English setter

Overall description of the breed

The English Setter originates from the United Kingdom. However, the exact ancestry of this breed remains rather unclear and difficult to trace. Nevertheless, some specialists suggest that it might be the result of a cross between the ancient Quail Spaniel and the Oysel Dog.

It was only in the mid-19th century that the breed was truly established, thanks to Edward Laverack, who is considered its primary founder. His goal was simple: to create an English lineage hunting dog that combined a great working capacity with qualities of beauty superior to those of dogs in its category. The English Setter is one of the world's best pointing dog breeds, which is why it is the preferred choice of hunters seeking a high-performing partner.

Thanks to its exceptional working skills, the International Cynological Federation officially recognized it in the mid-20th century and definitively registered it on March 6, 1963.

The English Setter belongs to the category of medium-sized dogs, with an elegant and agile morphology, while still maintaining impressive power. The length of its body is equal to its height at the withers, creating a square appearance, with a slightly curved backline at the level of the loins and a narrow and well-descended chest.

Its head is deep, always longer than it is wide, with a discreetly domed skull and a thick muzzle that tapers toward the nose, accompanied by a well-defined stop. Its pendant ears, of medium size and rounded at the ends, are covered in good hair but are not too thick. Its round, dark, and bright eyes give it a lively and intelligent gaze. Its tail, of good length, is adorned with long fringes of hair and is carried horizontally in line with its back.

Its medium-length hair is smooth, silky, and lies flat across its entire body. The colors accepted by the standard are a predominance of white speckled with black, which can also include blue, orange, brown, or tricolor.

The English Setter is primarily a working dog, one of the best in its field. However, it also proves to be an adorable, balanced, and joyful family dog. Always dynamic and eager to engage in outdoor activities, it particularly enjoys sharing moments of play with its loved ones, especially if it involves tracking.

Versatile and sociable, it is extremely loyal to its owners and requires regular affection to feel fully fulfilled. Solitude does not suit it; being surrounded by its pack or family is crucial for its well-being. If left alone too often, it could quickly become depressed. Perfectly balanced, it knows how to distinguish between work and home life. Enduring and determined during hunting sessions, it will never give up a trail and will be gentle and attentive at home.

Non-aggressive and not very territorial, it doesn't excel as a guard dog, but it always remains welcoming to strangers. If you're looking for a faithful and loyal companion for everyday life, while also being an exceptional hunting partner, attentive and close to your family, the English Setter will perfectly meet your expectations.

As an adult, the English Setter weighs between 25 and 30 kg (55 to 66 lb) and measures between 59 and 65 cm (23.2" to 25.6") at the withers for males, and between 55 and 63 cm (21.6" to 24.8") for females.