English Springer Spaniel: temperament, size, care and health

About the English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized, compact dog with long, low-set ears, a kind expression and a feathered coat. Its colors are liver and white, black and white, or either of those with tan markings. It was bred to flush game birds from cover so a hunter could shoot them, then retrieve them, and the breed still has a springing, eager way of working that gave it its name.

Two types exist. Field-bred dogs tend to be lighter, longer-legged and more intense, while show-bred dogs carry more coat and are a little calmer. Both are loved for cheerfulness and for a tail that rarely stops moving.

Temperament and family life

Springers are friendly with people, and most are happy to accept visitors. They usually do well with children, though a young Springer can be boisterous and may unintentionally knock over small kids. They get along with other dogs, and many live comfortably with cats if raised together, but their bird-hunting instincts mean pet birds and loose poultry need caution.

The breed attaches strongly to its family and is prone to separation anxiety if left alone. Springers can also be sensitive; a harsh tone may upset a dog that is otherwise eager to please. Some lines have a reputation for sudden aggression often called rage syndrome, and anyone buying a puppy should ask a breeder about temperament in both parents.

Exercise and training

A Springer needs vigorous daily activity. Long walks, off-leash running in a secure area, swimming and retrieving are all good outlets. Field-line dogs may need more than an hour and a half. A bored Springer finds its own work, which can include digging, barking or escaping.

The breed learns quickly and likes training, especially when games and food are involved. Obedience, agility, flyball, tracking and hunt tests all suit it. Teach a dependable recall early, because a nose-down Springer on a bird scent is hard to call back.

Grooming and shedding

The coat needs regular attention. Brush several times a week, paying attention to the feathering behind the ears, on the legs and under the chest where tangles form. Pet owners often have the coat clipped every couple of months, while show dogs are hand-stripped and trimmed more precisely.

The long, heavy ears limit airflow and are prone to infection, so clean and dry them regularly. After a day in the field check for burrs, ticks and grass seeds in the coat and between the toes. Shedding is moderate, with more in spring and fall.

Health

Springers are generally healthy for a sporting breed, but several conditions are tied to it. Hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and other eye diseases, chronic ear infections and hypothyroidism occur. Phosphofructokinase deficiency is an inherited enzyme disorder with a DNA test, and responsible breeders test for it along with hips, elbows and eyes. Obesity is common in spayed and neutered pets. These are general points about the breed, and a veterinarian should answer questions about a particular dog.

History

The spaniel family is old in Britain, and Springers were originally the larger spaniels in litters that also produced smaller cockers. Over time breeders in England separated them by function and later by breed. The Kennel Club in Britain recognized the English Springer Spaniel as a distinct breed in the early 1900s. The breed arrived in North America in the same period and became one of the leading hunting spaniels there, and field trials in both countries kept the working type alive.

Is the English Springer Spaniel right for you?

A Springer suits an active family that wants a lively dog and will provide exercise, grooming and company. It is a good fit for people who hunt or who enjoy hiking and dog sports.

It is not a good match for someone who is out of the house all day or who wants a low-maintenance coat. The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a slightly smaller, redder and more reserved relative. The English Cocker Spaniel is smaller still, and the Brittany suits owners who like the energy but want a shorter coat.