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.

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.