Is the English Springer Spaniel the Right Dog Breed for You?
The English springer spaniel was bred as a gun dog and hunting companion, but it is also a revered family dog with an affectionate nature. Enthusiastic and always up for a run, this high-energy dog is ideal for active owners. Learn all you need to know about this breed here.
Breed Snapshot:
- Size: Weight: 18-27kg. Height: 46-51cm
- Coat: Low-shedding, course short-haired coat appearing in colors such as black and white or liver and white
- Energy: High energy. They need about 30-60 minutes of exercise per day
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Country of Origin: UK
- Breed Type: Spaniel
- Other Names: Springer
- Great Breed for: Homes with large fenced yards, families with kids
What Is an English Springer Spaniel?
Named for the way it ‘springs’ after prey, the English springer spaniel is a smart, energetic breed of dog that likely dates to 15th century England. Throughout the course of their history, these dogs accompanied their owners on hunts, flushing out prey and chasing down small animals to capture. These dogs are highly trainable and intelligent–capable of learning many commands, particularly those associated with hunting.
As an active dog, the English springer spaniel loves to run and engage in playful activity. It is a people-oriented dog and will likely be companionable for all members of its household. These dogs respond well to positive reinforcement training–and the earlier the better, as their high energy can lead them into mischief if they aren’t provided with a firm set of ground rules.
What Do English Springer Spaniels Look Like?
English springer spaniels are medium-sized dogs. They boast a sturdy, compact body and short-haired coat, appearing in black and white or liver and white with tan markings. These dogs have long floppy wavy-haired ears that are similar in appearance to the cocker spaniel’s ears.
What Makes the English Springer Spaniel Special?
This dog’s affectionate people-pleasing nature and high energy make the English springer spaniel a popular pet with active owners who enjoy running, hunting, or spending time outdoors. This breed is not ideal for apartment life, and thrives on exercise. It needs a spacious fenced-in backyard and an owner who is committed to providing it with some training.
How Often Do I Need to Groom My English Springer Spaniel?
Owners should brush their English springer spaniel two to three times per week to remove any loose hair. Be sure to check the ears periodically for signs of infection, as most dogs with long, floppy ears are prone to ear infections. Ideally, you should have this dog groomed professionally every three months.
How Often Should I Walk My English Springer Spaniel?
English springer spaniels thrive on activity. The more exercise you can give then, the better for them–and you. They can get into mischief if their exercise needs aren’t met. You should plan to provide this dog with two 20-30 minute walks daily or allow it to run and play in your fenced-in yard.
How Do I Train My English Springer Spaniel?
English springer spaniels are intelligent and trainable using positive reinforcement training. Pet Cloud features dog training classes in blocks of six-week, one-hour sessions with registered trainers. An experienced trainer will visit your home and use positive reinforcement techniques as recommended by the RSPCA to teach your English springer spaniel puppy.
Quickfire English Springer Spaniel Questions:
Can I leave my English springer spaniel alone during the day?
English springer spaniels do poorly when left alone. These dogs need human companionship or could develop separation anxiety. This breed does best in a household where at least one of its human owners is usually around.
Are English springer spaniels barkers?
These dogs are not known to be problematic barkers, but aren’t shy about voicing their ‘concerns’ either. If your dog shows a tendency to bark excessively, talk to your trainer about learning some silence commands.
Are English springer spaniels prone to health risks I should know about?
Like many dogs, the English springer spaniel is associated with certain health conditions. These include: ear infection, hip dysplasia, entropion, skin disorders, progressive renal atrophy, and PFK.
Where can I get an English springer spaniel?
If you want to rescue or adopt an English springer spaniel, check with your local rescue agencies. You may be able to find a dog who simply needs the right companion and living situation in order to thrive. With the right setting and owners who can supply its training and exercise needs, this breed is very likely to do well. Check out the RSPCA’s adoption guide to see if this is the ideal solution for you. If you want to purchase your English springer spaniel from a reputable breeder, use this helpful guide for finding the right breeder from the RSPCA.
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