The Setter was first developed in France in 1500 and comes from the Spanish pointer and the French pointer.

It’s only in the early 1800′s that the English Setter was developed by Sir Edward Laverack. A second strain of English Setters was also created by the English breeder, Llewelling.

The English Setter is a white dog with colored markings in a pattern known as the Belton pattern. Its coat has patches of color on the head and ears with flecks all over the coat. There can be blue Belton (black and white), orange Belton, blue Belton with tan markings, lemon Belton or liver Belton.

The coat of the English Setter is flat, with feathering on chest, abdomen, ears, under the thighs, back of the legs and on the tail.

The English Setter is a very calm dog with mild manners. This gentle and friendly breed is excellent with children. Always asking for affection, it needs lots of companionship. The English Setter is a sensitive, enthusiastic and lively dog that enjoys playing with other dogs. They are very good companion dogs and can make adequate guard dogs.

The English Setter is prone to hip dysplasia. This breed must never be overfed as it tends to gain weight easily.

The English Setter needs regular combing and brushing to prevent matting. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. The hair on the feet must be trimmed and the nails, clipped.

The training of the English Setter should start early and must never be done harshly.

The English Setter is very energetic; it needs plenty of daily exercise, preferably off the leash, to be manageable.