You didn’t land on the English setter by accident. This is a breed people seek out, and for good reason. The gentleman of bird dogs, gentle, stylish, and people-loving, and elegant in the field and at home, they’re a natural fit for active families, hunters, and dog sport enthusiasts who want a gentle, beautiful, and devoted sporting companion who want a gentle, stylish, and warmly devoted sporting companion who brings elegance to the field and affection to the home. Let’s dig in.
What are the characteristics of a English setter?
Think you know what you’re getting into with a English setter? These scores will either confirm your suspicions or give you something to think about. Either way, good to know now.
Training
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Trainability | 3 out of 5 | Intelligent and trainable with patient, gentle handling. They are sensitive dogs |
| Obedience | 3 out of 5 | Reliable when training is consistent. Their sensitivity calls for gentle approaches |
| Focus | 3 out of 5 | Good focus in calm, engaging training environments |
| Stubbornness | 2 out of 5 | Not particularly stubborn. Their sensitivity and desire to please make them cooperative |
Friendliness
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Good with family | 5 out of 5 | Warm, gentle, and devoted to their family |
| Good with children | 5 out of 5 | Patient, gentle, and playful with children |
| Good with strangers | 5 out of 5 | Friendly with virtually everyone |
| Good with other dogs | 4 out of 5 | Good with other dogs |
Adaptability
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment living | 2 out of 5 | Their energy makes apartment living difficult |
| Cold weather | 3 out of 5 | Their coat provides moderate protection in cool weather |
| Hot weather | 3 out of 5 | Tolerates moderate heat |
| Routine flexibility | 3 out of 5 | Adapts when exercise needs are met |
| First time owner | 3 out of 5 | Can work for committed, active first-time owners |
Physical needs
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | 4 out of 5 | High energy. Built for all-day bird hunting |
| Endurance | 4 out of 5 | Good endurance in the field |
| Exercise needs | 5 out of 5 | Needs at least 60 minutes of vigorous daily exercise |
| Mental stimulation | 3 out of 5 | Intelligent and gentle. They benefit from purposeful engagement |
| Grooming needs | 4 out of 5 | Long, silky, flecked coat requiring moderate to high maintenance |
Personality
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Playfulness | 4 out of 5 | Playful and enthusiastic |
| Affection | 5 out of 5 | Deeply warm and physically affectionate |
| Loyalty | 4 out of 5 | Devoted and loyal |
| Independence | 2 out of 5 | Low independence. Extended alone time leads to anxiety |
| Alertness | 3 out of 5 | Alert and curious |
Behavior
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Barking tendency | 2 out of 5 | Not prone to excessive barking |
| Digging tendency | 2 out of 5 | Low digging tendency |
| Chewing tendency | 2 out of 5 | Low chewing tendency |
| Prey drive | 5 out of 5 | Strong bird and prey drive |
| Guarding instincts | 2 out of 5 | Too friendly to be guard dogs |
What are common health issues of a English setter?
Like all breeds, English setters are prone to certain health conditions. Here’s what to keep on your radar.
Hip Dysplasia
The hip joint develops abnormally, causing pain and arthritis over time. English Setters are an active breed, so stiffness after exercise or a changed gait are especially worth catching.
Read more about Hip DysplasiaElbow Dysplasia
A developmental condition affecting the elbow joint during growth. It causes front-leg lameness in younger dogs and can progress into arthritis without early management or surgery.
Read more about Elbow DysplasiaHypothyroidism
The thyroid gland does not produce enough hormone, slowing the metabolism. In English Setters, signs include weight gain, low energy, and a dull coat. Daily medication manages it well.
Read more about HypothyroidismEpilepsy
A neurological condition causing recurring seizures, seen in English Setters with some frequency. It often has a genetic component and is typically managed with long-term daily medication.
Read more about EpilepsyHearing Loss
English Setters can develop hereditary hearing loss, sometimes present from birth. A vet can screen for it early. Knowing sooner helps you adjust training and daily care accordingly.
Read more about Hearing LossWhat are the recommended health tests for English setters?
Your English setter can’t tell you when something’s off. That’s what these tests are for. Here’s what vets typically recommend for them.
-
OFA hip and elbow evaluation -
CAER ophthalmologist eye exam
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BAER hearing test for affected dogs
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OFA thyroid evaluation
Do English setters need pet insurance?
We’ll let the numbers do the talking, but spoiler: a lot of English setter owners are really glad they had coverage.
Those numbers aren’t hypotheticals. They’re real claims from real English setter owners in 2025.
The right pet insurance means you’re making decisions based on what your dog needs, not what you can afford.
With Lemonade, you can build a plan around your English Setter specifically. Start with accident and illness coverage as your base, then add on what makes sense for your dog, things like physical therapy, dental illness, or behavioral treatment, and skip what doesn’t. Coverage applies to conditions that aren’t pre-existing (AKA, a condition that occurs after your policy is active and your waiting periods have passed), and you’ll know exactly what’s included before you commit. No fine print ambushes, no surprises at claim time.
And when you do need to file? You can do it in the app in minutes. No paperwork, no hold music, no waiting around.
English setters are worth protecting with proper coverage. Here’s how to do it right.
How much does pet insurance cost?
The cost of your premium is personal. It depends on your English Setters age, your location, and what you add to your plan. That said, here’s a realistic look at what other English setter owners pay with Lemonade:
| Age | Average monthly premium |
|---|---|
| 1 year old | $40-$45 |
| 2 years old | $45-$50 |
| 3 years old | $45-$50 |
| 4 years old | $50-$55 |
| 5 years old | $60-$65 |
| 6 years old | $85-$90 |
| 7 years old | $70-$75 |
Not sure if Lemonade is the right fit for your English Setter?
See how we stack up. Compare pet insurance options side by side and find the coverage that fits your English setter and your budget.
History of the English setter
The English Setter is one of the oldest pointing breeds, with origins in England dating back to the 14th century. The breed is believed to have descended from spaniels crossed with pointers to produce a dog that could range widely and indicate bird locations by setting, or crouching, to show the hunter where to throw a net. As guns replaced nets in the 18th century, the setting behavior evolved into a more upright point. Sir Edward Laverack and Purcell Llewellin are credited with developing the two primary strains of English Setter in the 19th century: the showier Laverack type and the lighter, more compact Llewellin type preferred by American field hunters. The AKC recognized the English Setter in 1878. The breed's distinctive belton coloring, patches and flecking of various colors on white, is unique and beautiful.
Caring for a English setter
Training
Training a English setter is straightforward, but it’s worth the effort. They are gentle, eager to please, and highly motivated by praise and treats, which means training is enjoyable and productive when sessions are kept positive and reward-based. Positive reinforcement with treats and praise in calm, consistent sessions tends to work best, and getting started early makes a real difference.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or leveling up, these are worth the read.
Grooming
English setters have a long, silky coat that requires moderate grooming. Brush 3 to 4 times per week to prevent tangles and manage feathering, and the occasional trim keeps them looking their best. Professional grooming every 8 to 10 weeks keeps the ears, coat, and feathering looking tidy.
From nail trims to professional care, here’s everything you need to keep your English Setter looking (and feeling) their best.
Exercise and mental stimulation
English setters have high energy levels and need 60 to 90 minutes of exercise each day to stay happy and healthy. Running, fetch, and swimming are all great ways to burn through that energy. But physical exercise is only half the picture. English setters are moderately intelligent dogs, and mental stimulation is just as important as the miles you put in. Without it, they become restless, hyperactive, and prone to destructive indoor behavior without regular vigorous exercise. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and scent work are all solid ways to keep their brain engaged between walks.
Here’s how to build an exercise routine your English setter will actually love.
Nutrition
English setters are large dogs with high energy, so they need a diet to match. Most adults do well on around 1,300 to 1,700 calories a day, spread across two meals. Depending on what you’re feeding them, expect to spend around $60 to $90 a month on food. Not the cheapest line item, but not the most expensive either.
What goes in the bowl is your call, and your vet’s. Kibble, raw, fresh, or a combination: there’s no single right answer. Focus on quality ingredients, the right portions for your dog’s age and activity level, and you’re most of the way there.
Get the full picture on feeding a English setter here.
English setter costs and adoption
What does it cost to bring home a English setter?
Before your English setter even sets a paw in your home, there are some one-time costs worth planning for. Here’s what to expect upfront.
| Category | Cost Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Adoption (Reputable breeder) | $800-$2,500 | Health testing, vaccinations, early socialization, pedigree |
| Adoption (Rescue/shelter) | $50-$300 | Basic veterinary care, spay/neuter, temperament evaluation |
| Initial veterinary care | $300-$700 | Exam, vaccinations, spay/neuter if needed, microchip |
| Essential supplies | $200-$500 | Crate, bed, leash, collar, food bowls, toys |
| Training classes | $150-$300 | Basic obedience, puppy socialization |
Unexpected costs have a way of showing up in year one more than any other. A starter emergency fund alongside a solid pet insurance plan is the best way to make sure they don’t catch you off guard.
What does it cost to own a English setter each year?
Once you’re past year one, ownership costs settle into a more predictable rhythm. Here’s what most English setter owners spend annually, though keep in mind these numbers can vary quite a bit depending on where you live, your dog’s individual health needs, and the choices you make along the way.
| Category | Annual cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Food and treats | $700-$1,200 | Based on the recommended portion for your English setter |
| Routine Veterinary Care | $500-$1,000 | Wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care |
| Professional Grooming | $300-$600 | Every Every 8 to 10 weeks, Long silky feathered coat requires regular professional maintenance. |
| Toys and Supplies | $200-$400 | Replacement items, mental stimulation toys |
What are popular English setter names?
We’ve crunched the numbers, and found the top 10 most popular names for English setter we see at Lemonade.
More names where those came from. If none of these are clicking, we’ve done the digging for you. Go find the one that sticks.
English setter puppies
Puppy veterinary needs
The first year matters a lot. What happens between 8 weeks and 12 months shapes who this dog becomes. Here’s what to focus on.
The first few months are the most important window for your puppy’s health. Core vaccines start at 6–8 weeks and continue through 16 weeks. After that, its annual boosters and routine screening as they grow into adults.
It’s a lot to keep track of. That’s why we made it easy.
Puppy socialization
English setter puppies are gentle, stylish, and warmly devoted in a way that makes them outstanding for families who love beautiful sporting dogs. That an elegance in the field and warmth at home that few sporting breeds combine as naturally is part of what makes them vigorous daily exercise, gentle consistent training, regular professional grooming, and ear cleaning, and it’s also why early socialization matters so much.
Between 8 and 16 weeks, get them in front of as much variety as possible. Different people, animals, sounds, surfaces, and locations. Keep every experience positive. Puppy classes are great for this: supervised, controlled, and full of exactly the kind of novelty a English setter brain needs to learn that the world is mostly fine.
Where are English setter’s most popular in the United States?
Based on Lemonade’s own policyholder data, English setters are most popular in these five states. We’ve also thrown in a few things local pet owners should keep an eye on, so your pup can get out there and explore safely.
1. Michigan
Michigan summers bring a high tick risk across wooded areas of the Upper and Lower Peninsulas, with Lyme disease well-established in the state. In winter, frozen lakes and ponds can be a hazard for curious dogs. Ice thickness is hard to judge, and falls through are more common than owners expect.
2. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is one of the highest-risk states for Lyme disease in the US, with ticks active across the state's forests, parks, and suburban green spaces. Copperhead snakes are also found in wooded and rocky areas, particularly in the central and eastern parts of the state, so watching where your dog explores is worth the habit.
3. Washington
Western Washington's wet, mild climate creates near-perfect conditions for fleas year-round, and slugs in the Pacific Northwest can carry lungworm, a parasite dogs can pick up by sniffing or eating them. Eastern Washington and the Cascades bring different risks, including rattlesnakes and wildlife encounters on trails, so knowing which side of the mountains you're on matters.
4. Florida
Florida's heat and humidity make heatstroke a real risk, especially in summer. Keep walks to cooler parts of the day and always bring water. Blue-green algae blooms in freshwater lakes and ponds can also be toxic to dogs, so it's best to keep pups out of standing or slow-moving water, particularly from late summer into fall.
5. North Carolina
North Carolina's warm, humid climate supports year-round flea and tick activity, and the state sees consistent Lyme disease cases, particularly in the Piedmont and mountain regions. Copperhead snakes are also common in wooded and suburban areas, so watching where your dog sniffs around rocks and brush is a good habit.
Breed comparison
Already leaning toward a English setter? These breeds often get compared, here’s a quick snapshot of how they stack up.
Irish Setter
Both are elegant, energetic sporting breeds. Irish Setters are more outgoing and independent. English Setters are slightly larger, more laid-back, and better suited to family life.
Read more
English Springer Spaniel
Both are energetic, affectionate sporting breeds. English Springers are more compact and trainable. English Setters are larger, more laid-back, and better suited to relaxed hunting.
Read more
Brittany
Both are energetic, affectionate sporting breeds. Brittanys are more compact and easier to manage. English Setters are larger, more laid-back, and better suited to relaxed hunting roles.
Read more
English Cocker Spaniel
Both are affectionate, energetic sporting breeds. English Cockers are smaller and more compact. English Setters are larger, more laid-back, and better suited to open-field hunting.
Read more
Is a English setter right for you?
English setters reward the right owner with a gentle elegance in the field that makes them one of the most beautiful working sporting breeds and a warmth and people-orientation that makes them genuinely outstanding family companions. They just need vigorous daily exercise, gentle training, regular professional coat maintenance, and ear cleaning in return. If you’re ready for that, you’re ready for a English setter. Make sure they’re protected from day one.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of the policies issued, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage may not be available in all states. Please note that statements about coverages, policy management, claims processes, Giveback, and customer support apply to policies underwritten by Lemonade Insurance Company or Metromile Insurance Company, a Lemonade company, sold by Lemonade Insurance Agency, LLC. The statements do not apply to policies underwritten by other carriers.
Insurance claim data is based on Lemonade pet insurance claims that were settled and paid in 2025.
Average insurance premium data is based on Lemonade’s internal data and reflects the average premium over the last 12 complete months, accurate as of June 2026.
Top pet names are sourced from Lemonade’s database of pet names associated with submitted quotes and purchased policies.
Top states for each breed are based on the number of active Lemonade pet insurance policies for that breed in each state as of June 2026.