English Setter vs Llewellin Setter: Key Differences

English setter vs Llewellin setter: a Llewellin is a strain (bloodline) of English setter, not a separate breed. Every Llewellin is an English setter, but not every English setter is a Llewellin. Llewellins trace back to Richard Llewellin's field-bred dogs and are often described as smaller, closer-working and very biddable, while English setters as a whole range from show lines to big-running field dogs.

Below we compare history, size, coat, hunting style and temperament. Proud of your bird dog? Our English setter shirts can carry your dog's name.

Are Llewellin setters the same as English setters?

Genetically, yes. Project Upland notes that the Field Dog Stud Book (FDSB) "recognizes them as a strain of English Setters, but currently, no breed or performance standards exist." (Project Upland)

Gunner puts it simply: "A Llewellin Setter is an English Setter but an English Setter may not always be a Llewellin." (Gunner) The AKC registers the dog as the English Setter.

Where the Llewellin line came from

In the mid-1800s, Richard Purcell Llewellin began building his own line of English setters in Wales. According to Gunner, many English setters of the time were larger and bred more for the show ring, so he worked to develop a dog for the field. A purebred Llewellin's pedigree traces back to his foundation pair, Duke and Rhoebe, and is recorded in the FDSB. Because the pool of dogs is small, Gunner adds that pure bloodlines can be hard to keep and identify today.

English setter vs Llewellin setter: side by side

How do they hunt?

Project Upland describes Llewellins as "intelligent, quick to learn, and born with a strong innate ability to find birds." Breeder Kyle Warren calls them a "100-hour dog, not a 300-hour dog," and says that, as a broad generalization, "Llewellins are typically a closer-working dog that tends to be one of the more biddable lines of Setters."

Range depends on the cover and the line. Warren reports his dogs usually work 20 to 50 yards ahead in the woods and 50 to 200 yards in open country, while other breeders select faster, wider-ranging dogs. Gunner adds that their closer range suits dense cover and that many American hunters used them for quail in the South.

Which setter is the calmest?

There is no simple answer, because both vary by bloodline. Gunner describes Llewellins as "highly cooperative, hard-working dogs who just want to work for you in the fields." Project Upland stresses that personalities vary so much that buyers should research breeders to find a line that fits. Whichever you choose, plan on daily exercise and regular brushing; Gunner warns their feathered coat easily tangles with burrs and thorns.

Which one should you choose?

• Grouse and woodcock in thick cover: a close-working Llewellin or field-line English setter.
• Open prairie and wild birds: look for a line bred for wider range.
• Family companion first: talk to breeders about temperament, and meet the parents.

Planning a bird hunt? Read what to wear pheasant hunting. Comparing breeds? See are golden retrievers good hunting dogs.

Setter shirts and hoodies

Our English setter shirts show setters on point or with pheasants and can be personalized with your dog's name. Note that these are printed apparel, not a substitute for the blaze orange your state may require while hunting. Styles (hoodie, zip-up, long sleeve) and sizes differ by design, so check each product page.

FAQ

Are Llewellin setters the same as English setters?

Yes. A Llewellin is a strain of English setter recorded in the Field Dog Stud Book, without a separate breed standard.

Are Llewellin setters rare?

Pure, documented Llewellin bloodlines come from a small pool of dogs, and Gunner notes they can be tricky to identify today.

Are Llewellin setters good family dogs?

They are known for being people-focused and eager to please, but they are working dogs that need daily exercise.

How big do Llewellin setters get?

Project Upland cites 20 to 24 inches at the shoulder, with weight varying a lot by breeder and line.