one of nine original "charter breeds" recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1878.

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The English Setter is a breed with a rich history, and its standards are recognized worldwide. The breed is categorized into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics, with the leading registries and kennel organizations designating it under the following Groups.

The American Kennel Club, United Kennel Club, Canadian Kennel Club, Australian National Kennel Council, The Royal Kennel Club, and Fédération Cynologique Internationale all have their own breed standards for the English Setter. These organizations have their own set of guidelines that define the breed's characteristics, including its height, weight, coat, and temperament.

Here are the breed standards for the English Setter from some of the world's leading kennel organizations:

These breed standards are essential for breeders, owners, and enthusiasts to ensure that the English Setter remains a healthy and thriving breed. By following these standards, we can preserve the breed's unique characteristics and ensure its continued success.

Dr. Jill Warren is the breeder of Esthete English Setters.

She is known for her kennel, where the beginnings of the breed can be traced back to.

The dogs bred by Dr. Warren are a testament to her dedication to the English Setter breed.

English Setters require regular grooming to keep their beautiful, flowing coats looking their best and to maintain their health. They need to be brushed a few times a week, and a long-toothed metal comb works well to prevent tangles and mats.

Their coats can range from flat to slightly wavy and are of medium length, so regular combing and brushing will help to prevent tangles and matting while also distributing the natural oils of the skin. This routine not only ensures that the coat remains silky and lustrous, it also offers a chance to check for any skin issues, ticks, or other potential problems.

English Setters shed year-round, with some increased shedding typically seen in the spring and fall, so regular brushing aids in managing and reducing the amount of loose hair around the house. They also benefit from regular ear cleaning, as their floppy ears can be prone to infections if not kept clean and dry.

Here are the grooming requirements for English Setters:

Adult English Setters come in a range of weights, with males typically weighing between 65 to 80 pounds.

Males are generally heavier than females, who tend to weigh between 45 to 55 pounds.

It's essential to keep in mind that these weights are approximate and can vary depending on individual factors.

Regular exercise and a balanced diet are crucial to maintaining a healthy weight in English Setters.

By understanding their weight range, you can better care for your furry friend and ensure they stay happy and healthy.

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Grooming is an essential part of caring for an English Setter. Regular brushing is a must to prevent tangles and mats in their beautiful, silky coats.

A long-toothed metal comb works well to prevent tangles and mats, especially in their feathered features. Brush your English Setter a few times a week to keep their coat looking its best.

Trim the hair around their face and feet regularly to keep them looking tidy. Nails that are too long can cause pain or difficulty walking, so trim them regularly.

Dental care is crucial for an English Setter's long-term health. Brush their teeth at least a few times a week, and consider providing dental treats or toys to help keep their teeth clean.

English Setters are moderate shedders, so regular brushing can help manage and reduce the amount of loose hair around the house. A weekly brush out is a good idea to keep their coat in good condition.

Here are the grooming requirements for an English Setter:

Regular ear cleaning is also essential for English Setters, as their floppy ears can be prone to infections if not kept clean and dry. Check their ears weekly and clean them as needed to prevent potential issues.

English Setter puppies require a combination of proper nutrition, early socialization, consistent training, and regular health check-ups to grow into confident and sociable adults. A diet rich in essential nutrients supports the pup's rapid growth and ensures it matures into a strong and healthy adult.

Nutrition plays a pivotal role in the healthy development of the puppy. It's advisable to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best food and feeding schedule tailored to the specific needs of the puppy.

Regular socialization is essential, introducing the puppy to a variety of experiences, environments, people, and other animals during their early months helps them grow into confident and sociable adults. Positive experiences during this critical period can prevent the development of unnecessary fears or aggressive behaviors later in life.

English Setter puppies, like all young dogs, can be playful and a bit mischievous, so consistent training from a young age is vital. Establishing boundaries, teaching basic commands, and reinforcing positive behaviors will set the stage for a well-behaved adult dog.

Regular vet check-ups and vaccinations are essential to monitor the puppy's health and protect them from various infectious diseases. Following a recommended vaccination and deworming schedule will ensure the puppy stays healthy and gets a great start in life.

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Dogs shed, and it's a natural process. English Setters, for example, shed their silky, medium-length coat regularly.

Regular shedding can be a challenge, but it's essential to keep your dog's coat healthy. Brushing and combing several times a week can help minimize loose hairs.

Some dogs shed more than others, but all dogs shed to some extent. Regular grooming can make a big difference in keeping your dog's coat looking its best.

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English Setters are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health anomalies. They typically have a lifespan of 12 years, and regular check-ups with a veterinarian and a balanced diet can promote a healthier, and potentially longer, life.

To ensure your English Setter meets their nutritional needs, feed them a high-quality food that's appropriate for their life stage, such as puppy, adult, or senior. English Setters can be eager eaters, so it's essential to carefully measure their meals and account for treats and snacks to prevent weight gain.

As a guideline, treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calories, and feeding them a specific diet may be necessary if they have food-related allergies. English Setters can sometimes be prone to obesity, especially if they aren't getting enough exercise, so it's crucial to monitor their weight and make adjustments as necessary.

English Setters require a high-quality food that's appropriate for their life stage, whether it's puppy, adult, or senior. Feeding them a balanced diet is crucial for their overall health and well-being.

To prevent weight gain, it's essential to carefully measure their meals and account for treats and snacks. Treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily calories.

An adult English Setter might eat a total of 2 to 3 cups of food daily, divided into at least two meals. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian and feeding a balanced diet can promote a healthier, and potentially longer, life.

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English Setters can be prone to developing allergies, especially food-related ones. If your dog has allergies, you may need to feed them a specific diet to prevent a reaction.

Feeding an English Setter puppy requires high-quality puppy food rich in essential nutrients to support rapid growth. Puppy food formulas typically have the right balance of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

As English Setters transition to adulthood, their dietary needs change, and they typically require a well-balanced diet that includes protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

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English Setters are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian and feeding a balanced diet can promote a healthier, and potentially longer, life.

Their average lifespan is 12 years. This is a great age, but it's essential to be aware of potential health problems that can arise.

Hip and elbow dysplasia are two common genetic health conditions that can cause mobility issues and pain. In severe cases, surgery may be required to improve your dog's quality of life.

Hypothyroidism is another condition that affects English Setters. It's an underactive thyroid, which can lead to a variety of symptoms, including weight gain, lethargy, and problems with the skin and coat. It can't be cured, but with the right treatment, it can be managed successfully.

Allergies are also more common in English Setters than in some breeds. Environmental and food allergies can cause itchy skin, and a careful process of elimination will be required to try to establish the underlying cause.

Some English Setters can be born deaf in one or both ears. Deaf dogs can live full and enriching lives with a few simple adjustments to make things easier and safer for them around the home and when out on walks.

Here are some potential health risks to be aware of: