English Springer Spaniel
Summary
The English Springer Spaniel is one of the oldest British spaniels and one of the most versatile hunting dogs in its category. It is a high-performance flushing dog, capable of working in difficult terrain and retrieving downed game both on land and in water. The name "Springer" refers to its function of making birds "spring" from cover. It is equally appreciated as a companion dog for its cheerful and sociable character.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Medium
- Height (male)
- 51 cm
- Height (female)
- 48 cm
- Weight (male)
- 20–25 kg
- Weight (female)
- 18–23 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Medium, straight or slightly wavy, weather-resistant; with feathering on the ears, chest, legs, and belly
- Common Colors
- Liver and white, black and white, tricolor (black/liver, white, and tan); with or without ticking (spots)
Temperament & Personality
The English Springer Spaniel is an intelligent, obedient, and outgoing dog, with a genuinely friendly nature. It is affectionate with the family and sociable with strangers. It has considerable energy and requires adequate daily exercise. It is a breed that exists in two lines — "show" and "field" — the latter being substantially more active and with a more intense working instinct. Some specimens from certain lines may exhibit so-called "Springer Rage" (sudden and episodic aggression), although this is considered atypical.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60–90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Moderate to high
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–6 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Epilepsy
- Eye diseases (entropion, cataracts)
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
- Otitis
- PFK deficiency
- Recommended Health Tests
- Cardiac examination
- Eye examination
- Genetic test for PFK
- Hip and elbow radiography
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Excellent
- With Cats
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Acceptable
