Welcome to the world of sprollie puppy ownership! Sprollies are a cross between a Springer Spaniel and a Cocker Spaniel, and they require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Sprollies need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, which can be a combination of walks, runs, and playtime in the yard. This will help burn off excess energy and prevent destructive behavior.
With their beautiful coats, sprollie owners will need to commit to regular grooming sessions. Sprollies require daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling, and they need to be bathed every 2-3 weeks.
A well-balanced diet is essential for sprollies, and owners should consider feeding them high-quality puppy food that meets their nutritional needs.
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Characteristics
Sprollies are highly active dogs that require plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. This means they need at least two long daily walks and opportunities to run and play.
They are also extremely intelligent, which can sometimes make them a challenge to live with. Early training and socialization are essential to prevent them from running roughshod over you.
Sprollies are naturally good-natured and loving, but they do need to be taught boundaries to prevent conflict, especially with children. They are sweet and gentle around kids, but it's crucial to introduce them to children when they're young to prevent any issues.
These dogs have an abundant supply of energy and can run for miles without getting tired. If they don't get enough exercise, they can become bored and develop unruly behavior and destructive tendencies.
Sprollies are generally good with other pets, but they need to be socialized from an early age to ensure they welcome new pets into their life without any issues. Introducing them to new pets when they're young is key to harmony within the home.
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Exercise and Activity
Sprollie puppies need at least 2 long walks a day, with each walk being no less than 45 minutes, and most of this time should be spent off the lead so they can run around as much as possible.
Exercise is crucial for Sprollie puppies, as it helps keep them healthy and happy, and a lack of exercise can lead to boredom and destructive behavior.
A Sprollie's favourite game is fetch, and they will play endlessly in the park if you're up for it.
Sprollies require a garden to play in, and during downtime, they should spend lots of time playing in the garden.
Sprollie puppies shouldn't receive too much exercise as their bones and joints are still growing, and they shouldn't be encouraged to jump from high heights or furniture.
A minimum of 1 hour's exercise a day is required for a Sprollie, with as much off the lead time as possible, to keep them happy and well-rounded.
Sprollies need a longer, more interesting walk in the afternoon, with as much off the lead time as possible, and they also like to be able to roam around a back garden.
The fencing in your garden must be extremely secure to keep your Sprollie in, as they will escape if they find a weakness and could get into trouble.
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Sprollie puppies should not be over-exercised, as this can put too much pressure on their joints and spines, which could result in serious problems later in life.
Sprollies love to be outside in nature and dislike being confined in the home for too long, so they should have access to a back garden whenever possible.
Grooming and Care
Grooming a Sprollie puppy requires regular brushing to prevent matting of the coat, particularly under the belly, armpits, groin, and on the ears.
Brushing a few times a week is essential to keep their coats looking good and tangle-free, and to remove dead and shed hair from a dog's coat. They shed steadily throughout the year, but more so during the Spring and Autumn.
Regular ear cleaning is also crucial to prevent infections. If too much wax builds up, it can lead to a painful infection which can be hard to clear up. Cleaning their ears on a daily basis and checking for any sign of infection is a must.
Here are some essential grooming tools you'll need for your Sprollie puppy:
- Good quality slicker brush or soft bristle brush
- Grooming glove
- Nail clippers
- Puppy shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for use on dogs
Caring for the
Caring for the Sprollie is a big responsibility, but with the right approach, it can be a incredibly rewarding experience. Sprollies need regular grooming to keep their coats in top condition.
Brushing your Sprollie twice a week is sufficient to keep their coat in good condition, but during shedding season, you may need to brush them daily to prevent a build-up of hair. Regular brushing also helps to prevent matting, particularly under the belly, armpits, groin, and on the ears.
Sprollies have a double coat, with a harsher top coat and a softer undercoat. They shed steadily throughout the year, and more so during spring and autumn. To stay on top of things, you may need to brush them more frequently during these seasons.
It's also essential to check your Sprollie's ears regularly and clean them when necessary. If too much wax builds up, it can lead to painful infections. In short, prevention is often easier than cure when it comes to ear infections.
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Here's a rough guide to the grooming needs of your Sprollie:
- Brushing: 2-3 times a week
- Nail trimming: every week or two
- Ear cleaning: regularly
- Bathing: as needed (weekly, monthly, or somewhere in between)
- Tooth brushing: daily with vet-approved pet toothpaste
Remember, every Sprollie is different, and their grooming needs may vary depending on their individual characteristics and lifestyle.
Spaying and Neutering
Many vets recommend waiting until dogs are slightly older before spaying and neutering them, ideally between 6 to 9 months old.
Some vets suggest spaying and neutering dogs as young as 6 months old, but this is not recommended unless for medical reasons.
It's essential to discuss the best time for spaying or neutering with a vet, as different breeds may have varying needs.
Vets may recommend waiting until a dog is 12 months old before undergoing the procedures, especially for more mature dogs.
Temperament and Personality
The Sprollie puppy's temperament and personality are truly unique and fascinating. They are a cross between an English Springer Spaniel and a Collie or Border Collie, and as such, they tend to be highly active, smart, and good-natured.
Sprollies are known to be highly energetic dogs, requiring a ton of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and well-rounded. A tired Sprollie is a happy dog, but a bored Sprollie can become quite a handful.
Their intelligence and trainability make them a great choice for first-time owners, but they do require patient and dedicated owners who are willing to put in the time to properly train and socialize them. With early training and socialization, Sprollies can thrive in a variety of environments.
Sprollies are not natural watchdogs, as they are too friendly by nature, but they will still alert their owners to strangers with a bark. They are, however, excellent playmates for children who are at least 6 years old, provided they receive proper training and socialization.
Their desire to herd can sometimes be an issue, especially around younger children, so it's essential to teach them that it's not okay to nip at heels. With the right training and socialization, Sprollies can become loving and loyal companions for families with children.
Sprollies are also known to be obsessive about chasing lights or shadows, so it's best to avoid playing with them using laser toys or flashlights. With the right care and attention, Sprollies can live happy and fulfilling lives as beloved family pets.
Health and Risks
As a Sprollie parent, it's essential to be aware of the potential health risks that come with this breed. Hip Dysplasia is a common issue that can affect your Sprollie, leading to arthritis and mobility problems.
Regular testing and examinations can help catch diseases early, making a huge difference in effective treatment. This is especially important for conditions like Eye conditions, which can be detected through regular check-ups.
Some Sprollies may also be prone to Epilepsy, a neurological disorder that requires proper management and care. To stay on top of your Sprollie's health, consider creating a wellness plan that includes regular testing and examinations.
Here are some common health issues to look out for in your Sprollie:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Eye conditions
- Epilepsy
Risks
Health risks are a serious concern for any dog owner, and Sprollies are no exception. Both English Springer Spaniels and Collies are prone to certain health issues.
Hip Dysplasia is a common problem that can cause arthritis and mobility issues later in life. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help prevent it.
Elbow Dysplasia is another issue that can cause pain and discomfort for your Sprollie. Keeping an eye on your dog's joint health is crucial.
Eye conditions can be a major concern for Sprollies, with some breeds being more prone to issues like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Regular eye exams can help catch these issues early.
Epilepsy is a serious condition that can cause seizures and affect your dog's quality of life. Working with a veterinarian to develop a treatment plan is essential.
Here are some of the health issues to watch out for in Sprollies:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Eye conditions
- Epilepsy
Excessive Barking
Excessive barking is not a common trait in Sprollies, but it's essential to address it early on. Sprollies tend to bark only when strangers approach them or they feel uncomfortable with their surroundings.
Some Sprollies may develop a habit of excessive barking, but this can be gently nipped in the bud when they're still young.
Training is crucial to prevent Sprollies from continuously barking.
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Puppy Nutrition
Feeding your Sprollie puppy a high-quality diet is crucial for their growth and development.
A Sprollie puppy needs to be fed a highly nutritious good quality diet for them to develop and grow as they should.
Puppies need to be fed 3 or 4 times a day, with meals evenly spread out throughout the day.
A rough guide to feeding your Sprollie puppy is as follows:
It's best to stick to the same routine and feed the same puppy food to avoid any tummy upsets.
Buying and Owning
Buying a Sprollie puppy requires careful consideration and research. You should always visit the pet at the seller's home to confirm they are genuine and make a note of their address.
As Sprollies are in high demand, amateur breeders may prioritize making a quick profit over the welfare of the puppies and their dam. This is a red flag, and you should walk away and report them to the RSPCA if you're in any doubt.
To avoid online scams, never buy a puppy unseen and never pay a deposit or any other money online to a seller. You should always ask to see the relevant paperwork pertaining to a dog's lineage, vaccinations, and microchipping.
Here are some key questions to ask a breeder:
- Can I see the microchip paperwork for my records?
- Has the dam been bred too often?
- Can I meet the parents and see the litter in person?
Remember, buying a Sprollie puppy is a big decision, and it's essential to prioritize the welfare of the puppy and its dam.
Buying Advice
Buying a Sprollie can be a thrilling experience, but it's essential to be aware of the potential pitfalls. Sprollies are in high demand, which can lead to amateur breeders taking advantage of unsuspecting buyers.
You should be cautious of online scams, which often involve sellers asking for money up front before delivering a puppy. This is a red flag, and you should never pay a deposit or any other money online to a seller.
Sprollies are a popular choice for both working and family environments, but this has also led to a rise in amateur breeders who prioritize profit over the welfare of the puppies and their dams. These breeders may not follow the recommended guidelines set by the Kennel Club, which includes a dam only producing 4 litters and being at least 2 years old.
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To avoid supporting irresponsible breeding, always ask to see the relevant paperwork, including the microchip paperwork, and verify that the dog has been wormed and microchipped.
Here are some key questions to ask a breeder:
- Can I see the puppy with its mother?
- Has the puppy been wormed and microchipped?
- Can I see the relevant paperwork?
- Has the dam been bred too frequently?
- Are the parents of good temperament and health?
By asking the right questions and being aware of the potential risks, you can find a reputable breeder and bring home a healthy, well-socialized Sprollie.
Things You'll Need
You'll want to make sure you have a good quality puppy gate to fit on doors to restrict your puppy's space when you can't keep an eye on them.
Puppies are boisterous, so a large enough playpen is essential to give them room to express themselves while keeping them safe.
A well-made playpen should be spacious enough for your puppy to play in.
You'll need lots of well-made toys, including good quality chews suitable for puppies to gnaw on, especially during teething from 3 to 8 months old.
Good quality feed and water bowls, ideally ceramic, are a must.
A grooming glove is a great tool for gentle grooming sessions.
You'll also need a slicker brush or soft bristle brush for regular brushing.
Dog specific toothpaste and a toothbrush are necessary for maintaining your puppy's oral health.
Scissors with rounded ends are a must for safe grooming.
Nail clippers are another essential tool for keeping your puppy's nails trimmed.
Puppy shampoo and conditioner, specifically formulated for dogs, are a must for regular bathing.
A well-made dog collar or harness is necessary for walks and identification.
Strong dog leads are also a must for safe walks.
A well-made dog bed that's not too small or too big is essential for comfortable sleeping.
A well-made dog crate is necessary for car trips and home use, and should be large enough for your puppy to move around in.
Here's a list of the essential items you'll need for your puppy:
- Good quality puppy gate
- Large enough playpen
- Well-made toys, including good quality chews
- Good quality feed and water bowls
- Grooming glove
- Slicker brush or soft bristle brush
- Dog specific toothpaste and toothbrush
- Scissors with rounded ends
- Nail clippers
- Puppy shampoo and conditioner
- Well-made dog collar or harness
- Strong dog leads
- Well-made dog bed
- Well-made dog crate
- Baby blankets for crates and beds
Similar Maintenance
If you're considering buying a Sprollie, you might be wondering what similar breeds require in terms of maintenance. The truth is, some breeds are more high-maintenance than others.
Sprollies are known to be energetic dogs that need at least an hour's activity a day, which can include walking, running, hiking, swimming, or playing canine sports. This is especially true for fully grown Sprollies.
If you're not ready to commit to regular, lengthy exercise sessions, you might want to consider breeds that have similar exercise needs. Some breeds that are similar in maintenance to Sprollies include the Poshie, Tibailer, Chi-Poo, Jackie-Bichon, and Blue Picardy Spaniel.
These breeds all require regular exercise, but not necessarily as much as a Sprollie. For example, a Sprollie owner reported taking their dog on 30-minute morning walks and 1.5-hour afternoon walks, with longer walks on days off. This kind of routine can be a good starting point for owners of similar breeds.
Here's a list of similar maintenance breeds to Sprollies:
- Poshie
- Tibalier
- Chi-Poo
- Jackie-Bichon
- Blue Picardy Spaniel
Remember to research the grooming needs and associated costs of any breed before committing to ownership. Some breeds may require regular trips to the grooming parlour, while others may need only occasional washing and nail clipping.
General Information
A Sprollie is not a breed, but a hybrid, created by crossing two different breeds.
The size of a Sprollie can vary, depending on the size of its parents. This means you could have a Sprollie that's as small as 18 inches tall or as tall as 26 inches.
Sprollies usually have a smooth, short coat or a medium-length coat, which is relatively easy to maintain.
They often have floppy ears and a mid-length to long feathered tail that's frequently wagging.
Sprollies come in a variety of colors, including black and white, brown and white, tricolor, and black.
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Similar Breeds
If you're considering bringing a Sprollie puppy home, you might be wondering what other breeds share similarities with this adorable mix of Cocker Spaniel and Dachshund.
If you're looking for breeds that are similar in maintenance to the Sprollie, you have some great options. The Poshie, for example, is 100% similar in maintenance needs to the Sprollie.
Other breeds that require similar care include the Tibalier, Chi-Poo, Jackie-Bichon, and Blue Picardy Spaniel, all of which are 100% similar in maintenance needs to the Sprollie.
If you're looking for breeds that are similarly sized to the Sprollie, here are a few options:
Similarly Sized
If you're looking for breeds that are similar in size to the Sprollie, you've got a few options. The Portuguese Podengo, for example, is a great match, with a 99% similarity in size.
One of the key factors in determining size similarity is the breed's overall height and weight. The Portuguese Podengo typically weighs between 20-40 pounds and stands between 13-18 inches tall.
Another breed that's worth considering is the Aussie Siberian, which is 98% similar in size to the Sprollie. This breed is known for its athletic build and can weigh anywhere from 30-60 pounds.
If you're looking for a breed that's even more similar in size, the Finnish Hound is a great option. It's 98% similar to the Sprollie and typically weighs between 25-50 pounds.
Here are some breeds that are similar in size to the Sprollie:
The Huskimo and Hygenhund are also great options if you're looking for a breed that's similar in size to the Sprollie. Both breeds are 98% similar and have a similar weight range to the Sprollie.
Similarities in Border Collie and Collie
Border Collies and Collies share some common health concerns. Collie Eye Anomaly is a group of eye disorders present at birth and can be detected in puppies as early as 5 to 8 weeks of age.
Genetic tests exist to help identify potential problems early on. Unfortunately, there is currently no screening test for seizure disorders in the breed.
Both breeds can be susceptible to seizures, which often appear early in life. Keeping your dog active and feeding them an appropriate amount of food is crucial to prevent obesity.
Obesity is a common condition in all dogs, and it's essential to prevent it to ward off related health complications.
Broaden your view: Pictures of Puppy Border Collies
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a sprollie a medium sized dog?
A Sprollie is typically a medium to large sized dog, combining the body of the English Springer Spaniel with the characteristics of both parent breeds. Its size can vary, but it generally falls within the medium to large dog category.
Sources
- Sprollie | Dog Breeds Facts, Advice & Pictures (mypetzilla.co.uk)
- Sprollie: Characteristics & Care (wagwalking.com)
- puzzle toys (vetstreet.com)
- Adopt-a-Pet.com (adoptapet.com)
- Sprollie Dogs Breed - Information, Temperament, Size & ... (pets4homes.co.uk)
- Sprollie Breed Information, Characteristics & ... (dogzone.com)
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