Jonny and I thought carefully for years about the day we would finally become parents to a furry friend. We diligently researched our options and weighed the pros and cons of each breed, until we found the one that would fit perfectly with our idealistic lives. After hours of tedious calculations we came up with this: The English Setter. Of course, when we found London on a very nice man's website (search Anzil's Setters), all things technical melted away as her sad little frown and lopsidedly placed spots melted our hearts.
During the next 18 months we realized that you can't judge a dog by it's breed. While London fits wonderfully into our "less then idealistic" lives, we learned you can't always take what the American Kennel Club says as law. This is what I have learned from OUR English Setter:
1. English Setters are NOT mild shedders. On the contrary, my entire life has become consumed with dog hair. I eat dog hair, I sleep in dog hair, I wear dog hair and, from time to time, I breathe in dog hair. Maybe she will shed less when she's older, who knows, but for right now I just have to accept that everything black will be sort of white and everything white will be sort of black.
2. Enlish Setters are happiest when running in the wild
Here is a picture of London and Jonny doing what they both love best- hunting. She may look all nice and calm, posing for the camera, but notice the eyes. She's just waiting to make a great escape!3. English Setters make the best napping companions, ever!
This is what happens every weekend morning when I get out of bed and London realizes Dad is staying home and sleeping in with her.4. Toys do not stand a chance with an English Setter
No explanation needed! When she is determined, there is no stopping her.5. English Setters NEED excercise, or they will make you pay!
6. English Setters like to bark at people walking passed the front lawn
7. English Setters are scared of lots of things- water, half open door ways, garbage cans, and the dark
8. English Setters love you unconditionally!
And I wouldn't trade mine for anything!