English Springer Spaniel : 10 Most Common Questions
The English Springer Spaniel is a friendly, active, and often fun-loving dog. Most owners find this an easy breed to raise, great for enjoying during family activities, inside and outside.
However, you will always find some unique situations with purebred dogs.
Therefore, to help you understand this breed a little better, we have pulled some information together.
1. What is the English Springer Spaniels’ background?
Bred hundreds of years ago in Europe to accompany hunters and “spring” birds and other game from the brush, the Springer is a sturdy and energetic dog that loves to be outdoors, often jumping into water because it loves to swim. With this hunting background, English Springer Spaniels do well in agility and retrieving competitions.
2. How big does the English Springer Spaniel get?
The English Springer Spaniel is a medium-size dog but is one of the largest of the spaniel category. This breed has a sturdy build, standing about 19 to 20 inches tall at the withers, as well as weighing approximately 50 pounds. Bred as a working dog and used extensively for hunting, the Springer needs plenty of exercise.
3. I am going to start looking at Springer Spaniels – how do I choose a breeder?
It would be best to visit at least three reputable breeders and be prepared to ask a ton of questions about the puppy, the parents, general care, and feeding. We would recommend trying to find a breeder that specializes in this breed so you find one that understands how important it is to socialize the young dog to be comfortable with other dogs and with humans.
4. What kind of temperament should I expect with the Springer?
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. Today, it is still an excellent retriever and does well in competition, associated with agility, tracking, obedience, and of course, retrieving. Its good disposition makes it an excellent family dog that usually does well with children.
5. Does an English Springer Spaniel make a good outside or inside dog?
Though the Springer is not extremely active indoors, it will do well in an apartment or small house, as long as you give your pet plenty of outdoor exercise and room to run. The English Springer Spaniel, with its loving and people-oriented temperament, should never be left tied outside because it would become bored and even cross. A combination of inside living and outdoor recreation is probably best.
6. What is the best way to potty train a Springer?
There are several preferred methods for this type of training but we often recommend crate training, which gives the dog a safe place to go when it needs to be alone. This breed is wiling to learn. Additionally, the Springer usually makes an effort to keep its “den” clean. Therefore, crate training as part of the program can be very successful but it is always best to focus on prevention by taking your dog out early in the morning and before you go to sleep at night. Be sure to praise your pet for doing the right thing.
7. Will my English Springer Spaniel become aggressive and even mean with age?
Do not automatically assume that your Springer has what is called “rage syndrome” just because he becomes a bit more assertive and aggressive. English Springer Spaniels can go through a “teenage” time when they are less cooperative. However, this breed is usually calm and caring, not showing aggression toward other dogs often.
8. What health conditions should I watch for with my English Springer Spaniel?
The English Springer Spaniel is a very healthy breed overall, and can be especially worry-free if given the right diet and a good amount of exercise. However, when buying a puppy, we suggest you ask about hip dysplasia, a degenerative joint disease, and about some of the eye problems that spaniels can experience, such as PRA. In addition, this breed gains extra weight quickly if not given a proper diet and enough exercise.
9. What should I feed my English Springer Spaniel?
Most owners have had good experience with fresh, lean meats, fruits, and vegetables. You should avoid feeding grapes and raisins because of a unique toxicity with many purebred dogs. In addition, many dogs are allergic to the corn, wheat, and soy in low-grade commercial foods, causing skin irritation and other problems because of these allergies.
10. How long does the Springer live?
A healthy, well-cared-for English Springer Spaniel can live to be 12 to 14 years old. Getting a healthy puppy to begin with is important to ensure that you have many years of enjoyment with your pet.
More About English Springer Spaniel
- English Springer Spaniel Breed Information
- English Springer Spaniel Training Guide
- English Springer Spaniel Health Guide
- Owning an English Springer Spaniel : Dachshund Recommendations
