English Springer Spaniel

English springer spaniels were selected as fairly close-working hunting partners and have a strong desire to be with people and to be working. Energetic and lively dogs they have a fair amount of intelligence and are reasonably easy to train. Most spaniels have a retrieving urge, and the English springer spaniel is no exception. This urge can lead to chewing problems if the dog is left alone for long periods of time.

Socialize English springer spaniels to other dogs and people right from the start, even though most are fairly outgoing and friendly. Most English springer spaniels do not do well with kennels or sedentary lifestyles. Digging can be a problem with bored dogs.

The English springer spaniel is a fairly easy keeper, so too many treats can lead to obesity. These are dogs that do best with plenty of exercise, be that hunting, jogging with you or training in agility. As intelligent dogs, they are happiest when working with you and respond well to training. English springer spaniels are often seen competing in hunting, obedience and agility tests. These dogs are hardy and often live into their teens.

English springer spaniels can be surprisingly good watchdogs, offering a loud alarm bark and at least some protectiveness. They do well with children if raised with them. These dogs do best with early socialization and training. A few English springer spaniels may be content as couch potatoes, but most prefer to be active. English springer spaniels do seem to like water work as well as land work, and may be attracted to puddles.

Grooming can be a bit of a chore with an English springer spaniel, though this dog requires less work than the smaller cousins. Most owners clip their English springer spaniels at least somewhat and certainly trim around the legs, feet and ears. The show clip requires a steady, skilled hand with the clippers. Daily brushing out of the feathers and long coat is important to prevent matting. Weekly cleaning of the ears is important.