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Introduced in the United
States more than 300 years ago, the English
Springer Spaniel is considered the first of the
English hunting spaniels. This medium-size dog with
the long ears and happy disposition has a history
that goes back hundreds of years to its days as a
companion for European hunters. The name comes from
its way of springing forward to flush game birds out
of hiding.
Today, it is still an excellent retriever and does
will in competition that requires agility, tracking,
obedience, and of course, retrieving. Its good
disposition makes it an excellent family dog, which
is good with children. Keep in mind that many
English Springer Spaniels have very high energy
levels, thus needing regular exercise. Having a
medium-size yard for the dog to run in is ideal for
this often fun-loving breed.
Temperament
A typical English Springer Spaniel is friendly and
eager to please a firm but gentle owner. A well-bred
Springer is poised and comfortable with people,
usually not showing aggression toward other dogs.
This breed enjoys being around its family and is
generally not a shy dog. With some careful planning
and selection from a good breeder, Springer Spaniel
owners would have a faithful and obedient companion.
As with any purebred dog, the proper breeding and
socialization as a puppy are critical in the
development of a good pet. This sporting breed can
get along very well in the home with proper handling
while allowing the dog to maintain its adventurous
spirit. The Springer’s beautiful, longhaired coat
and nice colors give it a certain style and
appearance that disguises its sturdiness and ability
to work hard in the field.
Size and Color
The English Springer Spaniel is a medium-size dog
but is one of the largest of the spaniels. This do
has a sturdy build, standing approximately 19 to 20
inches tall and weighing around 50 pounds. Bred as a
working dog and used extensively for hunting, the
Springer will need plenty of exercise and activity
to maintain its compact and solid body.
Additionally, this breed has a smooth and flowing
gate, actually springing when flushing game.
English Springer Spaniels are liver and white or
black and white and may have some minor tan
markings. The coat is relatively long and straight,
lying close to the body, with “feathering” at the
legs, ears, and chest. A health adult Springer would
have a well-balanced appearance with an impressive
head and strong jaw. Typically, the tail is “docked”
and for show purposes, the dog could be disqualified
if not.
Feeding and Grooming Requirements
Because it is a working breed, very active in the
outdoors, the English Springer Spaniel needs a
quality diet that allows it to remain the energetic
dog it is meant to be. Many experienced owners and
breeders maintain that fresh lean meats, fruits, and
vegetables are best for active dogs. In fact, it is
recommended that you avoid using low-quality
commercial food that contains high levels of grain,
such as wheat, corn, and soy because many dogs are
actually have allergies, causing dry skin and other
problems.
Even though this breed has a weatherproof coat of
some length, it is actually quite easy to maintain.
Regular brushing with a stiff bristle brush should
take care of most normal grooming, as well as an
occasional bath and/or dry shampoo. Springer
Spaniels with a longer coat can develop some
matting, so it is best to watch for this. Then, pay
some extra attention to the ears and feet, check the
ears for infection since they are long and the
inside is not visible.
Exercise Needs
Since the English Springer Spaniel was bred, as a
hunting dog and built for working outdoors, your pet
wants and needs plenty of exercise. A medium size
yard to run in would keep the Springer quite happy.
You also want to plan to take the Springer out for
runs in the park if possible since this breed loves
being around people. However, retrieving and
swimming are favorite activities for the English
Springer Spaniel. This breed can become bored if
left alone for long periods and while they do well
in apartment living, make sure you provide plenty of
exercise time.
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