English springer spaniels are total jocks. Stick with us on this: they’re athletic, outgoing, love people, and have energy to burn. This hunting gun dog, was bred to flush prey out from hiding places. Update that behaviour to your living room and it means they’re also super affectionate with their family and happy to play until you drop (they won’t give up themselves). You may just start looking for a “stop” switch.
History
Similar looking dogs were first depicted in the 16th century. Native to England, spaniel ancestors fell into two groups: smaller cocker spaniels, and larger springer spaniels. They got their name because they were bred to “spring” at bushes to scare hiding animals out into the open during hunts.
There has been significant divergences in the breed in the last 70 years. You’ll notice the show breed lines look and behave significantly different to those field bred hunting dogs. People often confused as being different breeds. So it is important to know which you are after when thinking about bringing one home. They might not be as chill as they seem on TV.
Weight: 22-24 kg
Colour: Multiple different combinations but generally black or liver with white or tri-coloured.
Life Expectancy:Ā 12-14 years
What You’ll Love About Springers
- Super friendly: They get on great with other dogs, strangers, and especially children and family.
- Smart: These guys want to please you, so respond well to training.
- Agile: Thanks to their great stamina, they’re well suited to search and rescue work. They’re also used as drug and explosive detection dogs. Plus, great walking companion!
- Social: While they love adventures, they still want to be around people all the time.
What You Might Find āChallengingā
- Energy: This breed is often described as boundless, boisterous, and overly excitable. That “spring” was great for hunting, but can bother people and visitors if the dog’s not well trained.
- Messy: They will find any water to swim in or mud patch to roll in and want to bring it all through the house.
- Loud: This is the flip-side of being so smart. If they get bored, restless, or are left alone for too long they can be destructive or noisy.
- Grooming: That beautiful double coat sheds and requires regular grooming to avoid tangles and remove debris.
Common Health Issues for Moodles
- Hip and elbow dysplasia: Like many larger, active dogs they can run into trouble with their joints.
- Eye problems:Ā Many spanials are prone to issues likeĀ retinal dysplasia, entropion, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and glaucoma. Stay up to date with vet checkupsĀ in addition to keeping theirĀ eyesĀ clean.
- Skin allergies: They need your help to keep their skin and coat healthy. Regular brushing and grooming is essential, otherwise they can run into problems.
- Ear infections: Like many floppy ear breeds, their ears need frequent cleaning. Again, regular grooming can keep this in check.
Instafamous Springer Spaniels
Think a springer spanielĀ is the right pup for you? Find out if youāre ready to add a dog to your life.
Or, learn about other dog breeds.
