In France, the French setter is known as the Braque Francais. It is thought that the dog has its roots in the Spanish Pyrenees. Shortly after the breed began, it was moved to Europe and used for hunting purposes. The breed was rarely used as anything other than a gun dog. The French setter is a fantastic gun dog, never fearful of the noise of a gun or the hunt. Although the breed is a wonder in the field, it tends to shy away from hunting near water. Today, the breed is still used in Europe as a hunter, rarely being purchased or adopted for use as a family companion.
The breed standards call for a dog that is 25 inches at the withers. The heaviest French setter should weigh no more than 59 pounds, and males tend to be larger than females. The breed is well-proportioned and sturdy. The dog should not be overweight or excessively thin. The ears of the French setter are fairly long, typical of hunting breeds. The muzzle is long and the nose is dark, and the upper lips hang over the lower lips, forming jowls. The French setter’s coat is medium length and white in color with brown patches over the body.
Personality
French Setters are independent and strong-willed. Like other hunters, this breed must be made to understand that the human is the leader. Because the French setter is happiest when it is hunting or working, it is not one to be kept by an inactive family. A bored setter will quickly become destructive. French Setters are loyal to their owners and bond readily with their families. These dogs need to be socialized early and regularly if they are to get along with other pets and strangers. Owners do not plan to hunt their dogs should anticipate finding their dogs a job to do. The French Setter is simply a dog that must be kept physically and mentally challenged.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 11 - 12 years |
| Nicknames: | Small-sized French Setter, Braques Francais de Petite Taille, French Pyrenean Pointer |
French Setter Build Information
The breed standards call for a dog that is 25 inches at the withers. The heaviest French setter should weigh no more than 59 pounds, and males tend to be larger than females. The breed is well-proportioned and sturdy. The dog should not be overweight or excessively thin. The ears of the French setter are fairly long, typical of hunting breeds. The muzzle is long and the nose is dark, and the upper lips hang over the lower lips, forming jowls. The French setter’s coat is medium length and white in color with brown patches over the body.
| Size: | Small |
Behaviour and Personality
French Setters are independent and strong-willed. Like other hunters, this breed must be made to understand that the human is the leader. Because the French setter is happiest when it is hunting or working, it is not one to be kept by an inactive family. A bored setter will quickly become destructive. French Setters are loyal to their owners and bond readily with their families. These dogs need to be socialized early and regularly if they are to get along with other pets and strangers. Owners do not plan to hunt their dogs should anticipate finding their dogs a job to do. The French Setter is simply a dog that must be kept physically and mentally challenged.
| Activity Level: | Active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Kid friendly |
Appearance
These dogs need to be brushed at least every other day to keep fur from matting. Brushing also removes excess dirt and debris from the coat. The French setter is an average shedder and not recommended for people with allergies.
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Moderate |
French Setter Common Health Conditions
The French Setter is not prone to serious, genetic health problems. Like any hunting dog, the French setter may fall victim to injury. Routine veterinary exams will alert owners to any potential health issues in specific dogs.
French Setter Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
The active French Setter is not suited to a life of leisure. This dog is a fantastic land hunter but can be afraid of water. French Setters are fiercely loyal to their owners.
| Training: | Moderately easy |