English Setter

An elegant, stylish and symmetrical gundog with a heritage of well developed hunting instincts and bird sense, the English Setter is a lovely breed.

Setters originally got their name from the fact that they were used to "set" game for sportsmen's nets. The English Setter's proficiency in ranging out over open country, finding, setting, and then pointing game, explains his well-deserved popularity.

The English Setter is the smallest and least volatile of the three setters. A true gentleman by nature, he possesses a very soft, kindly expression which endears him to everyone he meets. His lovable, gentle nature, coupled with his great willingness to please, makes him a very desirable family companion. Happy, friendly and affectionate, he is not, however, the best choice for a guard dog, as he is likely to welcome strangers as long lost friends! Despite this, he is ideal for the sportsman who wants a reliable, kindly dog which can double both as a working dog and a family pet.

The English Setter responds well to obedience. He requires considerable exercise and is best suited to someone with a bit of space and a fairly active lifestyle.