All about English Setterdoodle dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "English Setterdoodle" Breed (parent breeds: "English Setter" × "Poodle (Standard)")

The average English Setterdoodle weight typically ranges from 40 to 75 pounds for a healthy adult English Setterdoodle. Males often fall into the higher end of this range, while females are usually on the lighter side. This average size can vary slightly depending on the specific size of the Poodle parent (Standard Poodle is assumed for this size range) and the English Setter parent. Achieving a healthy weight for English Setterdoodle is important for their overall well-being.

How tall is a English Setterdoodle?The average English Setterdoodle height at the shoulder typically ranges from 22 to 27 inches. These elegant dogs inherit their stature from both the English Setter and the Standard Poodle.You can expect some variation in the English Setterdoodle's average size due to genetics and gender. While both males and females generally fall within this range, males may sometimes be on the higher end of the spectrum, while females might be slightly shorter. Individual genetics play a significant role, so even within the same litter, you might find some pups that are a bit smaller or larger than average. If you're wondering how tall is a English Setterdoodle puppy will get, consider the size of its parents as a good indicator. This makes for a medium to large-sized companion, perfect for active families looking for a dog with a substantial but manageable presence.

The English Setterdoodle can display a wide array of beautiful English Setterdoodle colors, blending the genetics of its parent breeds. You'll commonly find solid colors such as black, chocolate, cream, apricot, and red. Many English Setterdoodles inherit the stunning patterns of the English Setter, resulting in belton (intermingled white and colored hairs) in shades of orange belton, blue belton (black and white), and lemon belton. Tri-color patterns (black, tan, and white or liver, tan, and white) are also possible. For those seeking rare English Setterdoodle colors or exotic English Setterdoodle variations, you might encounter blue (diluted black), silver, or even phantom (a specific pattern of tan points on a solid base). It's important to note that while these colors exist, major kennel clubs like the AKC do not officially recognize the English Setterdoodle as a breed, so there are no AKC recognized English Setterdoodle colors. Pricing can vary based on rarity of the coat, with rare coat types often commanding a higher price.

The English Setterdoodle combines the amiable nature of the English Setter with the intelligence and trainability of the Poodle. Expect a friendly, loyal, and highly sociable companion that thrives on human interaction. These dogs are generally excellent with children, displaying a gentle and patient demeanor, and typically get along well with other pets if properly socialized from a young age. Their adaptability is moderate; while they cherish family time indoors, their energetic heritage means they are not ideally suited for apartment living without significant daily exercise. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them highly trainable. The English Setterdoodle personality is often described as outgoing, playful, and affectionate, making them wonderful family dogs for active households.

The English Setterdoodle temperament is generally friendly, intelligent, and eager to please, making them wonderful companion dogs. They are highly sociable, thriving on interaction with their families and often greeting strangers with enthusiasm. Their loyal nature means they bond deeply with their owners, often preferring to be involved in household activities.While adaptable, their energetic personality traits are best suited for homes with a yard or active owners; apartment living can be challenging without ample daily exercise. They are typically excellent with children due to their gentle and playful disposition, and generally good with other pets when properly socialized from a young age.These clever dogs can sometimes show a touch of stubbornness, a trait inherited from both parent breeds, especially during training. They are also known for their sensitivity, responding best to positive reinforcement and gentle correction rather than harsh methods. Early training and socialization are crucial for a well-adjusted English Setterdoodle.

English Setterdoodle Care: Daily Maintenance & Health TipsThe English Setterdoodle, a charming cross between an English Setter and a Standard Poodle, generally boasts a moderate to high energy level and requires attentive English Setterdoodle care.Grooming Needs: This breed typically has a wavy to curly coat that is low-shedding but high-maintenance. Expect regular, at least weekly, brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for a trim and bath is often necessary to maintain coat health and manage length. Pay close attention to ear hair, which can grow inside the ear canal and needs plucking to prevent infections.Exercise Requirements: English Setterdoodles are not a low-energy dog breed. They require significant daily exercise – at least 60-90 minutes of active play, walks, or runs to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Mental stimulation through training and puzzle toys is also crucial.Dietary Considerations: Feed a high-quality, age-appropriate dog food formulated for medium to large breeds. Monitor caloric intake carefully to prevent obesity, a common health concern for many breeds. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations.Wrinkle and Ear Cleaning: While not a brachycephalic breed, their Poodle ancestry can lead to floppy ears, making them prone to ear infections. Regular (weekly) ear cleaning with a vet-approved solution is essential. Check for redness, odor, or discharge.Climate Sensitivity: English Setterdoodles generally tolerate various climates but may struggle in extreme heat due due to their dense coats. Ensure access to shade and water in warm weather and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day.Common Health Concerns & Prevention:* Skin Issues: Regular grooming and monitoring for hot spots or allergies are important.* Dental Care: Daily tooth brushing is highly recommended to prevent dental disease, a widespread issue in dogs.* Weight Management: Monitor food intake and ensure adequate exercise to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate other health problems.* Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): Common in deep-chested breeds, feed smaller, more frequent meals and avoid vigorous exercise immediately after eating.* Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Genetic screening of parent dogs is crucial. Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress.How to care for a English Setterdoodle involves a commitment to consistent grooming, ample exercise, a balanced diet, and proactive health monitoring. With proper daily maintenance, your English Setterdoodle will thrive as a healthy and happy companion.

English Setterdoodle Activity Level: How Active Are English Setterdoodle?

I would rate the "Size" trait of the English Setterdoodle a 7 out of 10.This hybrid breed typically falls into the medium to large range. Standard Poodles, one of the parent breeds, are already substantial dogs, and English Setters are known for their athletic and gracefully built, yet still sizable, frames. You can expect an English Setterdoodle to inherit a similar build, often with a good amount of lean muscle. They will likely stand somewhere in the range of 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 40 to 70 pounds, though there can be some variation depending on the specific parentage. While they aren't giant breeds like Great Danes, they are definitely not small lapdogs. Their overall body structure is usually well-proportioned and athletic.Due to their medium-large size and active nature, English Setterdoodles are generally not best suited for apartment living unless the apartment is exceptionally spacious and the owners are committed to providing ample daily exercise outdoors. They would likely find most standard apartments too cramped for their comfort and energy levels. They can certainly travel in a car, but their size means they'll take up a significant amount of space, likely requiring a dedicated crate or a large section of the back seat. For households with space constraints, they would be a poor fit. They thrive in homes with a yard and access to outdoor activities where they can stretch their legs and burn off energy.

I would rate the grooming requirements of an English Setterdoodle at a 7 out of 10.This rating leans towards high-maintenance because the breed inherits a mix of challenging coat characteristics from its parent breeds. The English Setter typically has a long, silky coat that requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats, especially in feathering areas. The Poodle, on the other hand, has a non-shedding, curly coat that grows continuously and mats easily if not brushed frequently and professionally clipped every 6-8 weeks. An English Setterdoodle will likely inherit a coat that is wavy to curly, dense, and prone to tangling and matting. This means daily brushing will be essential to prevent painful mats, and professional grooming for clipping will be required every 6-10 weeks, depending on coat growth and desired length. While shedding might be reduced compared to an English Setter, it won't be entirely absent, and the coat's density will still trap loose hairs. Additionally, like most long-eared breeds, ear cleaning will be necessary to prevent infections, and nail trimming will be a regular chore. While they don't typically have skin folds, their dense coat could potentially trap moisture if not dried properly after baths, leading to skin irritation. Overall, the English Setterdoodle requires frequent and specialized grooming to keep its coat healthy and free of mats, making it far from an easy-care breed compared to many other companion dogs.

I'd rate the "Exercise Requirements" of an English Setterdoodle a 8 out of 10.This hybrid combines two intelligent and active breeds. The English Setter is a gundog known for its endurance, speed, and need for significant outdoor activity. They thrive on long runs, hikes, and engaging in activities that utilize their natural hunting instincts. The Standard Poodle, while elegant, is also a highly energetic and intelligent dog bred for retrieving from water. They excel in dog sports like agility and thrive on both physical and mental stimulation. Therefore, an English Setterdoodle will almost certainly inherit a high drive and energy level. They will not be content with minimal activity; rather, they will require substantial daily exercise to stay healthy, prevent boredom, and avoid destructive behaviors. Daily walks are a good start, but they will truly thrive with vigorous playtime, jogging, hiking, or participating in dog sports like agility or obedience. Their build, generally athletic and non-brachycephalic (unless an atypical Poodle lineage is involved), allows for sustained movement without respiratory limitations. Owners should be prepared for a dog that needs structured routines including both physical exertion and mental challenges to remain well-adjusted and stimulated.

I'd rate the English Setterdoodle's watchdog ability as a 4 out of 10.While the Poodle parentage might contribute a degree of alertness and some inclination to bark at unfamiliar sounds, the dominant influence of the English Setter typically leans towards a very friendly, gentle, and less territorial nature. English Setters are not generally known for being particularly suspicious of strangers or having strong protective instincts. They are more likely to greet an unfamiliar person with a wagging tail than with aggressive barking or an attempt to deter. Therefore, while an English Setterdoodle might offer some early warning barks to a new arrival at the door, it's unlikely to be a persistent or genuinely deterrent presence against an intruder. They are far more suited to being passive companions than providing meaningful, effective early warnings or acting as a deterrent in a home environment.

Rating: 9/10Explanation: Both the English Setter and the Standard Poodle are generally known for their amiable and sociable natures, particularly with other dogs. English Setters, originally bred to work in packs and alongside other pointing breeds, typically possess a very agreeable and tolerant disposition, rarely displaying aggression towards other canines. They tend to be playful and enjoy the company of other dogs. Standard Poodles, while intelligent and sometimes a bit reserved with strangers, are also usually very good-natured with other dogs, especially when well-socialized from a young age. They are often playful and adaptable.Therefore, an English Setterdoodle can be expected to inherit this strong "good with other dogs" trait. They are likely to be extremely sociable and dog-friendly, thriving in canine company. They typically adapt well to multi-dog households and are generally compatible with dogs of various sizes and energy levels, enjoying play and companionship. While early socialization is always beneficial for any breed to ensure well-rounded behavior, the inherent temperaments of the parent breeds suggest that English Setterdoodles would require minimal effort for peaceful coexistence and would likely enjoy rather than just tolerate other dogs. They are unlikely to display aggression or dominance issues, making them excellent candidates for homes with existing canine companions.

I cannot provide a rating for the "Energetic" trait of the "English Setterdoodle" that explicitly considers the impact of brachycephalic anatomy, as neither the English Setter nor the Standard Poodle are brachycephalic breeds. Therefore, the English Setterdoodle would not inherently possess a brachycephalic anatomy.However, I can rate the "Energetic" trait based on the typical activity levels of its parent breeds:Rating: 8/10The English Setterdoodle is likely to be a highly energetic dog, earning an 8 out of 10. Both parent breeds contribute to this rating. The English Setter is a gundog bred for long hours in the field, possessing immense stamina, a strong desire to run, and a playful nature. They require significant daily exercise to be content. Similarly, the Standard Poodle, while elegant, is an athletic and intelligent dog that thrives on activity and mental stimulation. They excel in dog sports, have good endurance, and are known for their playful exuberance. This crossbreed will almost certainly inherit a strong drive for physical activity, requiring extensive daily walks, runs, and opportunities for vigorous play and engagement. They are far from laid-back and would be suitable for active individuals or families who can dedicate ample time to their exercise needs, potentially enjoying hiking, running, or dog sports. Their naturally athletic build, without the impediment of brachycephalic anatomy, would allow them to participate in a wide range of outdoor and athletic activities with good stamina and tolerance.

I would rate the "Training Requirements" of the "English Setterdoodle" at a 6.English Setterdoodles are generally intelligent dogs, inheriting the Poodle's renowned trainability and the English Setter's eagerness to please in many aspects. However, their Setter parentage also introduces a strong prey drive and a potentially more distractible nature, especially during adolescence. While they are quick to pick up new commands and thrive on positive reinforcement, they can exhibit a charming stubbornness when something more interesting (like a bird scent) catches their attention. Consistency is paramount; a wavering hand will likely result in a dog that "hears" but doesn't always "obey." Their attention span can be good in focused training sessions but may be shorter in highly stimulating environments. This breed is not overly demanding to the point of requiring an expert, but it's also not a "beginner-friendly" dog that will train itself. New owners will need to be committed to establishing clear boundaries and consistent routines from day one, employing patient, positive reinforcement techniques. They will benefit greatly from structured obedience classes and ongoing mental stimulation to prevent boredom and channel their energy productively.

I'd rate the English Setterdoodle's "Playful" trait an 8 out of 10. This hybrid is likely to be a very spirited and fun-loving companion, inheriting a significant zest for life from both its parent breeds. English Setters are known for their enthusiastic, friendly, and somewhat clownish nature, always up for a game or a romp in the yard. Poodles, especially Standard Poodles, are also highly intelligent, active, and enjoy engaging with their families, often displaying a playful side well into adulthood.The English Setterdoodle will likely thrive on interaction and games, being naturally inclined to chase balls, play tug-of-war, and engage in various forms of mental and physical stimulation. They will probably be quite attention-seeking when they want to play, using various charming tactics to encourage their humans to join in the fun. Their response to toys and playtime will be enthusiastic, often with a wagging tail and bright eyes. Compared to many more laid-back companion dogs, the English Setterdoodle will undoubtedly be a naturally spirited breed, requiring regular opportunities for vigorous play and interaction to keep them happy and well-adjusted.

I'd rate the "Affectionate" trait of the English Setterdoodle a 9 out of 10.This breed is highly likely to be extremely loving and people-oriented. Both parent breeds, the English Setter and the Standard Poodle, are known for their strong desire for human companionship and deep loyalty. English Setters are often described as "Velcro dogs" due to their tendency to follow their owners from room to room and their demand for attention, while Standard Poodles, despite their elegant appearance, are equally devoted and thrive on being part of the family. The English Setterdoodle will almost certainly inherit this combined desire for closeness, enjoying physical proximity like cuddling and lap-sitting (though a full-grown Standard Poodle/Setter mix might be a bit large for a true lap dog, they'll certainly try!). They will be very sensitive to owner emotions and readily offer comfort. This breed will absolutely thrive on affection and close family bonds, likely being happiest when they are involved in all family activities rather than being left to their own devices. While intelligent and capable of independence, their fundamental nature will lean heavily towards being a devoted and demonstrative companion.

I would rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the English Setterdoodle as an 8 out of 10.English Setterdoodles generally inherit a lovely blend of traits from their parent breeds that contribute to a high degree of compatibility with other animals. Both English Setters and Poodles are known for their sociable and gentle dispositions. English Setters were bred to work cooperatively with humans and often get along well with other dogs, displaying a generally friendly demeanor. Standard Poodles are highly intelligent and adaptable, and when properly socialized, are typically very accepting of other household pets.While the English Setter does possess a hunting background, the strong prey drive is often directed towards birds and can be managed with proper training and early socialization. The Poodle's influence can further temper this instinct. Resource guarding is not a prominent trait in either parent breed, and a well-bred and properly socialized Setterdoodle is unlikely to exhibit strong tendencies in this area.To achieve this high level of pet-friendliness, early and consistent socialization is key. Introducing them to a variety of other animals from a young age helps them develop appropriate social skills. While they are naturally sociable, supervision is always recommended, especially during initial introductions or with smaller, more vulnerable pets like hamsters or birds, due to the residual hunting instincts. With adequate training, mental stimulation, and a clear understanding of household hierarchy, the English Setterdoodle is an excellent candidate for a multi-pet household, often thriving on the companionship of other animals.

Rating: 9/10The English Setterdoodle, a charming blend of the English Setter and Standard Poodle, generally excels in the "Good with Children" trait, earning a high rating. This hybrid typically inherits a wonderful combination of the English Setter's gentle, affectionate, and even-tempered nature, coupled with the Standard Poodle's intelligence, playfulness, and trainability. These dogs are often patient and tolerant, making them well-suited for the sometimes unpredictable energy of children. Their moderate to high energy levels mean they enjoy active play, which can be a great match for older, more boisterous kids, while their inherent sweetness allows them to be gentle with younger ones. They are generally quite tolerant of noise and the occasional clumsy handling that comes with young children, though like any dog, early socialization and teaching children respectful interaction are key. While naturally gentle and affectionate, consistent training and supervision are beneficial to ensure good manners and a harmonious household, particularly during the puppy stage. However, their intelligence makes them quick learners, and their desire to please usually means they adapt well to family life.

Rating: 9The English Setterdoodle, inheriting traits from both the English Setter and the Standard Poodle, is highly likely to be excellent with strangers. Both parent breeds are known for their friendly and outgoing dispositions. English Setters are generally jovial and good-natured, often greeting new people with a wagging tail. Standard Poodles, while intelligent and sometimes initially observant, quickly warm up to new acquaintances and are not typically shy. This hybrid is expected to be naturally sociable and welcoming, enjoying interaction with unfamiliar adults rather than being reserved or suspicious. They are generally adaptable in public or guest-filled environments and are unlikely to exhibit significant barking or guarding behaviors towards strangers. While good socialization during puppyhood will always enhance their natural tendencies, an English Setterdoodle is inherently predisposed to be comfortable and friendly with new people.

I would rate the English Setterdoodle's winter tolerance at a 7.The English Setterdoodle, being a cross between an English Setter and a Standard Poodle, inherits characteristics that lend themselves to good, though not exceptional, cold weather resilience. Both parent breeds possess a single, relatively dense coat rather than a thick double coat, which offers decent insulation. The Standard Poodle's curly, hypoallergenic coat can be quite dense, and the English Setter's medium-length, feathery coat provides some protection. The Setterdoodle's coat thickness will vary depending on which parent's coat genes are more dominant, but it's unlikely to be a super-thick, Arctic-ready coat. Their medium to large size means they have a lower surface area to volume ratio compared to smaller dogs, helping them retain heat more effectively, and they typically have a healthy amount of body fat. They are not brachycephalic, meaning their breathing will not be compromised in cold, dry air.While they can certainly enjoy outdoor activities in cold climates, they are not bred for extreme cold. They will likely be comfortable in temperatures down to freezing and slightly below for moderate periods of activity. However, in sustained sub-zero temperatures, or during periods of inactivity, they will be more susceptible to hypothermia than breeds with thick double coats. Therefore, while they don't require extreme special care, owners should be mindful of the duration of their outdoor exposure in very cold weather. They may benefit from a dog coat or sweater for prolonged outings or in extremely frigid conditions, especially if their Poodle-like coat has been clipped short. Compared to other companion dogs, they are generally more tolerant than short-haired or toy breeds, but less so than northern breeds like Huskies or Malamutes.

I'd rate the "English Setterdoodle" at a 6 for summer tolerance. While neither parent breed is brachycephalic, which is a major plus for breathing in heat, both do have dense coats that can trap heat. Standard Poodles have hair that continues to grow and, if kept long, can be quite warm, though they are often clipped short. English Setters have a moderate to long feathery coat. The Setterdoodle will likely inherit a wavy to curly coat that, depending on the length and density, will require regular grooming to prevent matting and help with heat regulation. They are active dogs that enjoy outdoor activities, but their energy levels and coat will necessitate careful monitoring in hot weather to prevent heatstroke. They can regulate their body temperature reasonably well, but like most dogs, they are susceptible to overheating if overexercised or left without shade and water on hot days. They will certainly require special care in summer compared to very short-haired or less active breeds, including avoiding peak heat hours for exercise, providing ample shade and fresh water, and potentially needing a cooler environment indoors, especially if their coat is kept long.

The English Setterdoodle, a mix of the English Setter and Standard Poodle, would likely rate around a 7 out of 10 for healthiness. This is due to the potential for "hybrid vigor," where the genetic diversity from two different breeds can sometimes lead to fewer breed-specific health issues compared to either parent breed alone.Both parent breeds, while generally healthy, do have some genetic predispositions. English Setters can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and certain cancers. Standard Poodles are known for hip dysplasia, Addison's disease, bloat, and sebaceous adenitis. The crossbreed can inherit any of these conditions, so responsible breeding practices are crucial, including genetic testing of the parent dogs.However, the likelihood of inheriting *all* of a single parent breed's specific problems is often reduced. English Setterdoodles are generally considered a moderately robust breed compared to some brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds or toy breeds with delicate constitutions. They typically have a good life expectancy, aligning with their parent breeds, which is around 10-14 years. While not considered high-maintenance in terms of inherent fragility, their active nature and potential for a wavy or curly coat do require regular exercise and grooming, which contributes to their overall well-being. Preventive care, including a balanced diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and appropriate exercise, is essential for maintaining their health.

I'd rate the "Protective" trait of an English Setterdoodle a 3 out of 10.The English Setterdoodle is primarily a companion dog, blending the typically gentle and friendly nature of the English Setter with the intelligent but often equally affable Poodle. Both parent breeds are more known for their social inclinations than for strong guarding instincts. While an English Setterdoodle will undoubtedly be loyal to its owners and may bark to alert them to a stranger's presence, this is more due to their alertness and desire to communicate than a deep-seated territorial drive or the intention to deter. They are unlikely to be aggressive towards intruders and, in many cases, might even greet a stranger with curiosity rather than suspicion. They are not suitable as guard dogs and would offer minimal meaningful protection beyond an initial alert bark.

Rating: 8The English Setterdoodle, a cross between the English Setter and the Standard Poodle, benefits from the generally robust health and good lifespans of its parent breeds. Both English Setters and Standard Poodles typically live between 10 to 14 years, with many individuals exceeding that range with proper care. While crossbreeds can inherit genetic predispositions from either parent, responsible breeding practices aiming for genetic diversity and health screening can mitigate common issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and certain eye conditions found in the parent breeds. Given proper nutrition, regular exercise, veterinary care, and a loving home, the English Setterdoodle is considered a long-lived breed compared to many other companion dogs, often reaching the higher end of the 10-14 year spectrum and beyond.