Although the term “dual” is most commonly used to imply the combination of hunting abilities and appearance, the true Dual Setter consists of three complementary parts.

The first part is hunting instinct and ability, best qualified as the “Gentleman’s Shooting Dog”. It has neither the hyperactivity of a field trial setter nor the bounce of a show setter. It is a partner in the field rather than a servant that obeys because he must. The handler should have no need for the constant use of a whistle or an electric collar. It is a gun dog with a constant awareness of the gunner’s location, the drive to be far enough out to effectively handle birds, and the pace to be able to hunt all day. Our benchmark is a Setter with the nose and brains to consistently handle Ruffed Grouse. The experience should lower, not raise, the handler’s blood pressure.

The second part of the Dual Setter is physical appearance and structure. A DeCoverly Setter is an elegant athlete. The structural components that create clean, efficient movement also create a beautiful animal. The fluid, agile athleticism at any pace should be apparent to any observer. The Setter must also have classic good looks at all times. The dog should turn heads in public.

The third part is personality and temperament. DeCoverly Setters are people oriented and have a great need to please. They are very affectionate without being demanding. They are extremely tolerant of people, other animals, and especially children of all ages. There should never be any hint of aggression. An adult DeCoverly Setter will be a calm, well-mannered, affectionate member of the family, and should not display any nervous activity or barking. The bonding between the Setter and the family should be very strong.

There is no need to compromise in any of these areas, and in fact they are complimentary. Pleasing appearance stemming from athletic structure makes for efficient endurance. The personality that wants to please in the home makes for a wonderful partnership in the field. When these qualities are combined in a Setter with drive, intelligence, nose and natural pointing instincts, it’s as good as it gets. It’s a timeless experience that lasts the lifetime of the dog.