English Setter Feeding Guide
Published by DosageGuide · Reviewed
How much to feed your English Setter, daily calories, portion sizes, and feeding schedule
Originally bred in England, the English Setter has become one of the world's most recognizable large breeds, sitting at #74 in AKC popularity. The gentleman of the sporting world. As a large Sporting breed, the English Setter was built for an active life of retrieving, flushing, and swimming. This athletic heritage directly shapes their nutritional needs, they require a protein-rich diet that supports sustained muscle performance and recovery. An adult English Setter needs between 1109 and 1708 calories per day, though this varies with age, weight, activity level, and individual metabolism.
An adult English Setter weighing 45 to 80 lb needs about 1109 to 1708 kcal a day, around 1419 kcal for a neutered dog at a healthy weight with moderate activity. On a dry food of 380 kcal per cup that is 2.9-4.5 cups daily, roughly 306 to 475 grams, split into two meals; on wet food alone, 4.4-6.8 cans of 250 kcal; on a raw diet, 14-38 oz of food, about 2-3% of body weight. Weigh the ration rather than measuring it by cup, since kibble density varies by up to a third between brands, count treats inside that total rather than on top of it, and keep them under ten per cent of the calories. A English Setter that gains or loses weight on these amounts needs a vet's opinion, not simply a different scoop: these figures are a starting point for a healthy dog, and they assume the 12-to-15-year life stage and activity level described below rather than pregnancy, illness or working days.
Two of the conditions this breed is screened for change how it should be fed, and the less common one matters more here because it is the one a general feeding guide never mentions. With elbow dysplasia, lameness after exercise rather than during it is the usual sign, and the feeding lever is the same as for any joint condition, which is keeping the dog at the lean end of its range. With hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid slows the metabolism, so a dog on the correct ration can still gain; if weight rises without more food, that is a reason to test rather than to cut the ration further. Neither is a reason to choose a different food off the shelf; both are reasons to weigh the ration rather than estimate it.
A third predisposition worth knowing is hip dysplasia: every excess pound is carried by the joint, so the body-condition score matters more here than in a breed without the predisposition, and a dog kept one rib-width leaner has measurably less pain over its life. A English Setter that never develops any of these still benefits from the same habits, because the habits are simply good feeding practice made specific.
A long coat is a continuous protein demand rather than a seasonal one, and a dull, brittle coat is one of the first visible signs of a diet short on protein or on fat. Grooming shows it before a scale does. For a English Setter, that is the check worth making weekly.
Males and females of this breed differ enough in size that one ration does not fit both: around 63 lb against 54 lb on average, a gap of 16 per cent. Feeding both from the same scoop overfeeds one and underfeeds the other, and the figures on this page should be read against the dog in front of you rather than against the breed average.
Plan on 0.7–1.6 cups of premium dry food daily for your adult English Setter, divided into morning and evening meals. Given this sporting breed's predisposition to Hip Dysplasia, discuss dietary approaches that may help manage this risk with your vet. Males 65-80 lbs, females 45-55 lbs. Show-bred dogs tend to be larger and heavier than field-bred dogs, which are leaner and more athletic..
Daily Calorie Needs for English Setter
Adult
1109-1708
kcal/day
Puppy (peak)
1316
kcal/day (6-9 mo)
Senior
807-1242
kcal/day
Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different, consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Feeding Strategy for English Setters
With an above-average energy level, the English Setter benefits from a feeding plan that balances calorie intake with their active lifestyle. Two measured meals per day totaling 2.9-4.5 cups of kibble provides steady energy without the blood sugar spikes of a single large meal. Choose a formula with at least 25% protein and moderate fat to support their daily activity.
English Setter Feeding Schedule
Morning (7-8 AM)
1.5-2.3 cups kibble
Evening (5-6 PM)
1.5-2.3 cups kibble
Split Meals
Portion Sizes by Food Type
Daily Portions for English Setter
Based on average adult weight and activity level
| Food Type | Daily Amount | Calories | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Kibble | 2.9-4.5 cups | 1109-1708 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~380 kcal per cup |
| Wet Food | 4.4-6.8 cans | 1109-1708 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~250 kcal per 13oz can |
| Raw Diet | 14-38 oz | 1109-1708 kcal | 2 meals/day | 2-3% of body weight |
- Amount
- 2.9-4.5 cups
- Calories
- 1109-1708 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~380 kcal per cup
- Amount
- 4.4-6.8 cans
- Calories
- 1109-1708 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~250 kcal per 13oz can
- Amount
- 14-38 oz
- Calories
- 1109-1708 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
2-3% of body weight
Exercise & Feeding for English Setters
The English Setter requires significant daily exercise, typically 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity. On high-activity days (hiking, running, dog sports), increase their food by 10-20% to compensate for the extra calorie burn. On rest days, stick to the baseline portion. Never feed a large meal within 30 minutes of intense exercise; instead, offer a small snack 2 hours before activity and the main meal 1 hour after.
Joint Health & Nutrition
Joint health is a primary nutritional concern for English Setters, which are predisposed to Hip Dysplasia and Elbow Dysplasia. Diet plays a preventive and management role at every life stage. For puppies, controlled growth rate and proper calcium-phosphorus ratios protect developing joints. For adults, maintaining ideal body weight reduces mechanical stress on joints. Specific nutrients can slow cartilage degradation and reduce inflammation.
Recommended Joint Supplements
Coat & Skin Nutrition
The English Setter's Long requires nutritional support from the inside out. Long-coated breeds need consistent nutritional support to maintain coat health, prevent matting, and reduce breakage. A diet deficient in essential fatty acids, biotin, or zinc will show in the coat quality within weeks, look for dullness, excessive shedding, or dry, flaky skin as early warning signs.
Key Nutrients for Coat Health
Thyroid Health & Diet
Hypothyroidism is a recognized concern in English Setters, affecting metabolism, weight, coat quality, and energy level. A English Setter with untreated hypothyroidism may gain weight despite eating normal portions, develop a thin or dull coat, and become lethargic. If your English Setter shows these signs, a simple blood test can confirm the diagnosis. While thyroid medication (levothyroxine) is the primary treatment, dietary support matters: ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet, maintain strict portion control to prevent weight gain, and consider a weight-management formula if your dog is on thyroid medication but still struggling with weight.
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Using a puppy formula designed for small breeds
Large and giant breed puppies need controlled calcium and phosphorus levels to prevent developmental orthopedic diseases. Always choose a large-breed puppy formula that supports slow, steady growth rather than rapid weight gain.
Not adjusting portions for activity level
An active English Setter that runs for 2 hours burns significantly more than one that had a lazy day. Track activity and adjust portions accordingly, up to 20% more on high-activity days, 10% less on rest days.
Skipping joint supplements until problems appear
For breeds predisposed to joint issues, preventive supplementation with glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can help protect cartilage before damage occurs. Starting these supplements early, even at 1-2 years old, is more effective than waiting for symptoms.
Not providing enough water alongside increased food
Active large breeds process significant amounts of food and need plenty of fresh water. Ensure your English Setter always has access to clean water, and consider adding water to kibble if hydration is a concern, especially after exercise.
Blaming laziness for weight gain without checking thyroid
English Setters are predisposed to hypothyroidism, which slows metabolism and causes weight gain even on normal portions. If your English Setter is gaining weight despite measured feeding, ask your vet for a thyroid panel before simply cutting food.
English Setter-Specific Feeding Tips
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Breed-Specific Nutritional Needs
Based on health conditions common in English Setters, consider these nutritional adjustments:
Glucosamine & Chondroitin
Add a joint supplement with glucosamine (500-1000mg) and chondroitin. Consider foods with added omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) to reduce inflammation.
Iodine & Selenium
Ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet. Weight management is important as hypothyroidism can cause weight gain.
English Setter Ideal Weight
To determine if your English Setter is at a healthy weight (45–80 lbs target): Rib test: You should be able to feel the ribs without pressing hard, with a thin layer of fat covering them. Waist check: Viewed from above, there should be a visible waist behind the ribs. Tuck-up: From the side, the abdomen should tuck up behind the rib cage. Their long coat can mask weight gain, so hands-on assessment is essential.
Male English Setter
45-80 lbs
20-36 kg
Female English Setter
38-70 lbs
17-32 kg
Related Guides
Feeding Guides for Similar Breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
An adult English Setter typically needs 1109-1708 calories per day, which translates to approximately 2.9-4.5 cups of dry kibble daily, split into two meals. However, this is a starting point, your specific dog's needs depend on their exact weight within the 45-80 lb range, activity level, metabolism, and whether they're spayed/neutered (which reduces calorie needs by about 20-30%).
Adult English Setters should be fed twice a day, ideally 12 hours apart (morning and evening). Some owners of large breeds prefer three smaller meals, which can help with digestion and energy levels throughout the day. Consistent meal times help regulate digestion, blood sugar, and make house training easier.
Look for a food that lists real meat (not meal or by-products) as the first ingredient, contains 22-30% protein, and is formulated for large breeds. Large breed formulas have controlled calcium (1.0-1.5%) and phosphorus levels to support skeletal health. Weigh the food rather than measuring it by cup: kibble density varies by up to a third between brands, so the same cup can hold 80 or 120 grams.
Given the English Setter's predisposition to joint issues, consider: glucosamine HCl (500-1000mg/day), chondroitin sulfate, and omega-3 fish oil (EPA/DHA). Green-lipped mussel extract is also showing promise in studies. Many premium dog foods already include glucosamine, check your current food's label before adding supplements. Start joint support early (1-2 years old) for prevention rather than waiting for symptoms to appear. Always consult your vet before starting a supplement regimen.
Large breed English Setter puppies should transition to adult food between 12-15 months of age. The key is not to switch based on size alone, your puppy should be at or near their expected adult height. Transition gradually over 7-10 days, mixing increasing amounts of adult food with decreasing amounts of puppy food. Choose a large-breed adult formula with appropriate calcium and phosphorus levels.
Raw (BARF) diets are an option for English Setters, with proponents citing shinier coats, cleaner teeth, and better digestion. A typical raw diet provides 2-3% of body weight daily, for a English Setter, that means roughly 14-38 oz per day. The diet should include muscle meat (70%), raw meaty bones (10%), organ meat (10%), and vegetables/fruits (10%). However, raw diets carry risks of bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalance if not properly formulated. Consult a veterinary nutritionist before switching.
A healthy adult English Setter weighs between 45-80 lbs (males: 45-80 lbs, females: 38-70 lbs). Use the body condition score (BCS) method: you should be able to feel ribs with light pressure but not see them, observe a visible waist when viewed from above, and notice an abdominal tuck from the side. If your English Setter exceeds 92 lbs or you can't feel the ribs, consult your vet about a weight management plan.
Adult English Setters weigh 45–80 lbs (males: 45–80 lbs; females: 38–70 lbs). Males 65-80 lbs, females 45-55 lbs. Show-bred dogs tend to be larger and heavier than field-bred dogs, which are leaner and more athletic.. The figures on this page assume a neutered adult at a healthy weight with moderate activity; an intact, working or growing dog needs more, and a dog on restricted exercise needs less.
Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer
The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.
Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.
These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.