English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a versatile dog, praised for its intelligence, energy, and affectionate nature. Originally bred as a hunting dog, the breed is known for its unique gait and smooth movements. They are suitable for various activities such as hunting, sports, dog shows, and companionship.

The main physical characteristics of the English Springer Spaniel

Size and weight: 48–51 cm tall, 18–23 kg.
Coat and colors: Dense, straight, weather-resistant coat. Colors include liver and white, black and white, or with tan markings. Show types often have a thicker and longer coat with more feathering than Springer Spaniels bred for hunting.
Ears and tail: Lobular, feathered ears. Tail set low and lively.
Body structure: Strong, well-muscled, and balanced.

The history of the English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is known as one of the oldest British spaniel breeds, possibly originating in Spain (the name Spaniel is derived from Spain). Originally, they were used to flush and retrieve game. The name "Springer Spaniel" comes from their hunting style: they 'spring' birds from the tall grass, allowing the hunter to shoot them, after which the Springer retrieves the game.

Until the 20th century, Springers and Cocker Spaniels were considered one breed, with size determining whether a dog was classified as a Springer or a Cocker. Through selective breeding of larger or smaller individuals, two distinct breeds eventually emerged. The Springer Spaniel is also popular with celebrities – both George W. Bush and Oprah Winfrey had an English Springer!

The character of the English Springer Spaniel

Springer Spaniels are intelligent, lively, and affectionate. They are social, easily adapt to various situations, and are good with children. As with any dog, supervision around young children is essential. Children should also learn to treat the dog respectfully. Due to their intelligence and drive, it is important that English Springer Spaniels get enough physical exercise and mental stimulation. A bored Springer may become frustrated and exhibit unwanted behavior.
English Springers thrive best when part of the family and may feel lonely if left alone for long periods.

Care of the English Springer Spaniel

To keep your companion in top condition, proper care is essential.

Skin and coat care of the English Springer Spaniel

Weekly brushing helps remove dirt and loose hair and keeps the coat healthy, shiny, and tangle-free. After swimming in dirty or salt water, rinsing with clean water is recommended, optionally using a special dog shampoo like Douxo Care.

Regularly check your Springer’s hanging ears. They should be clean, pink, and odor-free. Use a caring ear cleaner like CleanAural Sensitive if your dog is prone to ear infections (consult your vet).

As with all breeds, nails should be checked and trimmed regularly – overly long nails can be painful and cause issues when walking or running. Use this handy nail clipper for trimming.

True outdoor dogs

English Springer Spaniels love exploring bushes, fields, and ditches. This lifestyle comes with certain risks. Ensure your dog is properly vaccinated, including against leptospirosis (also known as “rat disease”). Deworm at least four times a year. For avid hunters or those living in areas with fox tapeworm or heartworm, monthly deworming with products like Milbenin is recommended.
Ticks can hide well in the Springer’s long coat. Effective tick prevention is crucial and can be done with a spot-on like Vectra 3D or a tick collar. If your dog swims a lot, a tablet like Adtab may be more suitable.

The joints of the English Springer Spaniel

Joint issues like elbow and hip dysplasia are common in English Springer Spaniels. Arthrosis is one of the most seen age-related conditions. To help maintain joint health, consider:

Preventing overweight.
Gradually building up exercise for puppies and avoiding overexertion.
Regular, straight-line movement is ideal – avoid harsh braking and twisting. Swimming is excellent, but climbing steep ditch banks repeatedly is less ideal.
Supplements with fish oil, undenatured collagen like Flexadin Advanced, or devil’s claw such as Iso-Joint +Acute can greatly support your dog’s mobility.
A special joint-supporting diet also helps maintain mobility.

Exercise and training

These active dogs need lots of daily exercise, such as long walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. Early socialization and training are essential to avoid unwanted behavior. Their intelligence makes them very trainable. Springer Spaniels respond best to consistent, gentle training.

Avoid overloading young dogs with intensive activities like prolonged running or jumping. Swimming is perfect for building muscle and fitness. Walking and cycling (in moderate temperatures) are also good activities.

English Springer Spaniels enjoy working with their owner in obedience, agility, tracking, and retrieving. Regular mental stimulation is essential to prevent boredom. Toys that trigger their hunting instinct, such as the Trixie Latex Duck, are very popular!

With enough attention, exercise, mental challenges, proper care – and of course, lots of love – the English Springer Spaniel is a lifelong companion!

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