English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a gun dog traditionally used for flushing and retrieving game. more...

Appearance

Like many breeds developed for specific work, in modern times the show dog lines have diverged from working dog lines, depending on which aspect of the dog the breeders have chosen to focus on.

Males in the show dog line average approximately 18 to 20 inches (45 to 50 cm) at the withers and weigh on average between 50 and 55 pounds (23 to 25 kg). Females are generally smaller, averaging closer to 40 pounds (18 kg). Dogs in the working dog line tend to be smaller and lighter boned.

Its coat comes in three different color combinations. Black-and-white, liver-and-white and either of these combinations with tan markings (usually on the cheeks and above the eyes). Dogs bred for show are generally more colour than white, whereas sporting dogs tend to have more white in their coats for ease of the hunter to see them in long grass.

Temperament

The Springer is an affectionate and easy-going family dog, and its alertness and attentiveness make it the ideal hunting companion. An intelligent dog, and eager to please, a Springer is easily incorporated into a family setting. Although good with children, it tends to have a moderate to high energy level. Its long-legged build makes it among the fastest of the spaniels. It has unlimited stamina and needs plenty of activity to focus its mind and to provide substantial exercise.

English Springer Spaniels are playful animals; many owners find humor in their play. As with many playful dogs or hunting dogs bred as retrievers, these dogs will play with things as simple as empty plastic bottles, socks, or towels. These spaniels easily remember where such things are kept and are good at getting them out.

Some people say that English Springer Spaniels are like velcro, because they want to be in the immediate vicinity of their owner. If the owner walks to the other side of a room, so does the English Springer Spaniel. Some may become agitated and whine if they cannot get near people that they know are nearby.

Health

As in many breeds there are health issues for which the breeder should be careful. People acquiring new puppies can avoid some issues by asking the breeder for health clearances of the father and mother of the litter, in particular, Canine Eye Research Foundation (CERF) and Orthopedic Foundation (OFA) certifications for the father and mother. However, health issues can still show up. Hip dysplasia and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), are two such diseases for which veterinarians are working on genetic markers to determine carriers.

English Springer Spaniels are very prone to having ear infections. Susceptible individuals should have their ear canals cleaned weekly with a solution that will leave the ear in an acidic state to retard the growth of yeast and bacteria.

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