English Springer Spaniels are the oldest and well-established hunting and gun dogs. They are easy to train and quite affectionate. Make great show dogs, field dogs or family pets. English Springer Spaniels like to be around people and are very playful. Leaving these dogs alone for prolonged periods may lead to behavior problems. They also love water as well as playing in water and mud. They sometimes need some gentle but firm discipline during the “adolescent” years. There are two types of English Springer Spaniels – field and bench. Field dogs are bred for hunting and field trial work while bench dogs are bred for showing.
The origins of English Springer Spaniels date back to the Renaissance times when they were considered ideal hunting dogs and companions. Their popularity in the United States began around 1700 or so. English Springer Spaniels gets their name from the method they use to flush out game. These dogs spring forward to scare birds out of hiding. They are great with hunting, tracking, retrieving and even performing tricks.
The average height for English Springer Spaniels is 18-20 inches and their average weight is about 40-55 pounds. The coloring pattern of English Springer Spaniels is liver and white or black and white. Some have tan markings. English Springer Spaniels have a close coat that is straight and smooth but not course. English Springer Spaniels have compact and well-proportioned bodies. They have long, fur covered ears and their
tails are docked.
These dogs make good family pets, filed sport dogs, and watchdogs. They are friendly, intelligent, lively, and loyal. They are good with children however they should be supervised at all times when around infants. They may tend to be aggressive around other dogs but are typically good with other animals. It is recommended that English Springer Spaniels be properly socialized beginning at an early age.
Caring for English Springer Spaniels is not too time consuming or labor intensive. It is important to give the dog weekly brushings with a stiff bristle brush. Longer coats will mat if not properly maintained and particular attention should be given to the ears and feet. Bathing or dry shampooing should only be none when necessary. Keep hair shaved or trimmed from the under side of the ears to prevent infections. The hair on the feet should also be kept short and trimmed to prevent burrs from becoming imbedded into the pads. Professional grooming should be used twice a year.
English Springer Spaniels need periods of activity each day such as long walks and open playing without a leash. Running and romping provide much needed exercise for these dogs. A home with a backyard is best for English Springer Spaniels and it is not recommended that those living in small apartments get these dogs. Owners need to be able to spend time with these dogs and exercise them daily. English Springer Spaniels also love to swim and retrieve.
English Springer Spaniels are typically healthy dogs that live happy lives that average about 10-14 years on average. Health issues for these dogs include hip dysplasia, eye disorders, blood disorders and ear infections. There are rare personality disorders like “Rage Syndrome” that can which is a form of epilepsy that is treatable. It is best to check with the breeder about a dog’s bloodline to see if there is a history of this condition before purchasing a family pet. Some dogs have a tendency to become overweight as well.
