
Member of the English Springer Spaniel Field Trial Association
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The English Springer Spaniel
Country of Origin: The English
Springer Spaniel emerged as a distinct breed in the 1800s, though
Spaniel-like dogs had existed for several centuries prior. It
originated in England as a gundog trained to flush game birds out into
the air (spring), where they could be caught by trained hawks or
falcons. The English Springer Spaniel was also skilled at hunting
waterfowl and small land prey such as rabbits. The breeds name was
changed from Norfolk Spaniel (after the Duke of Norfolk, for his
influential breeding program) to English Springer Spaniel in 1900. At
the time, the English Springer Spaniel was essentially a larger version
of the Cocker Spaniel, but clubs were formed to promote its
development, with much success. Today, the English Springer Spaniel is a
popular gundog, show dog, and pet. An English Springer Spaniel named
Felicitys Diamond Jim won the American Kennel Club national
championship in December 2006 and Best in Show at the Westminster Dog
Show in 2007. Other famous English Springer Spaniels include George W.
Bushs English Springer Spaniel Spot Fetcher and William Wallaces
English Springer Spaniel Merlin MacDonald, who is reported to have
assisted him in his victory over the English at the Battle of Stirling
Bridge.
Size: The English
Springer Spaniel has a shoulder height of approximately 51 cm (20 in)
and weighs 18-25 kg (40-55 lbs). It has large lips, long ears, oval
eyes, and a moderate stop (depression where the muzzle meets the
forehead). English Springer Spaniels have sloped shoulders and a tail
which is normally docked. Working English Springer Spaniels and show
English Springer Spaniels can vary significantly in appearance, as most
work and show lines diverged over 50 years ago. Show dogs generally
have a longer tail, longer coat and ears, heavier set, and larger flews
(upper lips) and dewlap (skin folds beneath the chin).
Coat:
The English Springer Spaniel has a dense, smooth coat which is dirt-
and water-resistant. English Springer Spaniels are white with either
black or liver. They may have tan markings, usually on the cheeks or
above the eyes. Show dogs generally have a longer, smoother coat with
more color whereas working dogs have a shorter, rougher coat which is
whiter for easier visibility.
Character:
English Springer Spaniels are obedient, friendly, and sociable. They
are easy-going and eager to be a part of the family. The English
Springer Spaniel will become hyperactive if ignored or unexercised. It
enjoys playing with items it finds around the house such as socks and
water bottles. English Springer Spaniels have a tendency to amuse
themselves by snooping around in off-limits areas.
Temperament:
The English Springer Spaniel is known for its ability to get along well
with other pets, dogs, and children. Some English Springer Spaniels
may be aggressive with same sex dogs. As with all breeds, socialization
when young is preferred to make the English Springer Spaniel more
comfortable around others.
Care:
The English Springer Spaniel requires grooming with a brush several
times a week and trimming or clipping several times a year. Most show
dogs are professionally groomed. The English Springer Spaniel has a
lifespan of 10-14 years. It is susceptible to hip dysplasia (malformed
hip joint which can cause lameness or arthritis), and retinal disorders
such as PRA and RD. Some English Springer Spaniels are prone to ear
infection, which can be prevented by regular cleaning of the ear
passages.
Training: The
English Springer Spaniel is not difficult to train. It is very
intelligent and eager to please. Obedience training is recommended.
The English Springer Spaniel can learn a wide variety of hunting skills,
such as following hand signals, Scenting (tracking prey by smell),
Flushing (flushing birds in a zigzag pattern), Quarter (remaining in
gun range), Soft Mouth (holding a bird in the mouth without biting
it), and Retrieve to Hand (delivering to the hunter on command).
Activity:
The English Springer Spaniel is a hunting breed with high exercise
requirements. It is happiest on the hunt, but also enjoys going for a
walk, playing in a large field, retrieving, and swimming.
This is the founder of all the English hunting spaniels. During the Renaissance, it was considered the ideal companion for the European hunter. Its popularity in America began in 1700. The Springer Spaniel gets its name from his method of flushing game: he springs forward to drive birds out of hiding. This breed hunts well both on land and water and is good at work in brush. He also is a fine retriever. The English Springer Spaniel's merry, gentle personality makes him an ideal family dog. His talents are hunting, tracking, retrieving, watchdogging, agility, competitive obedience, and performing tricks.
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Looking For An Older Springer?
If you are, please consider the English Springer Rescue America. They help place Springer Spaniels that have been separated from their homes for any number of reasons. Kathy Armstrong is our Regional Director for the ESRA and is a pleasure to work with. Feel free to contact me with any questions you have or go directly to this website. www.springerrescue.org
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