From: dawn1@cbnewsd.cb.att.com (dawn.e.howe)
Newsgroups: rec.pets.dogs
Subject: Re: New owner of English Setter, I have questions
Date: 6 Nov 92 16:08:53 GMT
Article-I.D.: cbnewsd.1992Nov6.160853.17558
Organization: AT&T

From article <1992Nov4.191603.13806@dg-rtp.dg.com>, by starling@ripav33.rtp.dg.com (Johnny Starling):
> After sending out mail about getting a Golden vs English Setter, I
> decided on the English.  I just purchased a 4 month old male.
> Beautiful dog.  Now, I have a few questions, since this is my first
> dog, and I really want to do the right thing for it.  "It", ok,
> first question.    
> 
> What names are appropriate?  Suggestions?

Since most commands are one-syllable, it's a good idea to have
a two-syllable name, so he won't be confused.  Ours is Sophie, but
it doesn't really work for a male :-).
> 
> Since the dog is four months old, how much should he be feed per
> day.  I would personally just love to leave his dish constantly full,
> but that's probably a no no, especially if I want to train him to hunt.

Actually, you'll find that most English  Setters don't eat too much.
We really tried to put Sophie on a fixed feeding schedule, but she
never finishes, and there is always food out for her.  Books we read 
recommended 0-6 months feed three times a day, 6-12 months feed twice a day,
and over a year once a day.  The bag of dog food will tell you amounts.
We've tried Proplan, Nutro Max, and she doesn't seem real crazy about either
(dry food).  For a special treat, we have given her canned food, but it
made her stools loose, so we'll only mix it with dry.  We bought Nature's
Recipe last night, so we'll see if she likes that any better.  I've heard
good things about Eukanaba, but it's really high in calories so should only
be used if your dog is active (hunting burns lots of calories).  

Ask the breeder what he/she recommends, and use that.  I would stick
to a premium brand while he's a puppy.
> 
> The current owner is taking the dog for his last booster in two weeks.
> Is there a yearly shot or medication that is required?

If you are hunting, be sure to get a Lyme's booster.  It's a couple
of shots at first (if I remember right), and then once a year after that.
After Sophie's first trip this weekend, we pulled 2 ticks off her and are very
happy she's protected.  We also give heartworm pills once a month.  
Ask your vet.

Oh, you should have the dog checked out by a vet when you first get
it, to make sure it is healthy (within 48 hours), and no reputable
breeder will make you keep an unhealthy dog.  Sophie is guaranteed for
all major organs (including hips) for a year (even though the breeder
will take her back and "replace her", I don't think I could part with 
her at this point).  Find out what kind of guarantee you get.
> 
> Any recommendations on good books for obiedience training, and training
> to bird hunt (Quayle, sorry, couldn't resist).
I would recommend getting your dog in obediance classes as soon as you can.
For bird training, find out if there are any clubs or trainers in the
area who can help you work with your dog.  The breeder we bought Sophie
from trains bird dogs, and works dogs with live birds Sunday mornings.
We've gone a few times.

> 
> How often should I take the dog for a check up to the vet?
> 

Once you find a vet, they'll remind you to come in!  Also, your dog will
be old enough to be neutered soon.  You should seriously consider it.

Dawn Howe 
mom to 5 month old Sophie
Newsgroups: rec.pets.dogs