If you’re considering an English setter puppy, popular among gun dog breeders, try to overlook the adorableness of the potential pet and ask hard questions that could save you some heartache after the purchase.
While English setters are known for mellowness and friendly dispositions as adults, as puppies they can be rambunctious and "into everything,"
the English Setter Association of America said. New owners need to factor in a considerable amount of time to break in the new member of the family.
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"English setter puppies are really, really cute, but if you don't have time to devote to training and socialization, you owe it to your pet to get an adult dog instead," the ESAA website said. "If you have toddlers, an adult is probably more suitable for you until your children are older."
Pia Salk, for Adopt A Pet.com, wrote that new owners must factor in time for housebreaking as well if the puppy is not already trained. Salk said the key to housebreaking is attention and consistency.
"Before you adopt an English setter, consider how much time your new family member will spend alone," Salk said. "Once a puppy soils the carpeting, it becomes much more difficult to train them out of that behavior. Here's a good rule of thumb to consider: a puppy can hold his bladder just one hour for every month they've been alive.
"For instance, a three-month-old puppy will need to empty his bladder every three hours. Before you adopt an English setter puppy, ask yourself if you are available to walk your dog several times throughout the day, and if you have the patience and commitment to wake up and take him out first thing every morning at the same time, and stick to a strict schedule," Salk noted.
The American Kennel Club said a new owner must also be ready to get an English setter not just out of the house but out of the yard. And maintaining its fur is a must.
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"He's a gentle, loving family dog who thrives on lots of vigorous exercise in a fenced yard or on the leash," the AKC website said. "And if you're (a) hunter, you can't ask for a better partner. Keep his elegant feathered coat at its best with regular brushing and grooming."
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