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English Springer Spaniel -
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medium-sized sporting dog, with a compact body and a docked tail.
His coat is moderately long, with feathering on his legs, ears, chest, and brisket.
These dogs love water and often get wet and muddy and needs to release energy through regular exercise.
They are the oldest of the British sporting Spaniels except for the Clumber.
They are often referred to as merry, brave, sweet, cheerful and courageous. This is also a very affectionate breed overall. These dogs love everyone.
Usually they are very good with other pets (except birds), assuming they are thoroughly socialized at an early age.
His pendulous ears, soft gentle expression, sturdy build, and friendly wagging tail proclaim him unmistakably as a member of the ancient family of Spaniels.
They are, above all, a well-proportioned dog, nicely balanced in every way. Their overall carriage is proud and upstanding, their body deep, legs strong and muscular, with enough length to carry him through anything with ease.
The Springer Spaniel typically stands between 19 to 20 inches in height at the shoulder and weighs around 42 to 55 pounds.
See a Springer in action
Taken as a whole, the English Springer Spaniel suggests power, endurance, and agility. He looks the part of a dog that can go, and keep going, under difficult hunting conditions.
Springer Spaniels and Cocker Spaniels were not recognized as separate breeds until the 1800s. The Springer is just one of the many spaniel breeds currently recognized.
At their best, they are endowed with a certain style, symmetry, balance, and enthusiasm all their own, and is every inch a sporting dog of distinct Spaniel character. They easily combine beauty with utility. The typical Springer is friendly, eager to please, quick to learn, and willing to obey.
At their worst, problems with aggression do occur with this breed. Believe it or not, this is the breed with the highest incidence of euthanization because of aggression problems vented toward their owners.
Be forewarned, aggression problems almost always stem from an issue of possessiveness over their food, possibly a favorite toy, or possibly even a sleeping area. Now since you know this, do not give this aggression issue a chance to develop in your Springer. Handle your puppy's food dish, toys, and bed often while the puppy watches. Teach your puppy that having you handle his belongings is something to look forward to because he gets a treat or a play session and you'll be well on your way to stopping aggression problems before they begin.
Ideal home: The English Springer Spaniel needs a home with a fenced yard with a strong owner/leader. Obedience training should start as soon as you get your Springer puppy home because these dogs are smart and learn very quickly. Hunters would find this breed an excellent working companion. It is suggested that you never spoil this breed because of possible aggression problems.
Country of origin: England
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Colors: Liver and white, black and white, liver roan or blue
Known health problems: Hip dysplasia, obesity, PRA (eye problem), epilepsy, PFK (blood disorder)
Famous Springer Spaniels: Millie Bush, pet of former President George H. W. Bush
Return from English Springer Spaniel to Sporting Dog Group
