Common Diseases and Disorders
In general, the English setter is a healthy dog with few medical concerns. However, the following diseases or disorders have been reported:
Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint develops abnormally and can result in pain, lameness and arthritis.
Elbow dysplasia occurs when the elbow joint develops abnormally and can result in pain, lameness and arthritis.
Deafness can be present at birth or develop later in life.
Hypothyroidism results when the thyroid gland does not function adequately. Without enough thyroid hormone, illness can occur.
Atopy is an itchy skin disease of animals that is caused by an allergy to substances in the environment.
Epilepsy is a seizure disorder, which develops between the ages of 2 to 5 years.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a disease that causes nerve cells at the back of the eye to degenerate. The condition usually begins in older pets and can lead to blindness.
Ectropion is a problem with the eyelid that causes eversion of the eyelid margin. It most commonly affects the lower central eyelid.
Life Span
The average life span of the English setter is approximately 10 to 14 years.
We realize that each dog is unique and may display other characteristics. This profile provides generally accepted breed information only.
