English Setter Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the English Setter
The English Setter is a graceful, feather-coated bird dog known for a famously gentle, mellow temperament that has earned it a reputation as one of the sweetest of the sporting breeds. Speckled with the flecked 'belton' coat pattern, it is affectionate, people-oriented, and patient with children, yet still very much an athletic gundog that needs substantial daily exercise and room to run. Without enough activity it can grow restless and mischievous around the house. The silky, feathered coat requires regular brushing to stay free of tangles and mats. Bred to hunt alongside people, the English Setter is biddable and sensitive, responding best to kind, consistent training rather than harsh correction, making it a rewarding family companion.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
Exercise needsHigher than most
Energy levelHigher than most
TrainabilityHigher than most
Grooming effortTypical
SheddingTypical
BarkingLower than most
Apartment fitLower than most
Good with childrenDefining trait
Good with other dogsHigher than most
First-time ownersHigher than most
2 active listings
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Where this breed shines
- Exceptionally gentle, affectionate, and patient with children
- Biddable and sensitive, responding well to positive training
- Sociable, people-oriented companion that also excels as an active gundog
Things to consider
- Athletic sporting dog that needs substantial daily exercise and space
- Feathered coat requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats
- Can become restless or mischievous if under-exercised or left alone too long
History
The English Setter was developed in England over several centuries as a bird dog that 'sets,' or crouches, upon locating game. Much of the modern breed traces to the careful nineteenth-century breeding programs of Edward Laverack and Richard Purcell Llewellin. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1884.
Temperament
English Setters are gentle, friendly, and affectionate, widely praised for a tolerant, people-oriented disposition. They bond closely with their families and are patient with children. As active gundogs they are lively and enthusiastic outdoors, yet calm and mellow companions in the home when well exercised.
Questions to ask a English Setter breeder
- Are the parents OFA-evaluated for hips and elbows?
- Have the puppies had BAER hearing testing?
- Is thyroid function screened in your breeding stock, and can you share clearances?
Health considerations to discuss
Hip and elbow dysplasia. Educational, non-diagnostic; OFA or PennHIP evaluations of breeding stock support responsible screening.
Deafness. Educational, non-diagnostic; BAER testing can identify congenital hearing loss, which occurs in mostly-white sporting breeds.
Hypothyroidism. Educational, non-diagnostic; OFA thyroid screening of breeding dogs helps identify this hormonal condition.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: AKC English Setter breed overview · OFA health testing database — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any English Setter litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a English Setter puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the English Setter listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How much do English Setter puppies cost?
Listed puppies currently range from $500 to $800. Each breeder sets their own price, which varies with the puppy's age, lineage, and location.
How can I tell if a English Setter breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.