Imagine discovering a treasure trove of beautiful furs, piled up behind your couch, floating onto your carpet or nestled comfortably on your favourite black clothing. No, you haven’t stumbled upon a secret stash of medieval furs; you’ve just found out what it’s like to live with an English Setter. This affectionate and energetic breed is widely loved for its friendly nature, stunning, long flowing coats, and the intense shedding that comes with it. Yes, you heard it right! English Setters are prolific shedders and this won’t surprise you in a bit if you already have one. But don’t let that deter you from letting an English Setter into your home and heart, after all, lost fur is a small price to pay for love.
So lets dive into the world of English Setters and get to grips with their furry shed-raising tendencies. They might be giving you a run for your money with the looks, but keeping your home fur-free can sometimes feel like an Olympic sport. Fear not, for we come bearing tips, tricks, and wisdom about managing your dog’s shedding routine.
Often mistaken for long-haired Springer Spaniels, English Setters come firmly under the category of medium-to-large sized dogs with a tucked waist and a graceful silhouette. They are considered to be one of the oldest gundog breeds and are revered for their striking coat. The beautiful, flat coat that characteristically flows in waves is a double layer. The top layer is slightly wavy and medium in length, providing protection from briars and cold weather while the undercoat is dense and soft, acting as additional insulation.
Traditionally, the grooming for English Setters is quite elaborate because they are a breed that was so much part of bird hunting, where the appearance of the dogs was just as important as their game skills. Therefore, the ‘bench’ or show Setters, maintain their glamourous, floor-length locks while the ‘field’ or working Setters have a shorter, more manageable coat.
But that good-looking coat comes with its share of troubles and that is a regular amount of shedding. They typically undergo a heavier moult twice a year, during spring and fall. This process is where the entire undercoat is shed and allows a new one to grow in preparation for the changing seasons. If you have an English Setter, expect to see a significant increase in the amount of hair around your home during this period. Additionally, like most dog breeds, English Setters also shed lightly throughout the year.
However, shedding shouldn’t be seen as a nuisance or a problematic quality in a dog. In reality, it’s a natural process and a sign that your dog’s coat is renewing itself. It’s essentially like us changing our wardrobes with the changing seasons. The extreme ‘wardrobe changes’ during spring and fall are what surprise many Setter parents, especially the ones who have the long-coated bench Setters.
Dealing with dog shedding can seem daunting especially if you are a first-time dog-parent or if you are used to non-shedding breeds. Here are some helpful tips to help you manage the dog hair situation at home:
1. Brush, Brush, Brush: Regular brushing can be a game-changing routine in controlling shedding in English Setters. It removes excess and dead hair right from the source, before it makes its way throughout your home. Consistent brushing will not only reduce the amount of hair floating around your home, but it also stimulates the skin and distributes oils, creating a healthier coat.
2. Maintain a healthy diet: A huge portion of your dog’s overall health is determined by their diet. A diet rich in essential fatty acids can greatly reduce shedding and promotes a glossy, healthy coat.
3. Regular Check-ups: While shedding is normal, excessive shedding can sometimes be a sign of underlying health issues. Regular check-ups with your vet can ensure any skin conditions or allergies that might increase shedding can be caught early and treated.
Remember, there is no ‘cure’ for shedding. Despite the hair tumbleweeds you may find around your home, shedding is a part of the natural life cycle for many dog breeds, including English Setters. Strategies such as regular grooming, a healthy diet, and regular check-ups are simply ways to control and manage shedding—not eliminate it.
In conclusion, English Setters shed a lot! However, the manageable chaos of dealing with dog hair is so much more bearable once you realise that this minor flaw is overwhelmingly outshined by the love, loyalty, and companionship these dogs bring. Owning an English Setter is a walk in the park – a walk filled with play, affection, and maybe a little bit of hair. But amidst the gentle showers of dog hair, you’ll find a loyal and loud cheerleader who keeps you company, dances in joy, and loves you unconditionally. So pick up that lint roller and embark on this journey filled with joy, love, and fur!
