The English has a gentle and endearing character. They are calm and friendly, good with children and very affectionate. They are active and exuberant outside but relaxed and fairly inactive indoors. English Setters love to dig and roam, and are good at jumping. They are very sensitive dogs who do not respond well to harsh training or discipline, but can be willful if they sense they are more strong minded than their owners. These dogs need structure and should be treated with an air of natural authority. An inexperienced owner, or one who is unsure they would be able to assert their authority should choose a more submissive pup. English Setters enjoy the company of other dogs.  They are energetic and need lots of daily exercise and mental stimulation. They can become nuisance barkers if they are bored. This breed makes a lovely companion.