A Deep Dive into the English Setter: Your Ultimate Companionship Guide
Just like a man can't judge a book by its cover, an animal lover won't comprehend a breed's uniqueness solely from its appearance. When it comes to the world of dog breeds, the English Setter holds an honored position. Besides sporting a magnificent coat of variable colors and an elegant bearing, English Setters are affectionate, friendly, and an utter joy to have around.
Species and Breeding History
English Setters, like their cousins, Irish Setter and Scottish Setter, owe their origins to the world of hunting. Before the era of firearms, these setters were bred specifically to locate prey in the field, present a "set" (crouch low and freeze), and indicate the whereabouts of the game to the hunters. Edward Laverack, an 19th-century breeding enthusiast, played a crucial role in the development of English Setters. Laverack devoted nearly 50 years to the refinement of English Setter bloodlines, starting with a pair of blue belton (speckled) setters named Ponto and Old Moll. Owing to their exceptional beauty and hunting acumen, the lineage became highly valued, shaping the breed as we know it today.
The Look and Nature of English Setters
The English Setter showcases its elegance and strength through a robust yet graceful physique. Unlike Irish Setters, which are always red, or specifically colored Irish Red and White, English Setters feature a more varied color palette. From pure white to tri-colors, each bearing the unique "belton" flecking, they are a delight to the eye.
Although these dogs were originally bred for hunting, they are equally valued as family pets today. The English Setter is an affectionate breed known for its friendly temperament. They make excellent companions, devoted to their human families.
The English Setter's Daily Life and Care
With an athletic build and high energy levels, English Setters require significant daily exercise, with more than two hours preferred each day. They bear a moderately shedding coat, which can be black and white, orange and white, lemon and white, or liver and white. The preferred English Setter look is a belton, or flecked coat, rather than large patches. In terms of lifespan, you can enjoy the company of this faithful friend for more than a decade.
As energetic dogs, English Setters might develop destructive tendencies if deprived of sufficient activity. Puzzle toys to stimulate their minds, and games such as automatic ball launchers to channelize their physical energy, are highly recommended. Bred with a strong prey drive, they require systematic and firm training. However, owing to their inherent nature to please, they respond well to consistent training schedules.
English Setter: More Than Just a Beautiful Face
Appearances can be deceiving, and this is especially valid with the English Setter breed. Behind their appealing looks lies an active, intelligent, and friendly pet, filled with love for their family and enthusiasm for their outdoor time.
To conclude, whether you are an experienced dog handler searching for a hunting companion, or a cheerful family desirous of a devoted furry friend, the English Setter can blend seamlessly into any setting. These gentle, hard-working dogs are delightful companions, bringing joy, love, and liveliness to any home they inhabit.
References to the English Setter breed history and traits were made from the article “All about the English Setter” by Martha Terry. To know more, click here.