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The English Setter dog show has a rich history of showcasing the breed's impressive hunting skills and stunning good looks. In the show ring, English Setters have consistently impressed judges with their intelligence, athleticism, and elegant coats.
One notable achievement is the breed's recognition by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1884. This marked a significant milestone in the breed's popularity and paved the way for its widespread recognition today.
English Setters have also excelled in agility and obedience competitions, demonstrating their intelligence and trainability. Their strong prey drive and natural instinct to follow game make them well-suited to hunting and retrieving.
In the show ring, English Setters have won numerous Best in Show titles, solidifying their status as a top breed.
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Setter Grooming and Preparation
Grooming your English Setter is a crucial part of dog show preparation.
The course "An Introduction to Setter Grooming" teaches the basics of trimming all four setter breeds, including the English Setter.
Knowing the subtle differences between the English, Gordon, Irish, and Irish Red & White Setters is essential for grooming.
Travis, a 9-year-old English Setter, learned that regular brushing and combing can prevent mats in the coat.
Lying down in the grass can lead to mats if you don't keep on top of the grooming, especially on damp or muddy days.
The setter's furnishings should be an extension of their bone structure, and trimming should aim to create an anatomically correct version of your setter.
Understanding why we trim hair off in different ways is just as important as learning how to do it.
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Setter History and Achievements
The English Setter has a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. They were originally bred for hunting small game.
Their name "Setter" comes from their instinct to "set" or freeze in place when they catch a scent, allowing the hunter to flush out the game.
The English Setter's popularity grew in the 19th century, with Queen Victoria being a notable fan.
Belle, the Setter Makes History
Belle, an English setter from Pine Island, made Westminster show history by becoming the first-ever female of her breed to win the best Sporting Group category.
She won the honor in 146 years of Westminster shows, beating out 3,088 dogs from 211 breeds.
Belle's owners, Van Jacobsen and Lee Afdahl, were thrilled by her victory, which they knew was a long shot.
She had already won best of show in multiple state, regional, and national shows, but this was a particularly impressive achievement.
Belle's handler, Amanda Ciaravino, knew she had something special, citing her physical attributes as exemplary of her breed.
This made her movements smooth and efficient, a key factor in her success.
Belle's win was met with excitement from other English setter owners and breeders, who were proud of what she had accomplished for the breed.
The win also brought tears to the eyes of Belle's owners and handler, who were still moved by the memory of her victory five days later.
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Crufts 2020 Veteran Dog Report
At Crufts 2020, the Veteran Dog class was a highlight, with several English Setters showcasing their age and experience. Travis, a 9-year-old English Setter, won the Veteran Dog class and went on to win Best Veteran in Breed.
The grooming process for Travis was a few months of hard work, involving regular use of the Dirty Beastie, conditioner, and a steel comb to prepare his coat for the show. This dedication paid off, as he looked absolutely superb in the show ring.
Travis's owner noted that at 9 years old, he isn't as energetic as he used to be, but he still likes to lie down in the grass, which can lead to mats in his coat if not brushed and combed regularly. Regular grooming is essential to prevent this.
Here are the results of the Veteran Dog class at Crufts 2020:
The judge, Mrs C Guy, was impressed with the winner's beautiful balance, flow, and silky coat. She also praised his lovely head, kind gentle eye, and excellent movement.
Crufts 2020 Setters
English Setters had a fantastic show at Crufts 2020, with several dogs impressing the judges.
Travis, a veteran English Setter, won the Veteran Dog class and Best Veteran in Breed, just like in 2018. He was prepared for the show with a routine of hard work, using the Dirty Beastie, conditioner, and a steel comb.
The judges were particularly impressed with Travis's silky coat, which was excellently presented. This is a great reminder of the importance of regular grooming for English Setters.
Goutorbe's SH CH DYRHAM DIVERSITY AT REDHARA JW was another standout, winning the Veteran Dog class and being considered for the Res CC. He had a beautiful silky coat, lovely head, and kind gentle eye.
Here are some key characteristics that impressed the judges:
- Beautiful balance and flow of one part into the next
- Long and well-laid-back shoulders
- Excellent quarters with good width and well-turned stifle
- Strong rear pasterns and a gently wagging tail
Travis's victory was a testament to the dedication of his owner, who worked hard to prepare him for the show.
Setter Events and Participation
Setter dog shows are a great way to meet other enthusiasts and learn about the breed.
The English Setter dog show is a premier event for showcasing the breed's unique characteristics and hunting abilities.
English Setters are known for their intelligence and athleticism, making them a popular choice for hunting and family pets alike.
In a typical dog show, English Setters compete in various categories, including conformation, agility, and obedience.
Conformation events evaluate a dog's physical structure and movement, while agility events test their speed and agility.
Obedience events assess a dog's ability to follow commands and work with its handler.
The English Setter's strong prey drive and energetic nature make them well-suited for high-energy activities like agility and hunting.
English Setters have been a popular breed for hunting since the 16th century, and their skills in the field are still highly valued today.
Setters can participate in various hunting events, including upland game bird hunting and retriever competitions.
English Setters are also eligible to participate in dog sports like agility, flyball, and tracking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Has an English Setter ever won Best in Show?
Yes, an English Setter named Daro of Maridor won the Best in Show title at Westminster in 1938. This historic win was particularly notable as it occurred in Daro's first-ever dog show appearance at just 11 months old.
Is an English Setter a good house dog?
English Setters make great house dogs due to their gentle and affectionate nature. With proper care, they can thrive in most homes as a loving companion.
Are English Setters good running dogs?
English Setters can make great running companions, but their endurance is best suited for shorter distances of 4-6 miles. If you're looking for a running buddy, consider their energy level and distance limitations.
Sources
- https://www.postbulletin.com/news/local/belle-the-english-setter-from-pine-island-made-westminster-show-history
- https://midlandenglishsettersociety.co.uk/showing-an-introduction/
- https://www.leadingedgedogshowacademy.com/p/setters
- https://ladailypost.com/los-alamos-youth-participate-in-english-setter-national-dog-show/
- https://www.k9doggroomer.com/show-dog-grooming/
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