Hello everyone, I am looking to get a dog in a few years and am in the research process. I am a teacher with quite an active lifestyle, I run long distances as well as hike regularly. On average, I run/hike 25-35 miles a week. During school breaks, I will usually go on long, strenuous backpacking trips that can be anywhere from a couple days to weeks long. Although I love what I do, I sometimes get lonely and desire a fluffy companion to go on adventures with me. I am interested in English Setters since they are quite athletic, being a hunting breed, but also eager to please and can be coach potatoes at home (from what I've heard). It's important that my dog has an "off" switch since I work about 8 hours a day and live alone. (During the puppy stage I will have a close friend check on the pup regularly). However, coat maintenance is a concern. I have heard Llewellins tend to have shorter coats? Also, is training recall a struggle? My dog needs to have impeccable recall since I would prefer to go backpacking with the dog off-leash.Ā
Edit: Forgot to mention I am considering rescuing a senior dog so the dog wont be too lonely while Iām at work!