The English Setter is a dog breed that can easily be confused with a four-legged aristocrat because of its sophisticated look, high energy, and shining coat. Many people assume, because of this reason, that these dogs are high maintenance. But, is that really true?
Well, think about this: the Beatles didn’t compose “Let It Be” overnight, the Sistine Chapel wasn’t painted in a day, and Michael Jordan didn’t become an NBA star immediately after picking up a basketball. All great things require time, dedication, and patience. The same logic extends to English Setters. To fully appreciate the joy of owning one, you need to invest time and effort.
Known for their graceful gait, the English Setter is a blend of elegance and endurance. An aristocrat of the dog world, these dogs owe their popularity to their gentle, loving and obedient nature. However, the charm of owning an English Setter doesn’t overshadow the fact that it can be a lot of work to own one.
Perhaps, what often misleads many potential pet owners is the relaxed demeanor of the English Setter. Placid, charming and mild-mannered, they seem easy to handle, but beneath that sweet personality lies a high-spirited and independent dog. That is why English Setters are often termed as ‘mischievious charmers’ among the dog lovers’ community.
But the question is, does that make them high maintenance?
Before jumping to conclusions, let’s discuss this in depth.
Each pet brings a different set of responsibilities. As much as a pet can bring joy and love into your life, they require a certain level of care and attention. With certain breeds like the English Setter, which are high-energy and known for their activity levels, the “maintenance” factor can be slightly more demanding.
First and foremost, let’s talk exercise. Although they possess a calm nature indoors, English Setters are active, athletic dogs that love to play outdoors. Having been bred as bird dogs, they require a good amount of exercise to keep their muscles toned, their mind stimulated and to blow off their energy. Just like how humans need physical activity to stay healthy and happy, English Setters need it too. Leaving them without regular exercise can be detrimental to their physical and mental health.
Moreover, without adequate mental and physical stimulation, an English Setter may resort to destructive behavior to cope with the stress and anxiety. Therefore, an owner of an English Setter should be prepared to dedicate a portion of their day to engaging their pet in the form of walks, play dates at the dog park, or plenty of backyard time.
When it comes to grooming, English Setters require a fair amount of it as they boast a long, beautiful coat that unfortunately tends to tangle and mat quite easily. Frequent brushing can prevent knots and tangles and keep that eye-catching coat sleek and shiny. Additionally, their pendulous ears create a cozy environment for bacteria and infections to thrive, meaning owners must stay on top of their ear health.
So far, it might seem like owning an English Setter is quite a bit of work. But, before you change your mind, here is a totally different perspective to think about.
Every dog breed has its own set of needs and demands. English Setters, while requiring more exercise and grooming than perhaps a French Bulldog or a Chihuahua, offer their own unique set of pros as well.
Outstandingly gentle with kids and other pets, English Setters are ideal for families. Their high energy levels and love for outdoor activities also make them perfect companions for those who are active themselves. They are known to be loyal, loving pets who thrive on human companionship. Their ability to peacefully coexist with other dogs and children is a definite bonus.
Above all, the English Setter’s enthusiastic personality and tendency to form strong emotional bonds add an enriching dimension to their pet-owner relationships. Their need for interaction and assistance with grooming is what opens a door to the formation of healthy, emotional connections, rather than defining them as high-maintenance dogs.
In conclusion, whether an English Setter can be considered a high-maintenance breed or not entirely depends on your lifestyle and what you are looking for in a pet. If you enjoy physical activities and have time to dedicate to their exercise and grooming needs, an English Setter can be a beautiful addition to your family. Remember, each pet is an addition to your family, and like any family member, they deserve love, care, and attention. However, with understanding and love, all responsibilities appear less of a burden. After all, you cannot put a price tag on the love and affection that a pet showers you with times!
