English Springer Spaniel
Group 3: Gun dogs
Height: approx. 51 cms (20 ins).
Energy Level: Moderate to high
Original Function: Hunting
Lifespan: 12 – 15 yrs
Recommended for: Active people & families.
About This Breed
The English Springer Spaniel is one of the largest of the spaniels; All spaniels can probably trace their origins back to the spaniels of Spain. In 1892 the Kennel Club of Great Britain recognised Cocker and Springer spaniels as separate breeds even though they sometimes appeared in the same litter. This was soon stopped by the two breed clubs and a standard conformation was made of each breed.
The Kennel Club of Great Britain granted breed recognition in 1902; the American Kennel Club granted recognition in 1927. This breed is of the oldest sporting gundogs. Their original purpose was for finding and springing game for the net, falcon or greyhound. Nowadays they are used to find, flush and retrieve game for the gun.
These dogs are very popular within a family environment, a good all-rounder. It is one of the most versatile of the sporting dogs. They make great family pets; they are patient and tolerable with children. They are extremely loyal and are quick learners.
The typical Springer is an extrovert by nature, friendly, eager to please, quick to learn and willing to obey. Springers are known to continue to develop and mature until they are 2 years old. Aggression and dominance are not common in the breed but can be a problem if not handled carefully when young. As a rule they make good companions and family dogs, being well behaved and quick to learn and respond.
General Characteristics
Appearance: Medium sized, symmetrically built, compact, strong, merry, active. Highest on leg and raciest in build of all British land Spaniels. Dark almond shaped eyes. Ears are long & hang to the side of the head. Tail well feathered with lively action.
Temperament: Friendly, happy disposition, biddable. Timidity or aggression highly undesirable.
Characteristics: Breed is of ancient and pure origins, oldest of sporting gundogs; original purpose was finding and springing game for net, falcon or greyhound. Now used to find, flush and retrieve game for fun.
Colour: Liver and white, black and white, or either of these colours with tan markings.
Coat: Close, straight and weather resisting, never coarse. Moderate feathering on ears, forelegs, body and hindquarters.
Grooming: The body coat of the Springer is flat or wavy and of medium length, it is also weatherproof, waterproof and thorn proof. The ears, chest, legs, tail and under carriage have moderate feathering. As a result of this feathering some amount of grooming is required. Some trimming will be necessary around the head, feet and ears. Extra grooming is required especially after a day out in the undergrowth as the coat can and will pick up all sorts of twigs and grass.
Exercise: They love the outdoors, energetic enough to go on all day. A lot of exercise and learning is required to keep this dog happy. They love to be kept involved in all family activities and as such are ideal for a growing family. They will settle happily after exercise.
Health: This breed can suffer from eye problems and hip dysplasia