This is the race that Italian and European hunters love the most. The number of inscription in the “libro delle origini” (records of studs, biches and litters) keeps on growing and in the last few years there have been about 20000 inscriptions. Setters are the most numerous among hunting races.

The English Setter is always present in competitions and exhibitions, but it is at work that he distinguishes himself by his matchless particular style, catlike and determined at the same time.

The English Setter is not only a versatile gun dog, but also a loving companion with sweet eyes and a wonderful silky coat.

(Giancarlo MANCINI)

 

POINTER

 

This is a great dog who would never stoop to do unworthy jobs. He is the hero in the tracking and scenting trials, in open spaces that remind him of his country. His gallop speed is typical of his nature. When he sets with his head up, his body stretched and stiff and his eyes glittering he is the symbol of the setter

 

(Giancarlo MANCINI)

 

EPAGNEUL BRETON

 

This gay quick little dog – which is the French national dog –has won the heart of many Italians. He is appreciated in the rest of Europe as well, especially where partridges are still present. The Epagneul Breton is a natural-born hunter: he is a setter by instinct and an excellent retriever and he faces all kind of grounds with equal dash and eagerness.

(Giancarlo MANCINI)

 

LABRADOR RETRIEVER

 

Together with other races belonging to the same group (Golden, Curly Coated and Flat Coated) but less known in Italy (except for the Golden, which has recently increased in number), the Labrador was created especially to be a perfect retriever with a style that distinguishes him from the setters.

This race is specific for great beatings where you need classic retriever style.

The Labrador stands at his master’s side during the beating, both while the latter is moving or while he is waiting for the beaters to drive out the game; he follows attentively the fall of the shot birds and when he is told he fetches the game and stands with the prey in his mouth to give it to his master.

These dogs are able to sit still and watch even if there are several shot birds.

The Labrador may have a tracking and scenting instinct as well, since he is a strong and vital dog who does not fear any wood or field and he can also swim very well.

His peaceful nature and his intelligence as well as his cleanness make him the ideal dog for families and children.

He is being used as a truffle dog and he seems to be very good at this.

The coat (short and with thick down) can be black or yellow, but it is always even tint and never white spotted or dotted.