English Springer Spaniel Overview

The English Springer is not a good dog for a lounge-about handler. With virtually endless stamina and an eagerness to learn, this is a breed that excels at work and at home, provided it has plenty of room to exercise both mentally and physically. 

Unlike the Cocker Spaniel, this dog is generally healthy. While used as a gundog, the English Springer’s sense of smell places it among the ranks of law enforcement as a drug sniffer. 

The English Springer Spaniel is better suited for active owners than the Cocker Spaniel, and it is an excellent choice for the family.

English Springer Spaniel History

Typical of most dogs, the English Springer has no specific date of origin. The breed was originally used for the purpose of chasing game out of hiding places so the hunters could get a good shot. But after the invention of the firearm in the 1600s, their purpose changed to retrieving. 

Officially recognize by the English Kennel Club in 1902, their purpose is distinctly cut as a hunter-gatherer type of animal: go out and work during the day, then come home to a loving family. 

Eventually, the breed proved itself a capable animal for any owner who enjoys receiving medals. In one day, the dog can perform in a show competition, only to leave and compete in obedience and athletics competitions. 

English Springer Spaniel Character

The old phrase, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” need not apply for this breed. If an English Springer Spaniel begins its training at an early age, it will thrive for the rest of its life. But if training comes late, this dog could become a hassle. 

A perfect family dog, it is lively, energetic, and ready for play whenever the owner is ready. But it is also gentle, patient, and friendly with children. Yet this dog is rather demanding as well, easily becoming bored and anxious if the family spends most of its time away from home. 

While it is possible to break the dog from chewing problems, it still requires a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to be happy. The English Springer is also a dog that never hesitates to get dirty. If cleaning mud off the floor and giving frequent baths are not your idea of a good time, then this breed is not for you. But if you are in search for an infinitely trainable exercise buddy, the English Springer Spaniel is an ideal dog.

English Springer Spaniel Care

This breed requires regular grooming with a stiff bristle brush. Bathing or dry shampooing should only be done when necessary. Their ears must be cleaned and checked on a consistent basis. It is important to keep the hair on the feet trimmed to prevent burrs or other objects from becoming imbedded. They are prone to hip dysplasia, PRA, PFK, and epilepsy. This breed tends to gain weight easily and must not be overfed.

The English Springer Spaniel has recently become afflicted with a serious personality disorder called "Rage Syndrome". A rare disorder, this syndrome will cause an otherwise normal dog to go into a sudden rage and viciously attack. Should this occur, the English Springer Spaniel will not respond to any commands. This condition has been found to be a form of epilepsy and is treatable.

English Springer Spaniel Training

The English Springer Spaniel benefits from early intensive socialization and obedience. They must have firmness, fairness, praise, and consistency. This breed enjoys and excels in agility, fly-ball, tracking, retrieving, obedience, and, of course, hunting. They are also capable of making wonderful therapy dogs.

English Springer Spaniel Health

Common Health Issues for the English Springer Spaniel:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the English Springer Spaniel:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

English Springer Spaniel Resources