English Springer Spaniel

• Breed Origin: England. The original spaniels began to appear as early as the 1600′s. Springer Spaniels and Cocker Spaniels were once considered the same breed until the 1800′s. England started to divide the dogs into two groups. The Cocker Spaniels were considered under 25 lbs and used for woodcock, and the English Springers were considered about 45 lbs. Their purpose was to “spring” a game bird into the air, and a hawk would retrieve it. This was before guns were used. Today’s springer spaniel’s flush and retrieve their game. In the mid twentieth century, the English Springer Spaniel started to divide into two groups, the field and show bred dog, while still being considered the same breed.

• Coat Colors: Black & White, Red & White, Tri-color, Lemon & White, Liver & White, Orange & White

• Description: The English Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized sporting dog with a compact, well-proportioned body and usually has an unnaturally docked tail. In countries where docking is illegal, the tail is of medium length. They are one of the largest of the Spaniels. Their coat is moderately long and glossy with feathering on their legs, ears and chest. They have long legs, so having the name Springer is for good reason. They have long dropped ears that can sometimes get debris and other substances stuck within their hanging locks. Handsome, elegant and robust, they excel in the field by flushing out game. They are of even temper and intelligent. Springers remain loyal to their masters, retrieving prey with eagerness, anticipation and a passion to please. Although beautiful in appearance, the Springer Spaniel is no choice for a person who values a clean house; they enjoy a good old shake inside the house when they are wet. The Springer Spaniel is active well into his older years, and is always outgoing and entertaining. They are enthusiastic and easygoing for adults, but may be too excitable for young children. They are friendly and fun with family and friends. English Springer Spaniels make an excellent family companion as well as a good working dog. They must have human companionship and the freedom to exercise regularly.
  

• Exercise Requirements: Because English Springer Spaniels are predominantly hunting dogs, they will require a lot of exercise, and it is advisable to keep them on a leash in unfenced areas as they may just decide to go hunting on their own. Because English Springer Spaniels are such good athletes, many non-hunting owners participate in activities such as obedience, agility, flyball, and tracking with their English Springer Spaniels. They also make great therapy dogs, bringing smiles to people in hospitals and nursing homes. Springer Spaniels have unlimited stamina and will need as much as 2 hours of exercise per day, to keep them fit, healthy and out of trouble.

• Grooming: Regular grooming of the English Springer Spaniel coat with a stiff bristle brush is recommended, bathing only when necessary. Occasional trimming of ears and pads of the feet. It is recommended they receive professional grooming once or twice a year. It is important to check for dirt and debris that may have gotten lodged in the ears and between the toes, as the ears may be prone to infection.

• Hereditary Disorders: English Springer Spaniels are not troubled in general by serious health problems, other than some of the usual canine illnesses and infectious diseases that can affect the canine population. There are some genetic based disorders found in the English Springer Spaniels include:
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Retinal Dysplasia
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Epilepsy.
  • Rage Syndrome - English Springer Spaniels are also susceptible to this rare disorder called Rage Syndrome. The syndrome is a form of epilepsy causing a dog to viciously attack without reason or warning. It can be treated and is a medical condition, not a temperament problem. Before purchasing or adopting an English Springer Spaniel, potential owners should ask about a history of rage syndrome in the blood line.
  • English Springer Spaniels also have a tendency to gain weight easily, so it is very important not to overfeed.
  • Dogs such as the English Springer Spaniel with longer hair on the under side of their ears are prone to chronic ear infections. They should be kept free from excess hair and checked often for any signs of infection.

• Height: Female: 18 - 20 inches (46 - 51 cm), Male: 19 - 22 inches (48 - 56 cm)

• Hypoallergenic: No

• Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years

• Living Area Requirements: English Springer Spaniels enjoy living in the house with a fenced in backyard. These dogs do not do well in small apartments or with people who live a sedentary life. Although the apartment would not be the best choice, the Springer Spaniel is very adaptable and would do okay if given the required amount of exercise. The best owners for this breed would be an active family or individual living in the country or suburban environment.

• Temperament: Active, Affectionate, Attentive, Intelligent, Alert and Cheerful. The typical English Springer Spaniel is a delightful, joyous and eager to please dog. English Springer Spaniels are usually friendly, sociable, playful, and gentle, making them an excellent family orientated dog. They are of high intelligence and learn very quickly. Springer Spaniels typically love children, but this dog should be properly socialized with children from puppy hood as with any breed will not act predictably or typically around them. Puppies should be handled by children from birth. English Springer Spaniels are comical and very entertaining dogs. They are known to delight their owners during playtime. They can be a bit messy, tracking dirt and water throughout the house, but their smiling faces and constantly wagging tails makes staying mad at a Springer Spaniel near impossible.

• Weight: Female: 18 - 22 kg, Male: 20 - 25 kg