Home » Meet The Breeds » English Springer Spaniel Dog Breed
The English Springer Spaniel is renowned for its agility, intelligence, and affable demeanor. Traditionally used as a working gundog, this outgoing and attractive breed has since won the hearts of many as a beloved family companion. With an eager-to-please personality and a love for outdoor activities, the “Springer” has continued to gain popularity among hunting enthusiasts and urban dwellers alike.
Sporting
19 – 20 Inches
40 – 50 Pounds
12 – 14 Years
Country of Origin | England |
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Bred For | Flushing & Retrieving Birds, Companionship |
Known For | Gentle Expression, Long Ears, Wagging Tail, Friendliness |
Popularity | High |
Temperament | Active, Friendly, Playful, Outgoing |
Activities | Hunting, Running, Hiking, Swimming, Search and Rescue, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports |
The English Springer Spaniel boasts a rich history that stretches back to the 19th century and the advent of dog shows and field trials. Known for its exceptional flushing and retrieving skills, the breed’s origins are deeply rooted in the British Isles.
The name “spaniel” is believed to have derived from the Spanish word “Espanol,” indicating that these dogs could have a Spanish connection. However, it was in England that they were refined and developed into the breeds that are recognized today. Historical records, including art and literature from the Renaissance, depict dogs that closely resemble today’s English Springer Spaniel.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, spaniels in England were primarily categorized based on their size and hunting functions. The larger ones, adept at flushing game out of dense vegetation, were termed “springers” because of their ability to “spring” game for the falcon or nets. As individual breeds began to emerge, selective breeding started to focus on specific traits, leading to the distinction between the English Springer Spaniel and its close cousins, the Field Spaniels and Cocker Spaniels.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked significant milestones for the Springer. In 1902, The Royal Kennel Club in the UK distinguished it as a separate breed. Recognition soon crossed the Atlantic, with the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially acknowledging the breed in 1910.
Through subsequent years, in both the field and in the show ring, the Springer has garnered considerable acclaim. The breeds’ versatility and endearing temperament have solidified its reputation as both a exceptional gun dogs and an extraordinary show dog.
Today, the English Springer Spaniel enjoys widespread admiration, reflecting its innate abilities and its outgoing disposition. Whether in a show ring, a suburban backyard, or a country estate, the breed’s legacy lives on.
Adult male English Springer Spaniels ideally stand 20 inches tall at the shoulder, while mature females tend to be slightly smaller, measuring around 19 inches in height.
In terms of weight, males average about 50 pounds, with females weighing closer to 40 pounds.
The English Springer Spaniel presents a balanced and useful form. Medium-sized and sturdy, this breed is robust without appearing bulky. In profile, the Springer’s back is level from the withers to a slightly sloping croup. The body, when measured from the shoulder to the buttocks, is a bit longer than the dog’s height at the withers. This proportionality ensures the breed’s agility and fluid movement, reflective of its working origins as a top-flight bird dog.
Texture: The English Springer Spaniel boasts a double coat that provides insulation and protection on land and in water. It is medium in length, flat or wavy, and lies close to the body. Its texture is neither too coarse nor too silky. The hair is short and fine on the head, on the front of the forelegs, and on the front of the rear legs below the hocks. The ears, chest, belly, and legs are feathered with longer fringe. The coat is typically trimmed, but it should not be excessively stylized.
Standard Color | |
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Black & White | ee |
Black White & Tan | ee |
Liver & White | ee |
Liver White & Tan | ee |
White & Liver | ee |
White & Black | ee |
Red & White | ee |
Orange & White | ee |
Lemon & White | ee |
Standard Marking | |
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Ticked | ee |
Spotted | ee |
Roan | ee |
A Note About Color: Color may be black or liver with white markings; white with black or liver markings; blue or liver roan; or tricolor (black and white or liver and white with tan markings on the eyebrows and cheeks, inside the ears, and under the tail). Any areas of white may present ticking or spots. Red, Orange, and lemon are not acceptable colors in this spaniel breed.
The tail of the English Springer Spaniel is an embodiment of the breed’s lively spirit and eager character. It is set as an extension of the topline and is typically docked to prevent injury while working in thick brush. When the Springer is in motion, especially when working, the tail is carried horizontally, wagging rhythmically with each stride. The tail should not be carried upright or curled forwards, nor should it be clamped down tightly.
Contemporary views on tail docking vary, so it’s essential for owners of this breed to be aware of local regulations regarding the practice.
Whether docked or undocked, the Springer’s tail always exhibits the breed’s characteristic enthusiasm and exuberance, especially when these sporting spaniels are on the move or particularly excited.
Owning an English Springer Spaniel can be a delightful experience. Renowned for its cheerful disposition and boundless energy, these dogs bring joy to any household and easily fit it in as loyal companions. However, as with any dog, potential owners should be well-informed about the breed’s characteristics, needs, and potential challenges.
The English Springer Spaniel, when well cared for, is generally a healthy and robust breed. However, like all breeds and mixed breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions. It is crucial for owners to be proactive in their pet’s health, maintaining a regular veterinary schedule and being observant of any behavioral or physical changes.
Lifespan: On average, a well-cared-for Springer can live between 12 and 14 years, although many have been known to surpass this with proper care, lots of love, and a bit of luck.
The English Springer Spaniel, like any dog, can have its share of health concerns. These include:
It is essential for English Springer Spaniel owners to have regular veterinary check-ups, ideally twice a year. These routine visits allow early detection of potential issues, ensuring timely treatment.
The English Springer Spaniel boasts a temperament that’s often described as affable and eager to please. The breed’s cheerful disposition allows these dogs to form strong bonds with their families and thrive on human interaction. These traits make them a suitable choice for first-time dog owners, as they’re accommodating and tend to respond positively to gentle guidance and training. Their sensitivity means they resonate best with positive reinforcement training methods; harsh treatment or scolding can potentially lead them to become timid and mistrustful.
Although they cherish their independence to a certain degree, Springers are not fans of solitude. Extended periods of being alone can trigger feelings of separation anxiety. As such, potential owners should be prepared to offer them consistent companionship or at least ensure they aren’t left isolated for long durations.
Socially, they typically get along splendidly with their canine counterparts. With proper socialization from a young age, most Springers become quite overjoyed around other dogs. Their gentle and playful demeanor also makes them ideal companions for children. However, as with any breed, interactions between dogs and young kids should always be supervised to guarantee the safety of both parties.
The English Springer Spaniel’s warm nature usually extends to strangers as well. While these dogs might approach unfamiliar faces with a hint of caution initially, with proper introductions, they’re often welcoming and friendly to the people they meet. In essence, the Springer, with its delightful personality and adaptable nature, can integrate smoothly into a variety of households, offering affection and joy in abundance.
The dietary needs and nutritional habits of the English Springer Spaniel play a pivotal role in ensuring the dog’s well-being and vitality. These dynamic canines require a balanced diet that complements their energy levels and supports their overall health.
For Springer Spaniel puppies, it’s essential to provide them with a high-quality puppy formula that meets the unique nutritional requirements of their growth phase. Puppies can grow rapidly, so their diet should account for their developing muscles, bones, and overall health. The portion size and feeding frequency can vary based on age, but generally, puppies are fed more often than adults to support their growth — typically three to four times a day.
Transitioning into adulthood, the nutritional needs of the Springer will change. Adult dogs require a balanced diet that offers a mix of proteins, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Proteins help to maintain muscle tone, while fats provide the necessary energy. The amount of food required can vary based on the dog’s activity level, age, and overall health. On average, an adult Springer Spaniel might consume between 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dog food daily, split into two meals. However, always consult a veterinarian or a pet nutritionist to determine the exact portion size suitable for the specific dog.
Overfeeding or underfeeding can have adverse effects on the health and longevity of an English Springer Spaniel. Monitoring their weight, ensuring they have a consistent feeding schedule, and adjusting portion sizes based on activity levels can contribute to the dog’s overall health and happiness.
English Springer Spaniels are renowned for their intelligence and willingness to please, traits that make them relatively straightforward to train. Their history as hunting dogs means they’re hardwired to respond well to tasks and commands, although their gentle nature means positive reinforcement methods work best.
Training should begin early, ideally during puppyhood. Socialization is a crucial component of any puppy’s training regime. Exposing Springer pups to various environments, people, and other animals helps to foster well-adjusted adult dogs that are comfortable in diverse settings. While they are generally eager to please their owners, it’s essential to maintain consistency in training sessions to reinforce learned behaviors and to prevent the development of unwanted habits.
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