How much does a English Setter puppy cost?

English Setter puppies sit in the $1,200 to $3,000 range for solid reasons, and you’re not just paying for those elegant feathered legs. These dogs aren’t churned out in high volume—they’re ranked 94 in popularity, which means fewer breeders, tighter supply, and more careful matching of homes. Reputable breeders invest heavily in health testing because English Setters come with known risks: hip and elbow dysplasia, congenital deafness, and hypothyroidism. A responsible breeder will screen breeding adults with OFA or PennHIP evaluations, BAER testing for hearing, and thyroid panels—costs that easily run over $500 per dog and get passed on to you. They also typically wait until dogs are mature (2+ years) to breed, limiting litters and increasing overhead. You won’t find many English Setters in pet stores or from backyard breeders, but if you do see a puppy under $1,000, be wary. That price likely means skipped health tests, poor breeding conditions, or a mix of unknown origin. Low cost here often means high future vet bills. What you’re really paying for is transparency, genetic diligence, and a breeder who’s more focused on placements than profit. You’ll spend more upfront but save heartache—and money—down the road.