English Setter
Male: 27-36 kg, Female: 20-32 kg
Male: 65-68 cm, Female: 61-65 cm at the shoulder.
10-12 years
England
About the English Setter
The English Setter is an elegant and sophisticated member of the gundog family, renowned for its unique 'belton' coat patterns and aristocratic bearing. Often described as the 'gentleman of the dog world,' this breed combines a high-energy working drive in the field with a remarkably calm and affectionate nature within the home. Their physical silhouette is one of balance and grace, characterized by a long, lean head, a deep chest, and a powerful, level topline that facilitates a smooth, ground-covering gallop. Historically, they were developed to range over large distances to locate game birds, 'setting' or crouching low when they found their prey to allow hunters to cast nets over both dog and bird. Today, while they remain capable hunters, they are cherished primarily as devoted family companions. They thrive on human interaction and are known for their 'soft' temperament, meaning they respond best to positive reinforcement and gentle guidance rather than harsh correction.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the English Setter is defined by its 'belton' ticking—flecked coat patterns rather than large patches—which should be evenly distributed. The breed standard calls for a long, lean head with a well-defined stop and a kindly, intelligent expression in the dark hazel eyes. Their movement is a hallmark of the breed: a free, graceful, and effortless stride with a long reach and powerful drive, maintaining a dead-level topline. What truly distinguishes the English Setter is their 'sculpted' elegance; they possess a unique combination of strength and refinement that makes them look as though they were carved from marble, yet they remain soft to the touch and even softer in spirit.
Bred For
Locating and setting game birds on moorlands.
Temperament
Gentle, affectionate, friendly, and energetic with a merry disposition.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Grooming Needs
High; requires daily brushing of the silky feathering to prevent mats and tangles, plus regular trimming of the feet and ears.
Living Suitability
Not suited for apartment living; requires a medium to large yard with secure fencing. Thrives best in homes with acreage or easy access to large, open spaces for running.
Good with Kids
Excellent; known for being very patient and gentle with children of all ages.
Good with Other Pets
Generally very good with other dogs and can coexist with cats if raised with them, though they may chase birds due to their hunting heritage.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but can be independent or easily distracted by scents; requires consistent, reward-based training.
Coat & Colours
Long, silky, flat coat with extensive feathering on legs, underbelly, and tail.. Blue belton, orange belton, lemon belton, liver belton, or tricolour (blue belton and tan or liver belton and tan).
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
English Setters are predisposed to Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (bloat) due to their deep-chested conformation; this can be managed by feeding smaller, frequent meals and avoiding vigorous exercise immediately after eating. They are also more likely to experience ear infections because their long, heavy ear flaps trap moisture and heat—regular cleaning is essential to prevent yeast or bacterial growth. Their beautiful silky feathering is prone to matting and will collect 'hitchhikers' like burrs and grass seeds during walks, requiring daily post-exercise grooming. Prospective owners should also be aware of a potential for separation anxiety, as they are a highly social breed that can become distressed if left alone for long periods. While they are gentle, their high prey drive means they may be prone to wandering if they catch a scent, making secure fencing a necessity. Additionally, some lines may be predisposed to congenital deafness, so ensuring puppies come from BAER-tested parents is important.
Feeding Guide for Your English Setter
Healthy Weight
25-34 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
625-900 grams
For an adult English Setter, a fresh or raw diet should be calculated at approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. Some owners use smaller divided meals and avoid strenuous activity immediately around feeding. These steps cannot guarantee prevention of gastric dilatation-volvulus. Seek urgent veterinary care if bloat is suspected. This amount should be adjusted based on the individual dog's metabolism and activity level.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
High-quality, protein-rich diet to support an active lifestyle, with a focus on joint support and maintaining a healthy weight to prevent skeletal stress.
A balanced raw diet for an English Setter should include lean proteins like Australian Kangaroo or Beef to maintain muscle mass without excess weight. Incorporating Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oils or whole sardines is vital for maintaining their signature silky coat and supporting joint health. At Majestik Pet Food, our Kangaroo or Lamb-based fresh mixes provide the high-quality protein and essential fats these active dogs require.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
English Setter Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your English Setter? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
6-8 puppies
English Setter Owner Feedback
Real experiences and tips from English Setter owners
Other Large Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.
