English Springer Spaniel dog portrait

English Springer Spaniel

Tireless field worker, devoted family friend

Sporting group England Medium
Lifespan12-14 yr
Weight18-25 kg
Height48-56 cm
OriginEngland

The English Springer Spaniel is an energetic, affectionate gundog bred to flush and retrieve game in the field. Eager to please and highly trainable, it thrives as both a working partner and a lively family companion that needs plenty of daily activity.

Great points

  • Highly intelligent and easy to train
  • Affectionate and people-oriented
  • Great with children and other dogs
  • Versatile worker in field and sport

Things to consider

  • Needs lots of daily exercise
  • Coat requires regular grooming
  • Can develop separation anxiety if left alone
  • May chase birds and small animals

The story

Developed in England as a hunting spaniel, the breed earned its name from its job of springing, or flushing, game birds into the open for hunters. It was officially separated from the closely related Cocker Spaniel in the early 20th century based on size.

Training

Springers are quick learners that respond best to positive, reward-based methods and enjoy having a job to do. Early socialization and consistent training channel their energy and keep their busy minds engaged.

Grooming

The medium-length double coat needs brushing two or three times a week to prevent mats, with extra attention to the feathered ears, legs, and belly. Regular ear cleaning is important because the long, drooping ears can trap moisture.

Food & diet

Feed a quality diet portioned to the dog's age and high activity level. Monitor intake to prevent weight gain in less active or older dogs.

Exercise

Springers require at least an hour or more of vigorous exercise every day, including running, fetch, and scent or retrieving games. They excel at canine sports such as agility, flyball, and field trials.

Health to watch

Generally healthy but prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, ear infections, and certain eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy. Responsible breeders screen for hip and eye issues.

Fun fact. The breed name comes from its original task of springing, or flushing, birds from cover for hunters.

Frequently asked questions

Are English Springer Spaniels good family dogs?
Yes, they are gentle, affectionate, and patient with children, making them excellent family companions when given enough exercise and attention.
How much exercise does an English Springer Spaniel need?
They need at least an hour or more of vigorous daily activity, including running, fetch, and mentally engaging games, to stay happy and well behaved.
Do English Springer Spaniels shed a lot?
They are moderate shedders with a double coat that needs brushing two or three times a week to control loose hair and prevent matting.

Essential gear for the English Springer Spaniel

A few breed-right basics for a new English Springer Spaniel.

Crate

36" dog crate

Right-sized for a medium dog, cozy not cramped.

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Bed

Medium orthopedic bed

Joint support, sized to a medium frame.

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Grooming

Grooming brush

Regular brushing for a healthy coat.

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Food

Complete adult formula

Balanced everyday nutrition.

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