Introduction
The English Setter, also known as the Lawerack or the Laverack, is a breed of dog in the Sporting Group. This beautiful and graceful breed is known for their agility, intelligence, and athletic feats, but they are also famous for their extremely sweet and gentle temperaments. The English Setter was recognized by the AKC in 1884 and AKC approved in 1986.
The average English Setter stands 24 to 25 inches high at the shoulders and weighs between 45 and 80 pounds (the females are smaller and lighter than the males). Their soft feathery coat is easy to care for with regular brushing, but their ears should be cleaned on a regular basis and frequently checked for any signs of infections.
Temperament
The English Setter has a very affectionate, loving, and intelligent personality. This breed is very sensitive as well, and they do not respond well to anger or raised voices. They get along well with children of all ages, and they are wonderful family dogs.
While the English Setter has no aggressive tendencies, they are good watch dogs. However, the English Setter can be a challenge to many pet owners if they are not consistently trained, socialized, and exercised. This breed requires tons of exercise and mental stimulation, and they should not be with people who do not have the time needed to train and exercise this breed.
As a very intelligent breed, the English Setter has been known to cause mischief when bored. This breed can be difficult to train because of their sometimes stubborn nature, but consistent positive reinforcement can result in a very well behaved English Setter.
Health
The average life expectancy of the English Setter is between 10 and 12 years, and while they are generally a healthy breed there are some increased health risks and conditions associated with this breed. Canine hip dysplasia, congenital deafness, canine hypothyroidism, and cancer are some of the more well-known ailments that can affect Setters.
History
The English Setter is one of the oldest gundog breeds, and they were developed in England in the 1600’s as superior birding and hunting dogs. While the exact ancestry of the English Setter is unknown, some of their known ancestry includes mixes of pointer breeds and hunting dogs.
English Setter
Quick Facts
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Weight: 45-80 lbs
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Height: 24-25 in
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Coat: Soft, feathery, easy to care for
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Temperament: Affectionate, loving, intelligent
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Lifespan: 10-12 years