The Bench English Setter is a versatile hunting companion that excels in a variety of roles, from flushing game to tracking and retrieving.
This breed is known for its intelligence, athleticism, and strong prey drive, making it an excellent choice for active hunters who value a loyal and hardworking companion.
English Setters are a relatively small breed, typically weighing between 45-70 pounds and standing between 23-27 inches tall at the shoulder, making them a great fit for hunters who prefer a more agile and manageable hunting partner.
Their short, smooth coats come in a variety of colors, including chestnut, blue roan, and liver roan, each with their own unique characteristics and requirements for grooming and maintenance.
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English Setter Care
English Setters have a beautiful, yet high-maintenance coat. They require regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats, and daily brushing is necessary for show competitors, but once a week is fine for everyday pet owners.
English Setters are moderate shedders, but regular brushing helps keep their coat in good condition. You may need to trim some areas of their feathered coat or around the ears.
To keep your English Setter's coat looking its best, make sure to brush their teeth regularly, at least a few times a week, to prevent teeth and gum problems. Regular nail trimming and ear cleaning are also essential to prevent infection and dirt buildup.
A weekly brush out is necessary to keep your English Setter's coat in good condition. Here's a breakdown of their grooming needs:
Care
English setters have a beautiful, yet high-maintenance coat that requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats.
You'll want to brush your English setter's long, feathery hair daily if you're showing them, but once a week is fine for everyday owners.
Regular brushing is vital to prevent that long hair from getting tangled or matted, and to keep it free of leaves, pine needles, and small sticks from outside.
Baths are necessary at least once a month, and you might want to keep that longer hair trimmed to make maintenance easier.
English setters don't shed as much as many other dogs, but you'll still need to vacuum regularly - Jacobson recommends once or twice a week.
Their soft, floppy ears will need attention too, so clean them out every week to prevent any issues.
Trimming your English setter's nails and brushing their teeth regularly is also essential to keep them healthy and happy.
Starting grooming early, when your English setter is still a puppy, will make the process faster and easier for everyone over their lifespan.
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Training
Training your English Setter requires a gentle and patient approach. They are eager to please and respond well to reward-based training methods.
One key thing to keep in mind is that English Setters are sensitive to harsh treatment, so it's best to avoid withdrawing attention or yelling loudly at them. This can cause distress and undermine the training process.
If your English Setter has a high prey drive, you may need to work extra hard to achieve a rock-solid recall, especially in areas where there's temptation to "hunt." This means keeping them on a leash or finding ways to distract them from potential prey.
English Setters are naturally alert to strangers, so it's a good idea to work on rewarding quiet behavior to prevent alert barking from getting out of control. This can help prevent unwanted noise and keep your neighbors happy.
Information
English Setters are a high-energy breed that requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They need at least an hour of exercise per day, which can be a combination of walks, runs, and playtime.
Their thick coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Brush their coats at least twice a week to keep them looking their best.
English Setters are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia and eye problems. Regular veterinary check-ups can help catch these issues early on.
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Their strong hunting instincts can make them prone to wandering off if they catch a scent. Keep them on a leash or in a securely fenced area to prevent this.
English Setters are highly social dogs that thrive on interaction with their human family. They make great companions for active families or hunters.
English Setter Benefits
English Setters make wonderful family pets due to their gentle and affectionate nature.
Their high affection level means they love spending time with their human family members, both children and adults alike.
In fact, they're often described as having a "friendly and mellow demeanor" that makes them a great addition to any household.
If you're thinking of bringing an English Setter into your home, be prepared for a lot of love and attention - they're extremely affectionate!
Here are some key benefits of owning an English Setter:
Overall, English Setters are a great choice for anyone looking for a loyal and loving companion.
North America
The North American region is home to a thriving community of Bench English Setter enthusiasts.
In the United States, the Bench English Setter is recognized as a distinct breed by the American Kennel Club.
These dogs excel in conformation, with their sturdy build and athletic ability making them well-suited for hunting and other outdoor activities.
Their short, dense coats require minimal grooming, a plus for busy owners.
The breed's intelligence and trainability make them a popular choice for hunting and working roles.
In Canada, the Bench English Setter is also recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club, with a strong following among hunters and dog enthusiasts.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a bench setter and a field setter?
English Setters come in two varieties: field setters (Lewellin) and bench setters (Laverack), with field setters typically smaller and having less feathering. Field setters also have more distinctive spotting patterns than bench setters.
What is the calmest setter breed?
The English Setter is known for being one of the calmest breeds, making them a great choice for families and first-time dog owners.
Sources
- Edward Laverack (akc.org)
- Our English Setter Rescue (oesr.org)
- How English is the English Setter? (projectupland.com)
- English Setter breed standard (akc.org)
- AKC Breeder Referral Contacts page (akc.org)
- AKC Breeds (akc.org)
- English Setter Dog Breed Information and Pictures (dogbreedinfo.com)
- The English Setter Association of America (esaa.com)
- EvrSett English Setters (evrsett.com)
- breeder (bjsetters.com)
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