SPRINGER SPANIEL

Temperament: Friendly, Playful, Obedient

AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 27 of 196

Height: 20 inches (male), 19 inches (female)

Weight: 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 12-14 years

Group: Sporting Group

ABOUT THE ENGLISH SPRINGER SPANIEL

The English Springer Spaniel dog breed was developed as a gun dog to flush, or spring, game in the field, but they’re also popular companions. The English Springer Spaniel, named for the way he “springs” at game to flush it for the hunter, has long been a favorite with sportsmen, but this lively, beautiful dog also makes a wonderful family companion if he receives the training and exercise he needs.

Athletic and versatile, they’ve been known to participate in agility, hunt tests, tracking, obedience trials and more, and they’re great pals to have along when you go hiking or camping. You’d have a hard time finding a more affectionate furry family member, but this pup definitely needs room to run. Apartment dwellers beware!

PERSONALITY

The typical Springer is friendly, eager to please, quick to learn, and willing to obey. He should never be aggressive or timid. In recent years there have been reports of aggression or excessive timidity in the breed, as well as excessive separation anxiety. These traits aren’t desirable and could be an indication of poor breeding.

Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Choose the middle-of-the-road puppy, not the one who’s beating up his littermates or the one who’s hiding in the corner.

NUTRITION

Feed the Springer a high-quality dog food appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior) and activity level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Give table scraps sparingly, if at all, especially avoiding cooked bones and foods with overly high fat content. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet.

HEALTH

Not all Springers will get any or all of these diseases, but it’s important to be aware of them if you’re considering this breed.

Hip Dysplasia

Retinal Dysplasia

Entropion

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Skin Disorders

Ear Infections

Phosphofructokinase

CARE

While they are happiest living indoors with their human family, English Springer Spaniels enjoy outdoor activities and make great companions on long walks or hikes. With proper exercise the breed can be suitable for owners living in a small house or apartment, although a home having a large, fenced yard where the dog can run or engage in play-sessions with his people is probably ideal. Daily exercise will help keep the Springer healthy and happy. This can come in the form of long walks and play sessions. The breed also exercises mind and body by participating in obedience, tracking, agility, rally, and other activities that can be enjoyed by dog and owner.

GROOMING

English Springer Spaniels have a double coat, which means that they have an insulating undercoat that’s covered with a topcoat, in much the same way that you might layer a sweater and a coat for warmth.

Brush your Springer at least three times a week to keep him looking his best and to avoid mats, or tangles. Springers shed moderately all year long, and regular brushing will also help keep loose hair off your clothes and furniture. You may also want to trim around the head, neck, ears, tail, and feet, just to give your Springer a neater appearance. Many English Springer Spaniel owners take their dogs to a professional groomer every two to three months for trimming.

Source: dogtime, akc.