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Pet Insurance for English Setters

Find out all about English Setters and their common health conditions, then compare pet insurance options from some of Australia’s leading insurers.

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, updated on September 20th, 2023       

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Price range

$500 – $3,000

Height

61–69cm

Weight

23–36kg

Personality

Intelligent, energetic, affectionate

Coat length

Medium to long

Exercise needs

High

Kid-friendly?

Yes

Life expectancy

10–12 years

English Setter

Overview

The English Setter has a rich history rooted in bird hunting. Originating in England, the breed was developed for locating game birds, especially quail and grouse. Their striking appearance is characterised by a silky, flat-lying coat with a variety of colours and well-defined feathering on the ears, chest, belly and legs, giving it a regal and majestic presence.

As a versatile gun dog, the English Setter’s keen sense of smell and steadfast determination make them exceptional pointers and retrievers. Beyond hunting, they exhibit a gentle and affectionate temperament, making them wonderful family pets. They are known for their sociable nature and get along well with children and other pets, displaying a patient and tolerant disposition.

The English Setter brings a blend of energy and affection to the household. They thrive in environments that offer mental stimulation and regular exercise. Their sociable nature means they appreciate being a part of family activities and will form strong bonds with their human companions.

Common diseases and conditions of English Setters

  • Hip dysplasia: a common orthopaedic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to arthritis and mobility issues.
  • Elbow dysplasia: similar to hip dysplasia, this condition affects the elbow joint and can lead to arthritis and lameness.
  • Hypothyroidism: a hormonal imbalance that affects the thyroid gland, resulting in symptoms like weight gain, lethargy and skin problems.
  • Ear infections: English Setters, with their floppy ears, are prone to ear infections due to limited air circulation.
  • Deafness: some English Setters may experience partial or complete deafness, which can be congenital or acquired. Regular check-ups are essential to monitor their hearing health.

Breed-specific issues:  

English Setters, while spirited and energetic, can exhibit some challenging traits. Their high energy levels require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-induced destructive behaviour. These dogs may be reserved around strangers, so early socialisation is crucial. Additionally, their hunting instincts may lead to a tendency to chase smaller animals, necessitating vigilant supervision. Due to their exploratory nature, they may also have a propensity to wander, so a secure environment is imperative for their safety.

How much does pet insurance cost for an English Setter?

There are many factors that can influence the cost of pet insurance for your English Setter, including the following: 

  • Age: the older your dog is, the more pet insurance is likely to cost. This is because older dogs tend to have more physical health conditions and illnesses due to age, and so present a higher insurance risk.   
  • Type of insurance you choose:  there are three basic types of pet insurance available in Australia; accident-only, accident and illness, and comprehensive insurance. An accident-only policy is the cheapest type available, with comprehensive coverage costing the most. 
  • The policy annual limit: each pet insurance policy has an annual limit, which is the maximum amount that will be paid out on the policy in one financial year. Annual limits range from around $10,000 up to $25,000 or more.  
  • Sub limits: in addition to an annual limit, there may also be sub limits that apply to the policy, for example a $300 sub limit for consultation fees, or a $5,000 limit for cruciate ligament conditions.  
  • Benefit percentage: pet insurance may not cover 100% of the cost of your vet bill. Instead, it may pay a percentage of the total bill. This can range from 50% for cheaper policies up to 90% for top-of-the-range cover. 
  • Excess amount: this is the amount you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket each time you make a claim on your policy. Some pet insurance policies do not come with an excess amount, while others do. 
  • Any add-ons you choose: it’s possible to add on more cover options to a basic policy, such as emergency boarding fees, routine care and dental care. These add-ons extend the scope of your pet insurance, but do increase the overall cost of the policy.
  • Discounts: some insurers offer discounts of between 5% and 15% if you have multiple pets insured together, if you pay your premium annually, or if you bundle your pet insurance with other forms of insurance with the same company.  

Types of pet insurance you can choose from

Why compare pet insurance with Savvy?

Common questions about English Setters

What is the grooming routine for an English Setter?

English Setters have a beautiful, feathered coat that requires regular grooming. They should be brushed a few times a week to prevent tangles and mats. Additionally, their ears, which can be prone to infections, should be checked and cleaned regularly. Baths can be given as needed, typically every six to eight weeks. It's also important to inspect for ticks or burrs after outdoor activities.

How much exercise does an English Setter need daily?

English Setters are a high-energy breed that requires substantial daily exercise. They thrive on activities like long walks, runs, and interactive play sessions. Ideally, they should engage in at least 6090 minutes of physical activity each day. Regular exercise helps them burn off excess energy, prevents boredom-related behaviours, and keeps them mentally stimulated.

Are English Setters suitable for first-time owners?

Yes – English Setters are well-suited for first-time dog owners. Their friendly and adaptable nature makes them a good choice for individuals or families that may not have extensive experience with dog ownership. They are known for their sociable and playful disposition, and they tend to get along well with children and other pets. However, it's important for first-time owners to be aware of their exercise needs and to provide them with regular mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy and healthy, as well as the dog’s grooming requirements.

Do English Setters suffer from separation anxiety?

Yes – English Setters are known to be prone to separation anxiety. They are social dogs that form strong bonds with their families, and they can become distressed when left alone for extended periods of time. This may lead to behaviours such as excessive barking, destructive chewing or attempts to escape. It's important for owners of English Setters to provide them with regular mental and physical stimulation and to gradually acclimate them to being alone for longer durations.

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Compare pet insurance policies with Savvy

Whether you're buying for your dog or cat and whether they're big or small, you can compare pet insurance policies tailored to your furry friend's needs from Savvy's panel of trusted Australian insurers. Grab a free, no-obligation quote today!
English Setter

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