setter

A long-haired sporting dog which belongs to one of several breeds performing the same function as a pointer; probably developed by breeding spaniels with pointers.

The Setter is a type of gundog used most often for hunting game such as quail, pheasant, and grouse. A setter silently searches for game by scent. When prey is encountered the dog's behavior defies nature, and the dog freezes rather than chases after the game.

The ancestors of modern setters probably originated in Spain in the 1500s and evolved from spaniels.

Most setter breeds have long, silky coats that require maintenance. Setters have a tendency to be happy, playful dogs and are usually very friendly both to people and other dogs.

Setters include the following breeds:

English Setter Gordon Setter Irish Setter Irish Red and White Setter Red Setter