The English setter is a medium-sized gun dog breed that originated in England. They were developed to “set” or point upland game birds like quail, pheasant, and grouse for hunters. English setters come in a variety of coat colors and patterns, two of which are the orange belton and lemon belton varieties.
The word “belton” refers to a specific white, tan, and black speckled coat pattern in setters and other hunting dog breeds. Belton coats feature large tan or orange patches over a white base coat with black ticking or flecking. While very similar, orange belton and lemon belton English setters have some subtle differences in their coat colors and markings.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the characteristics of the orange belton and lemon belton coat varieties in English setters. We will compare and contrast their coloring, markings, genetics, rarity, and origins. Whether you are looking to purchase an English setter puppy or just want to learn more about this sporting breed, understanding the nuances between these two belton coat types can be helpful.
Coat Colors in English Setters
English setters come in a range of base coat colors and patterns. The main coat color varieties include:
- White – Solid white coat.
- Black – Solid black coat.
- Blue belton – Black and white speckled coat with tan markings.
- Orange belton – White coat with large orange patches and black ticking.
- Lemon belton – White coat with pale lemon patches and black ticking.
- Tricolor – Black, white, and tan coat. Usually white base with large black patches and tan markings.
- Chestnut belton – White base with chestnut brown patches.
The belton pattern, which includes orange, lemon, blue, and chestnut belton, is a defining characteristic of the breed. Let’s take a closer look at the differences between orange belton and lemon belton specifically.
Orange Belton Coat
The orange belton English setter has a white base coat with large, rich orange-red patches. The orange patches can range from a light orange or peach color to a dark, reddish-orange. While the amount of orange can vary from dog to dog, the orange belton typically has more extensive orange markings than the lemon belton variety.
On the white areas, orange belton English setters will have small black flecks or ticking. The flecking is usually concentrated around the edges of the orange patches. Many orange beltons also have black flecks on the orange portions, giving them a speckled or belton appearance over their whole body.
Orange belton English setters often have black noses and eye rims, adding more contrast to their colorful coats. Their ears may also feature black edging. Some other typical traits of the orange belton coat variety include:
- Broad orange patches on cheeks, above eyes, sides of neck, chest, sides of body, and base of tail
- Faint orange eyebrows
- Black flecking on white areas and sometimes on orange patches
- Darker orange shading along back and sides
- Black nose, eye rims, and ear edges
Lemon Belton Coat
Like the orange belton, the lemon belton English setter has a predominantly white base coat. However, instead of rich orange markings, the lemon belton is characterized by pale lemon-colored patches.
The lemon markings can range from a very pale creamy yellow to a light gold. While orange belton setters have a reddish tint to their markings, the lemon belton’s patches lack reddish or russet hues. The lemon coloring is diluted compared to the deeper, brighter orange shades.
As with orange beltons, the lemon belton variety also has black flecking on the white areas. Though lemon beltons tend to have less flecking overall compared to orange beltons. Their noses and eye rims may be liver brown rather than black.
Some typical traits of the lemon belton English setter include:
- Pale lemon patches on cheeks, over eyes, sides of neck, chest, sides, and tail base
- Very light lemon eyebrows
- Minimal black flecking on white areas
- Liver brown nose, eye rims, and ear edges
Comparing Orange and Lemon Markings
When viewed side-by-side, the differences between the orange and lemon belton patterns becomes quite apparent. The lemon belton has washed-out, pale lemon markings compared to the rich, vivid orange patches of the orange belton.
The orange belton typically has more extensive patches of color than the lemon variety. The orange markings often cover the cheeks, eyes, ears, neck, sides of the body, underside, and legs. Lemon beltons usually have sparser, fainter lemon patches concentrated on the cheeks, over the eyes, sides of neck and body.
While both have black ticking on white areas, the flecking is often heaviest around the bright orange patches in orange beltons. Lemon beltons tend to have very minimal ticking overall. See the table below summarizing the main differences in the colors and markings:
| Coat Trait | Orange Belton | Lemon Belton |
|---|---|---|
| Patch color | Rich orange-red | Pale lemon-yellow |
| Patch coverage | Broad patches | Sparse, faint patches |
| Black flecking | Heavy ticking on white areas | Minimal ticking |
| Nose and eye rims | Black | Liver brown |
Genetics Behind Orange and Lemon
The specific genes that produce the orange and lemon belton patterns in English setters are not fully understood. However, the general genetic mechanisms that give rise to these coat colors are known. Like many coat traits in dogs, the base colors and markings are likely determined by several genes working together.
The orange/red and lemon/yellow pigment in belton setters is produced by phaeomelanin. This is the same red or yellow pigment that produces coats like yellow Labs, Irish setters, golden retrievers, and yellow-colored breeds.
The intensity or concentration of phaeomelanin produces different shades ranging from pale creamy yellow (lemon belton), to rich fox red (orange belton). The exact genetic mutation that dilutes phaeomelanin in lemon beltons is not known, but may involve the melanistic mask allele.
The amount of white versus colored patches, as well as the distribution of ticking, is likely related to the “spotting” gene known as S. Variations in this gene can produce different belton patterns. Selective breeding has helped produce setters with the desired belton coat traits.
Origins of the Belton Pattern
The original English setters from the 19th century were mostly white dogs with black, lemon, orange, or liver belton markings. The exact origins of the belton pattern are unknown. Some theories suggest it came from spaniel or hound ancestry, while others believe it arose from ancient setter stock.
In early English setters, the lemon and orange colors were not always well-differentiated. The original belton setters likely had a mix of pale lemon and richer orange patches. Through selective breeding, the orange and lemon variations were refined into more uniform patterns.
Today, the belton coat remains a hallmark of the English setter breed. All belton variants are allowed by the AKC breed standard. However, the lemon and orange patterns are especially preferred for their beauty and close ties to setter history.
Rarity of Orange and Lemon Belton Setters
Among belton English setters, the blue belton variety is the most common. Next most popular are tricolor setters. Orange belton and lemon belton setters are comparably less common than other belton types.
However, thanks to sustained breeding efforts, both orange and lemon belton English setters can be readily found through reputable breeders. They are not considered rare or exceedingly uncommon. They simply aren’t the predominant belton patterns seen at dog shows and in the general setter population.
If interested in an orange or lemon belton, be prepared to be patient and selective when searching for breeders. Work with a breeder that health tests their setters and focuses on maintaining the lovely orange and lemon belton traits in their breeding program.
registry trends for orange and lemon belton English Setters
Registry data provides some insights into the comparative popularity of different English setter coat varieties, including orange and lemon belton. Let’s look at registration statistics from the American Kennel Club (AKC).
| Coat Variety | AKC Registrations in 2020 |
|---|---|
| Orange belton | 120 |
| Lemon belton | 78 |
| Blue belton | 631 |
| Tricolor | 417 |
As seen above, the blue belton and tricolor English setters are registered in the hundreds annually, while the orange and lemon varieties number in the dozens. So among belton patterns, orange and especially lemon are less common based on registration frequency.
That said, those dozens of orange and lemon pups still represent a fair number of these handsome setters produced each year by dedicated breeders. There are enough active breeders working with the colors that interested owners should still have options when seeking one of these eye-catching setters.
Temperament Differences
When it comes to temperament, there are no significant differences between orange belton, lemon belton, or any other color varieties of the English setter. Their personality and working style is based more on bloodlines and training rather than coat color.
Well-bred English setters of all colors have a similar temperament profile. They are energetic, affectionate, intelligent, and relatively easy to train. Setters are birdy and will benefit from opportunities to run off-leash regularly. They make loyal companions and working gundogs.
Reputable breeders will focus on breeding sound, stable temperaments along with belton coat patterns. Be sure to meet both parents when selecting an orange or lemon belton puppy so you can evaluate their demeanor.
Grooming and Care
Orange and lemon belton English setters have similar grooming requirements as their belton and tricolor counterparts. Their medium-length, feathered coats require:
- Weekly brushing to control shedding and keep coat free of mats
- Bathing every 1-2 months or when dirty
- Trimming of feathering on ears, belly, tail, and legs occasionally for a neat appearance
- Monthly nail trimming or as needed
- Teeth brushing 2-3 times a week
- Cleaning and drying of ears weekly to prevent infections
Their grooming routine can generally be managed at home with some practice and patience. Occasional professional grooming can help keep their coat looking its best.
Aside from coat care, be sure to provide your orange or lemon belton setter with 45-60 minutes of daily exercise. A securely fenced yard is ideal so they can run freely. These active gundogs need mental stimulation and playtime as well. With their exercise needs met, they should adapt readily to life as both hunter and house pet.
Potential Health Issues
In terms of health, responsible orange and lemon belton English setter breeders will screen breeding stock for issues like:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Eye diseases like progressive retinal atrophy
- Hypothyroidism
- Deafness
- Epilepsy
A good breeder will provide health clearances for both parents. While energetic, English setters have an average lifespan of 10-12 years. Buying from health-tested lines can help ensure your orange or lemon belton enjoys good health into their senior years.
Finding an Orange or Lemon Belton Breeder
Locating a quality breeder of orange or lemon belton English setters requires patience and care. Be sure to find reputable breeders that:
- Are members and recommended by the English Setter Association of America
- Actively compete with their dogs in conformation, field trials, or hunt tests
- Perform all recommended breed health testing on their breeding dogs
- Carefully screen potential buyers and stand behind their puppies
- Focus on breed preservation, not just breeding trendy belton patterns
Avoid breeders who seem profit-driven, don’t ask you any questions, or breed numerous litters annually. Finding the right breeder match can provide a happy, healthy orange or lemon belton English setter to enjoy for years.
Conclusion
Orange and lemon belton represent two attractive and historically significant color patterns in the English setter breed. While quite similar, the deep reddish-orange patches of the orange belton and pale lemon markings of the lemon belton provide distinct variations on the belton theme.
Both compliment the breed’s elegant, medium-sized frame and flowing feathered coat. For hunters or families seeking a Loyal, lively gundog and companion, these handsome belton setters can be the perfect choice. By selecting health-tested breeder lines, owners can be rewarded with a belton best friend with looks, ability, and longevity.
