Raising an English Springer Spaniel requires a gentle and patient approach from the very start. They need early socialization to help them become confident and calm in new situations.
English Springer Spaniels are prone to ear infections, so regular ear cleaning is a must to prevent this common problem.
Their friendly nature makes them a great addition to families with children, but be aware that they can be boisterous and may accidentally knock over little ones.
English Springer Spaniels need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy, with a daily walk of at least an hour recommended.
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Physical Characteristics
The English Springer Spaniel is a well-proportioned and balanced dog, never overly exaggerated.
They have a compact body and a tail that's usually docked, which is a traditional trait for field-bred springers.
Their medium size makes them a great companion for many families, with an approximate height of 20 inches at the shoulders and a weight of about 50 pounds.
Their coat can vary depending on breeding, with bench-bred springers having a longer, silkier coat with more feathering and less freckles.
Field-bred springers, on the other hand, have a shorter coat with more freckles, or "ticks", throughout their mostly white coat.
Their long ears and soft expression give them a friendly, affectionate look that's hard to resist.
Aggression is unacceptable behavior in English Springer Spaniels, and they're generally not aggressive towards other dogs or people.
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Temperament and Behavior
English springer spaniels are highly intelligent, playful, and extremely social dogs. They love water and will look for every opportunity to splash around.
They generally get along well with children and other animals, but field-bred springers may have their hunting instincts triggered by cats or other small animals. This is because they're natural-born hunters.
English springer spaniels are quick to greet humans with a tail wag and sloppy kisses. They may alert bark as someone approaches the door, but always in a friendly greeting.
Their intelligence and desire to hunt and work make them pick up cues easily. This is why they excel in agility coursework, hunting, and obedience competitions.
English springer spaniels are happiest when they have a job to do, and they'll relish the daily training and practice these events require.
Temperament
English springer spaniels are highly intelligent, playful, and extremely social dogs. They love water and will look for every opportunity to splash around.
Their social nature makes them generally get along well with children and other animals. However, field-bred springers may have their hunting instincts triggered by cats or other small animals.
English springer spaniels are quick to greet humans with a tail wag and sloppy kisses. They may alert bark as someone approaches the door, but always in a friendly greeting.
Their intelligence and natural desire to hunt and work also makes them easy to train. They excel in agility coursework, hunting, and obedience competitions.
English springer spaniels are happiest when they have a job to do and will relish the daily training and practice these events require.
Westminster's Top Dog
James, the English Springer Spaniel, won Best in Show at the 131st Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York. He's a therapy dog who works with Alzheimer's patients.
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James' good works are impressive, but they didn't influence the judging. The judge was looking for that "little something extra" that makes a dog stand out.
The English Springer Spaniel is bred to go hunting, so they have a strong work ethic. They're also known for their style, symmetry, balance, and enthusiasm.
Their head is impressive without being heavy, and their beauty lies in the combination of strength and refinement.
Care and Maintenance
Taking care of your English Springer Spaniel is a big responsibility, but with the right routine, you'll be well on your way to a happy and healthy pup.
Brushing your English Springer Spaniel twice a week will keep their coat looking its best and prevent mats from forming. Regular trimming is also a must to keep their nails tidy and prevent click-clacking on the floor.
The English Springer Spaniel's high intelligence makes them a willing training partner, and using positive reinforcement will get the best results. Whether you're teaching them basic commands or training for the field, patience and consistency are key.
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A balanced diet and regular exercise are essential for your English Springer Spaniel's overall health. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for their age, and keep their diet consistent to avoid digestive issues.
Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations will help prevent common diseases in Springer Spaniels. Don't forget to sign up for pet health insurance to cover any unexpected medical costs.
Here's a quick rundown of daily care tasks to keep your English Springer Spaniel happy and healthy:
- Daily brushing and regular trimming to prevent mats and keep their long coat beautiful.
- Brushing their teeth at least twice a week to keep them perfect.
- Cleaning their ears weekly to prevent infections.
- Exercising them regularly, with a mix of physical activity and mental stimulation.
- Providing a balanced diet and plenty of fresh water.
Remember, every dog is different, so be sure to tailor your care routine to your English Springer Spaniel's unique needs and personality.
Health and Wellness
English springer spaniels are prone to ear infections due to their long ears, so regular ear inspections and cleanings are a must.
Obesity is a significant problem for the breed, especially if they're not getting enough physical activity. I've seen many springer spaniels that have become overweight, and it's led to a range of health issues.
Elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and retinal dysplasia are all common health issues that can affect English springer spaniels. These conditions can cause a range of problems, from joint pain to vision loss.
Phosphofructokinase deficiency (PFK) is a genetic disorder that can make English springer spaniels anemic and prone to muscle pain. It's essential to work with a reputable breeder who has had their dogs tested for this condition.
Regular check-ups with your vet can help identify any potential health issues early on, and they can also provide guidance on how to prevent obesity and other problems. I recommend scheduling regular weigh-ins and health checks to stay on top of your springer spaniel's health.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average life expectancy of an English Springer Spaniel?
English Springer Spaniels typically live for 12-14 years, a normal lifespan for a medium-sized dog. With proper care, they can lead healthy and happy lives well into old age.
What is the most common cause of death in Springer Spaniels?
According to a UK survey, cancer is the leading cause of death in Springer Spaniels, accounting for 26.7% of fatalities. Additionally, English Springer Spaniels are prone to chronic hepatitis, a condition that can also be life-threatening.
Sources
- English Springer Rescue America (ESRA) (springerrescue.org)
- English Springer Spaniel Field Trial Association (ESSFTA) (essfta.org)
- according to the ESSFTA (essfta.org)
- Breed Standards : English Springer Spaniel (ukcdogs.com)
- English Springer Spaniel (pethealthnetwork.com)
- English Springer Spaniel Is Westminster's Top Dog (northcountrypublicradio.org)
- English Springer Spaniel (smallanimalclinic.com)
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