What is the temperament of a English Setter?

English Setters are known to be strong willed, mischievous, affectionate, energetic, playful, companionable, gentle, hard-working, intelligent, eager, people-oriented, funny, smart, curious, friendly. This combination of traits makes them excellent companions for families with children. Their temperament is influenced by both genetics and proper socialization from an early age.

How much exercise does a English Setter need?

English Setters are high-energy dogs requiring 60+ minutes of vigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation.

How often should I groom my English Setter?

English Setters need moderate grooming including brushing 2-3 times weekly and regular maintenance.

How do I train a English Setter?

English Setters may require extra patience during training and respond best to positive, consistent methods.

Are English Setters good with children?

English Setters are excellent with children. Their natural patience, gentle nature, and resilience make them outstanding family dogs. They typically form strong bonds with children and tend to be forgiving of the occasional accidental rough handling that can occur with younger kids. Remember that proper socialization and teaching children appropriate interaction with dogs are always important, regardless of breed.

What makes the English Setter unique compared to other dog breeds?

The English Setter stands out from other breeds due to its rich heritage from England, specialized abilities for bird setting, retrieving. This unique combination of characteristics makes them special among dog breeds and appeals to owners who appreciate these distinct qualities. Understanding these traits helps provide appropriate care tailored to their specific needs.

What should I know before getting a English Setter?

Before bringing a English Setter into your home, potential owners should consider: They have high exercise requirements (4/5) and need an active owner. They typically excel in family environments with children (5/5 child-friendliness). They can be challenging to train (2/5) and are better suited for experienced dog owners. Their large size requires adequate living space. Additionally, researching reputable breeders or rescue organizations is essential for finding a healthy, well-socialized English Setter. Understanding these factors will help ensure a good match between the breed and your lifestyle, leading to a happy relationship for both you and your dog.

What were English Setters originally bred for?

English Setters were originally bred for bird setting, retrieving. As part of the Sporting group, they share characteristics with other breeds developed for similar purposes. Understanding your English Setter's breeding heritage helps explain many of their natural behaviors and instincts, which can be channeled appropriately through training and enrichment activities. Even though modern English Setters are primarily companions, these inherent traits remain part of their genetic makeup.

How long do English Setters typically live?

The average lifespan of a English Setter is 12 years. With proper care including quality nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate exercise, and preventative healthcare, some English Setters may live beyond this range. Genetics, environment, and healthcare all play important roles in determining longevity.

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English Setter

Written by Dr. Sarah Johnson, Veterinary Consultant

Published: January 15, 2024 • Last updated: December 18, 2025

Temperament

Strong Willed, Mischievous, Affectionate, Energetic, Playful, Companionable, Gentle, Hard-working, Intelligent, Eager, People-Oriented, Funny, Smart, Curious, Friendly

Weight

45 - 80 lbs

Height

24 - 25 inches

Life Span

12 years

Breed Group

Sporting

Bred For

Bird setting, retrieving

Origin

England

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Additional Characteristics

Good with Children5/5

Good with Other Dogs5/5

Trainability2/5

Energy Level4/5

Grooming Needs3/5

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs4/5

They are high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Grooming Requirements3/5

They need moderate grooming, including regular brushing and occasional professional care.

Trainability2/5

May require extra patience during training

Good with Children5/5

They are excellent with children and often form strong bonds with them.

Good with Other Dogs5/5

🐕 English Setter Guide

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Overview

About the English Setter

The English Setter is a wonderful dog breed with unique characteristics.

Breed Purpose

Bird setting, retrieving

Temperament

Strong Willed, Mischievous, Affectionate, Energetic, Playful, Companionable, Gentle, Hard-working, Intelligent, Eager, People-Oriented, Funny, Smart, Curious, Friendly

How We Find Similar Breeds

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English Setter

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