English Setter vs Whippet
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
English Setter
Also known as: Laverack Setter, Llewellin Setter
The English Setter is a graceful and elegant gun dog known for its distinctive feathered coat and gentle demeanor. Often called the 'gentleman of the dog world,' they combine athletic prowess with a sweet, affectionate temperament that makes them exceptional family companions for active households.
Large
High
11-13 yrs
61-69 cm
Whippet
Also known as: Poor Man's Racehorse, English Whippet, Snap Dog
The Whippet is a medium-sized sighthound known for its elegant, slender build and remarkable speed. Originally bred by Victorian-era working-class miners for rabbit coursing and rag racing, Whippets combine explosive athleticism with a calm, affectionate indoor demeanor. They're often described as the 'Goldilocks' of dogs - not too big, not too small, active when needed but wonderfully quiet at home.
Medium
Medium
12-15 yrs
44-51 cm
9-14 kg
Quick Comparison
| Trait | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Family Friendly | ||
| Independence |
Key Characteristics
| Good with Kids | ||
| Good with Dogs | ||
| Good with Cats | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Apartment Friendly | ||
| First-Time Owner OK |
| Detail | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Energy Level | High | Medium |
| Grooming | High | Low |
| Trainability | Moderate | Moderate |
| Barking Level | Medium | Low |
| Shedding Level | High | Low |
| Chew strength | Moderate | Light |
| Housing | Yard | Apartment |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Hikers, runners, hunters, or active families with a large fenced yard. Someone who works from home or can provide companionship. Understanding they are getting a hunting dog, not a couch ornament. | Someone who works from home or has flexible schedule. Tolerant of a velcro dog that wants physical contact. Has access to secure fenced area for sprinting. Willing to dress their dog in coats. Doesn't expect reliable recall in open areas. |
English Setter Dealbreakers
- No fenced yard - dealing with a Setter without secure fencing is a part-time job
- Work long hours away from home - separation anxiety is significant
- Cannot commit to 60-90 min daily exercise
- Fastidious housekeepers - mud, hair, and water drips are part of the package
Whippet Dealbreakers
- Work long hours away from home (8+ hours daily)
- Want a dog that can be off-leash in unfenced areas
- Have free-roaming rabbits, guinea pigs, or birds
- Want a dog to live outside
- Dream of perfect off-leash heel at the park
Surrender Risk
| Factor | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Medium | Low |
| Primary Reasons | Escaping - 'He won't stay in the yard', Too much energy for owner's lifestyle, Separation anxiety and barking when left alone | Separation anxiety - owners underestimate velcro nature and dog destroys house when isolated, Life changes (divorce/moving) in combination with anxiety issues, Media-driven aesthetic purchases - viral 'long boi' videos create demand from unprepared owners |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | Medium | Low |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | Medium | Medium |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Low |
English Setter Social Traits
Low
Low - generally excellent with other dogs and enjoy pack life. Same-sex aggression is rare.
Whippet Social Traits
Low
Generally excellent with other dogs. Not prone to dog aggression but play rough (body slamming, neck biting) - do best with other sighthounds who understand the 'chase me' game.
Training
English Setter
- They are 'soft' dogs - harsh corrections or yelling will cause them to shut down or become fearful
- Recall training must be proofed with high distractions - a long line is recommended until reliability is 100%
- Use high-value treats to compete with bird distractions
Whippet
- Use high-value rewards (real meat/cheese) for recall training
- Keep sessions short and varied - they bore quickly
- Never expect off-leash reliability in open areas
- Focus on impulse control rather than trying to eliminate prey drive
English Setter Considerations
English Setters are intensely social 'velcro' dogs that bond deeply with their humans. Left alone for 8+ hours without conditioning or companionship, they frequently develop severe anxiety manifesting as destructive chewing, house soiling, and persistent howling.
Their predatory drive is all-consuming. On walks, they may become deaf to commands if they catch a scent or spot a bird. Off-leash reliability in unfenced areas is nearly impossible for the average owner.
Bored or under-exercised Setters are notorious for testing perimeter security. Their athleticism allows them to jump moderate fences, and digging instincts can compromise fence lines if they see prey on the other side.
Whippet Considerations
Whippets were bred to live in close quarters with owners, often sleeping in beds for warmth. They have very low tolerance for isolation - many cannot handle a standard 8-9 hour workday alone. Expect whining, howling, and destructive chewing of doorframes and bedding.
Movement triggers an explosive chase response that overrides all training. A plastic bag, squirrel, or even a running small dog can trigger instant 35mph pursuit. Recall is unreliable - a Whippet off-leash in an unfenced area may end up lost or hit by a car.
Extremely thin skin with no protective undercoat or fat layer. Prone to skin tears from minor snags on bushes or rough play. Zero cold tolerance - they will suffer without coats in cold climates.
Generally unsafe around rabbits, rodents, and birds. Cat coexistence is possible but requires careful management and early socialization - outdoor cats are seen as fair game.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Risky - while some can live with cats if raised together, the instinct to chase is hardwired. Generally not safe. | Possible with early socialization and confident cats - but outdoor cats trigger prey drive. Predatory drift can occur even with familiar cats if they bolt suddenly. |
| Small Mammals | Caution required - rabbits and hamsters trigger the chase instinct. Supervision mandatory. | Unsafe - rabbits, rodents, and hamsters are natural prey |
| Birds / Reptiles | Unsafe - birds are their ancestral prey. Will fixate on bird cages causing stress to both animals. | Unsafe - fast, jerky movements trigger the strike reflex |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Full |
| Biddability | High | Low |
| Noise Sensitivity | Low | Medium |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | N/A |
English Setter: Predatory sequence is Orient -> Eye -> Stalk -> Chase -> Point. The 'Grab-Bite' and 'Kill-Bite' are usually inhibited, meaning they are less dangerous to prey than terriers, but the chase drive is just as strong. They want to please but are easily distracted by birds.
Whippet: Full predatory sequence: Orient -> Eye -> Stalk -> Chase -> Grab-Bite -> Kill-Bite. Unlike herding dogs (arrested at Chase), Whippets complete the sequence. You cannot train the instinct out, only the control. Management (leash, fence) is safer than relying on training. They are 'cat-like' in biddability - cooperate if reward is high enough or if it's their idea. High adaptive intelligence (problem-solving, opening doors/latches), moderate working intelligence (obedience).
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 7-12 | 6-14 |
| House Training | Medium | Medium |
| Crate Training | High | High |
| Adolescent Regression |
English Setter: Setter puppies combine high energy with a distractible hunting brain. House training can be slower than average (sensitive to surface textures). Very mouthy and prone to chewing furniture if bored. Around 8-10 months, they often 'forget' recall - this is when they're most likely to run off after a bird.
Whippet: Easier than average puppy - cleaner and less destructive than gundogs or terriers. BUT they are fragile - a puppy jumping off a couch can break a leg. House training challenge: they hate rain/cold and may refuse to potty outside in bad weather. Covered potty areas are a lifesaver.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 12 months | 12 months |
| Adolescence | 12-24 | 12-24 |
| Adult Years | 2-8 | 2-9 |
| Senior Onset | ~9 years | ~10 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-3 years | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 61-69 cm | 44-51 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Large | Medium |
| Lifespan | 11–13 years | 12–15 years |
| Litter Size | 6-8 | 4-8 |
English Setter Coat
Whippet Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Locating and setting (pointing) game birds on English moors for net and gun hunters | Rabbit coursing and rag racing - developed as the 'poor man's racehorse' for working-class entertainment |
| Origin | England, 15th-17th century | Victorian England (Northern England mining communities), late 19th century |
Breeding Details
| Detail | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Low | Low |
| Whelping Difficulty | Easy | Easy |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | High | Low |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Medium | Medium |
| Min Fence Height | 1.5m | 1.8m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Medium | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
English Setter Health Issues
Whippet Health Issues
English Setter Suggested Tests
- BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) test for deafness
- Hip Evaluation (OFA or PennHIP)
- Thyroid Evaluation
- Elbow Evaluation
Whippet Suggested Tests
- Annual Cardiac Auscultation
- Echocardiogram (breeding stock or 7+ years)
- CERF Eye Exam (breeding dogs)
- MDR1 Gene Test
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Medium | Low |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | High |
| Neurological Risk | Low | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Medium | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | Medium | Low |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Low | Medium |
| Food Allergies | Grain sensitivities possible |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Fast |
| Eye Care Needs | Low | Low |
| Anal Gland Issues | Rare | Occasional |
Senior Care & Aging
English Setter Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis/joint stiffness
- Cancer (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma)
- Hearing loss
- Mobility issues
Quality of life often remains good until late. Cancer and mobility issues are the common end-of-life factors. Some reach 14-15 years.
Whippet Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Mitral Valve Disease (monitor closely)
- Arthritis
- Increased cold sensitivity
Generally sharp cognitively until the end. MVD is common cause of death - presents as coughing or lethargy, manageable with medication for some time. Increased need for warmth and soft bedding in senior years.
Grooming & Care
English Setter
high maintenanceWhippet
low maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
English Setter Daily Life
Whippet Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Over 50lbs | 25-50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | High | Low |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Excellent |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Low | Low |
| Therapy Dog | Medium | Medium |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,000-1,500 | $1,200-2,500 |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,300–$2,000 | $1,200–$2,500 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $180–$275 | $100–$180 |
| Yearly Range | $2,160–$3,300 | $1,500–$2,200 |
| Food / Month | $75-125 | $40-70 |
| Insurance / Month | $40-70 | $30-50 |
| Grooming / Session | $65-100 | $30-50 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $600-960 | $400-800 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
English Setter Lifetime Cost
$25,000-45,000
Whippet Lifetime Cost
$18,000-35,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | English Setter | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Rare | Occasional |
| Slobber Level | Moderate | None |
| Smell When Wet | Strong | Mild |
| Zoomies Frequency | Daily | Daily |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Medium | None |
English Setter Quirks
Setter Sprawl
Famous for sleeping in bizarre, contorted positions on furniture
Water Dripper
Loose 'flews' (lips) that drip water after drinking and leave slime on your pants after a nudge
Velcro Attachment
Will follow you to the bathroom - they need to be integrated into family life, not left as backyard dogs
The Off Switch
Indoors, a well-exercised Setter is a 'rug dog' - calm, quiet, and happy to sleep. Not hyperactive pacers like some herding breeds.
Whippet Quirks
The Whippet Lean
Will lean their full body weight against your legs while standing - affectionate but can knock you off balance
Roaching
Sleep on their backs with legs in the air - the 'dead cockroach' pose. Perfectly normal and indicates comfort.
Heat-Seeking Missiles
If you stand up, your warm seat is gone. They will claim any warm spot instantly.
The 23-Hour Nap
After their hour of activity, they will happily sleep the remaining 23 hours. Best metabolic off-switch in the dog world.
Frequently Asked Questions
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