How much does a English Setter cost per year?

After the first year, a English Setter costs approximately $3,610 per year on average, covering food ($945), vet care ($635), grooming ($1,070), and insurance ($740).

largedog12 yr lifespan

How Much Does a English Setter Cost?

Q: Is a English Setter expensive to own?

English Setters have a lifetime ownership cost of approximately $45,305 over 12 years. The US national average for dog ownership is around $2,600/yr, so English Setters are above average in annual running costs.

The English Setter's typical 12-year lifespan and large size both factor into its long-term cost of ownership. Routine trips to a professional groomer are common, so factor that into the annual budget. Routine preventive care — vaccinations, parasite control, and annual check-ups — makes up most of the ongoing vet budget. High energy levels mean a larger food budget and more spending on toys, exercise gear, and enrichment.

Get My Personalised Estimate

$5,595

First Year Total

inc. one-time setup

$3,610

Annual Ongoing

per year from year 2

$45,305

Lifetime Estimate

over 12 years

First Year Costs (inc. setup)

Purchase / Adoption Fee

Varies by breeder vs rescue

$375

Initial Vet Visit & Vaccinations

Spay/neuter, microchip, health check

$580

Starter Supplies

Bed, crate, collar, bowls, toys

$875

Training Classes

Basic obedience recommended

$375

First Year Food

$945

First Year Vet Care

$635

First Year Grooming

$1,070

First Year Insurance

$740

Total$5,595

Annual Ongoing Costs (Year 2+)

Food

$945

Vet Care

$635

Grooming

$1,070

Pet Insurance

$740

Supplies & Toys

$220

Total$3,610

Budget for emergencies

We recommend keeping $3,000 in a dedicated emergency fund for unexpected vet bills.

About the English Setter

The English Setter is a large-sized dog breed with an average lifespan of 12 years. First-year ownership costs typically run around $5,595, which includes the purchase or adoption fee, initial vet visits, vaccinations, starter supplies, and the first year of food, grooming, and insurance.

From year two onwards, ongoing costs average $3,610 per year. The largest recurring expense is food at $945/year, followed by vet care at $635/year. Grooming is a significant cost for this breed at $1,070/year, reflecting their coat maintenance requirements.

Over a 12-year lifespan, the total estimated cost of owning a English Setter is approximately $45,305. These figures are US national averages — your actual costs will vary based on your city, lifestyle, and whether you use a breeder or rescue organisation. Use our calculator above to get a personalised estimate.

How to save on English Setter costs

→Adopt, don't shop. Rescue organisations typically charge $150–$400 compared to $375+ from breeders. Adult dogs from shelters are often already vaccinated and desexed.
→Get pet insurance early. English Setters insured as puppies or kittens typically see lower premiums and fewer exclusions. At $740/year, insurance can save thousands on a single emergency.
→Buy food in bulk. Premium food for a large dog costs $945/year on average. Buying 15–20kg bags and comparing brands can cut this by 20–30%.
→Learn basic grooming. Professional grooming costs $1,070/year for this breed. Learning to brush and bathe at home between professional appointments can halve this cost.
→Build an emergency fund. We recommend $3,000 in a dedicated pet savings account. A single emergency surgery can cost $3,000–$8,000 without insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a English Setter cost?

A English Setter typically costs $5,595 in the first year, including the purchase or adoption fee ($375), initial vet visits ($580), supplies ($875), and the first year of food, grooming, and insurance. Annual ongoing costs from year two are approximately $3,610/year.

How much does a English Setter cost per month?

After the first year, a English Setter costs approximately $301/month on average. This covers food ($79/month), vet care ($53/month), grooming ($89/month), and insurance ($62/month).

Is a English Setter expensive to own?

English Setters cost approximately $3,610/year to maintain — above the US national average of around $2,600/year for dog ownership. Over their 12-year lifespan, total costs come to around $45,305.

How much does a puppy English Setter cost?

A English Setter puppy from a reputable breeder typically costs $375. Rescue or shelter adoption fees are usually $150–$400 and often include initial vaccinations and desexing. Remember the purchase price is just one part of the first-year cost of $5,595.