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English Setter

12–14 year lifespan · large breed · 45–80 lbs

$48,000 – $65,500

Estimated 13-year lifetime cost of a English Setter in California, excluding insurance

$6,800 First year
$4,000 Each year after
$500 Expected medical

For your breed and state, self-insuring is likely more cost-effective than paying premiums.

How much does a English Setter cost per year?

Annual cost breakdown for a English Setter in California. Ranges reflect typical low-to-high spending.

Food $1,200–$1,600
Routine Vet Care $750–$1,050
Preventatives $400–$550
Illness & Emergency Reserve $150–$200
Grooming $400–$550
Supplies & Gear $500–$650
$4,000
per year
Food$1,40035%
Routine Vet Care$90023%
Preventatives$45011%
Illness & Emergency Reserve$2005%
Grooming$50013%
Supplies & Gear$55014%

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What health problems do English Setters have?

Breed-specific conditions your English Setter may face, ranked by expected cost impact.

Hip Dysplasia

●●○○ moderate Age 1–5
Probability 12%
Treatment range $50–$9,450

Elbow Dysplasia

●●○○ moderate Age 1–3
Probability 6%
Treatment range $50–$6,100

Hypothyroidism

●○○○ mild Age 4–10
Probability 8%
Treatment range $0–$200

Allergies / Atopic Dermatitis

●○○○ mild Age 1–5
Probability 10%
Treatment range $50–$700

Risk tier: low. Total expected medical cost: $500 over the breed's lifetime.

Is pet insurance worth it for a English Setter?

Over your dog's lifetime, you'll pay $8,500 in premiums. Expected uninsured medical costs: $0–$1,500.

Self-insure may be betterPets Best · 13-year projection
Best value

Pets Best

Monthly premium $55/mo
Annual premium $650/yr
Deductible $200
Reimbursement 90%
  • Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
  • Bilateral condition coverage (both sides)
  • Unlimited annual limit available

Get a quote from Pets Best

MetLife

Monthly premium $85/mo
Annual premium $1,000/yr
Deductible $250
Reimbursement 100%
  • Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
  • Bilateral condition coverage (both sides)
  • Dental illness included
  • Unlimited annual limit available

Get a quote from MetLife

Trupanion

Monthly premium $80/mo
Annual premium $950/yr
Deductible $200
Reimbursement 90%
  • Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
  • Bilateral condition coverage (both sides)
  • Unlimited annual limit available
  • No orthopedic waiting period

Get a quote from Trupanion

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Frequently asked questions

How much does a English Setter cost over its lifetime?

A English Setter costs between $48,000 and $65,500 over its 12–14 year lifespan in California. The first year typically costs around $6,800 including supplies, training, and initial vet visits.

What are the most common English Setter health problems?

The most common health issues for English Setters include Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia, Hypothyroidism, and Allergies / Atopic Dermatitis. Owners should budget for both preventive care and potential treatment costs.

Is pet insurance worth it for a English Setter?

For your breed and state, self-insuring is likely more cost-effective than paying premiums. The English Setter is a large breed with moderate health risks. Joint issues and allergies are common. Insurance provides good value for ongoing orthopedic care.

How much does English Setter food cost per month?

English Setter food costs typically range from $55 to $110 per month, with an average of $78. Costs vary based on food quality, brand, and your dog's specific dietary needs.

How much is English Setter pet insurance per month?

Pet insurance for a English Setter costs $33–$62 per month (average $46/mo). Premiums vary by your dog's age, location, chosen deductible, and reimbursement level.

Sources

Figures on this page are modeled estimates calibrated to published benchmarks (accessed 2026-07-21). Breed characteristics follow AKC breed standards. Full formula and inputs: our methodology.