| Prior to the introduction of firearms for hunting,
various methods were employed to catch game birds.
Dogs were trained to seek birds and then to crouch
motionless near them until the hunter arrived and
threw a net.This type of dog became known as a
setter,because it would sit or "set" when it found
the birds.The English,which has been known since
the l4th century,is the oldest and most distinctive
of the four breeds of setter,the others being the
Irish,the Gordon,and the Irish Red and White.
Loyal and affectionate,the English Setter admirably
combines the role of family pet and sportsman's dog.
It is good with children,can live as one of the family
or outdoors,and needs only daily brushing with a stiff
brush and the use of a steel comb.Straggly hairs must
be removed before exhibition.Like most gundogs,
it requires plenty of exercise. |
