English Springer Spaniel Dog Breed

AKC Dog Breeds: English Springer Spaniel

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Sporting Group
Height:18-21 inches Weight: 40-55 pounds Color: White with overlay markings

The English Springer Spaniel has been endowed with style, enthusiasm, and an "eager to please" quality common to most spaniels. He is recognized for his ability to keep going and going under adverse hunting conditions, which is partly due to his medium-sized, powerful body. English Springer Spaniels and Cocker Spaniels were originally born in the same litters; the smaller "Cockers" hunted woodcock while their larger littermates were utilized to flush, or "spring," game. In 1902 the Kennel Club of England recognized the English Springer Spaniel as a distinct breed (separate from English Cockers). The Springer Spaniel became even better known in North America after 1924, when the English Springer Spaniel Field Trial Association was formed and field trials were started for the first time.

General Appearance
The English Springer Spaniel is a compact, hearty medium-sized dog with long pendant ears. They should be sturdy and neither too light nor too heavy. The tail is generally docked (and wagging!). The dog should have a proud bearing, with a level back approximately the same length as the height at the withers (never longer). The front legs should he straight. The feet are compact. The head is strong, yet refined and not too heavy, in good proportion to the rest of the dog. The length of the head should be about the same as the length of the neck. The stop is moderate with a groove rising between the eyes and gradually disappearing in the middle of the forehead. The topline of the skull and muzzle have approximately parallel planes. The medium-sized eyes have a kind expression. The eyes are either hazel or brown, depending on the color of the coat. The ears are set in line with the eyes. When pulled forward, the ears should reach all the way to the top of the nose. The tail is customarily docked.

Temperament
Active, intelligent, and eager to please, the English Springer Spaniel is a dog that loves the companionship and affection of his family, and is a real people person with strong social skills when properly socialized. He is a quick learner which makes him easy to obedience train. The English Springer Spaniel has plenty of energy and spirit, and loves to play and exercise. Some English Springer Spaniel can be overly boisterous at times, and others can be overly dependant to the point where they become clingy, so early training is essential as is the need to teach the dog to be independent. These dogs do not like being neglected, and being left along for long periods can result in destructive behavior and anxiety, so this is not the right dog for those that are away for long periods and do not have the time to commit to a pet. The English Springer Spaniel gets along well with children, particularly when raised with them, and is also good with other pets. He is a sociable dog and will get along well with most strangers, although some English Springer Spaniels may be more reserved around strangers than others. These dogs are faithful, devoted, and loyal, and they do have a protective streak that means they will make noise to alert his owners to possible danger, making him an effective watchdog. The sweet nature and high intelligence of the English Springer Spaniel makes him well suited to the more inexperienced dog owner as well as the experienced.

Grooming
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.

Health Problems and Life Expectancy
The lifespan of the English Springer Spaniel is around 12 years, and there are a number of health problems that may be associated with this breed. This includes ectropion, glaucoma, retinal problems, PRA, and epilepsy. Springers are also prone to ear infections because of their floppy ears. The air is not always able to circulate properly, causing a build up of bacteria or yeast. This breed tends to gain weight easily, so obesity is another common health issue. Obesity can lead to broken bones, diabetes, and can even shorten your pet's life. 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.

Activity Level
This breed is energetic and requires daily exercise. They have the ability to thrive in the country as well as the city. They enjoy brisk walks, bicycling, ball chasing, and swimming. They will do well in an apartment dwelling provided they are sufficiently exercised and given a safe space to run. It is important to remember that the English Springer Spaniel be given plenty of attention and stimulation.

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