Springer Spaniel

About the Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized, energetic gundog breed known for its boundless enthusiasm and affectionate nature. One of the oldest spaniel breeds, they were originally used for flushing and retrieving game. They are versatile dogs that excel as working dogs, show dogs, and family companions, with a characteristically friendly expression and wagging tail.

Springer Spaniels are friendly, playful, and obedient. They are highly sociable dogs that thrive in active family environments. They are eager to please and respond well to training. Working-bred Springers tend to be more energetic and driven, while show-bred lines are generally calmer. Both types are affectionate and loyal.

Springers are high-energy dogs requiring at least 1.5-2 hours of exercise daily. They love long walks, running, swimming, and retrieving games. They excel at field trials, agility, and flyball. Without sufficient exercise, they can become hyperactive and develop unwanted behaviours. They are best suited to active families with outdoor access.

Their medium-length coat with feathering on the ears, chest, belly, and legs requires regular brushing 2-3 times weekly. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks helps maintain coat condition. Ear care is particularly important — their long, heavy ears should be checked and cleaned several times weekly to prevent infections.

Common health concerns include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, retinal dysplasia, and ear infections. Some Springers are prone to phosphofructokinase deficiency and cord1 PRA. Rage syndrome (sudden onset aggression) is a rare but known condition in the breed. Health testing by breeders is essential.

Provide ample daily exercise and mental stimulation. Springers thrive with training and activities that channel their natural retrieving instincts. Maintain a strict grooming routine with particular attention to ears and feathering. Feed a diet appropriate for active dogs and monitor weight. Early socialisation and consistent training produce a well-adjusted, obedient companion.

When buying a Springer Spaniel, decide between working and show types as they differ significantly. Both parents should be tested for progressive retinal atrophy (cord1 PRA DNA test), phosphofructokinase deficiency (PFK DNA test), and have BVA hip scores and current eye certificates. Working Springers are leaner and more driven; show Springers are heavier-coated and calmer. Visit the breeder to assess the parents' temperament and energy levels. Reputable breeders will be members of a Springer Spaniel breed club and provide comprehensive health documentation.

Responsible Springer Spaniel breeders test for cord1 PRA (DNA test), phosphofructokinase deficiency (PFK DNA test), hip dysplasia (BVA/KC scheme), and conduct annual eye examinations. Retinal dysplasia screening is also recommended. Ask about the temperament of the breeder's lines, particularly regarding 'rage syndrome' (sudden onset aggression), which is rare but documented in the breed. Good breeders socialise puppies extensively and can advise on the significant differences between working and show lines.