English Springer Spaniel

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceFlexible

  Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–14 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ear infections · Hip dysplasia · Progressive retinal atrophy

The English Springer Spaniel is a bouncing, joyful field dog that wants to be part of every family activity — the muddier and wetter the better. Bred to flush and retrieve game all day, it has real stamina and needs substantial daily exercise plus mental engagement, and an under-exercised Springer becomes bored and restless. Friendly, eager to please and highly trainable, it bonds closely with its people and dislikes being left alone; it makes a wonderful active-family dog for owners who can meet its energy. The medium, feathered coat needs brushing a couple of times a week and some trimming, plus regular cleaning of the drop ears. Health-wise, buy from a breeder who screens hips and eyes: the breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections (from those drop ears), progressive retinal atrophy and other eye disease, and skin conditions. A note on temperament: choose a reputable breeder, since a small number of poorly bred lines have shown sudden aggression issues, and good breeding and socialisation matter. Give a Springer plenty of exercise, training, company and grooming, and it will be an exuberant, devoted companion for twelve to fourteen years.

• How much exercise does a English Springer Spaniel need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a English Springer Spaniel need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a English Springer Spaniel suited to apartment living?

  Flexible. Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

• Is a English Springer Spaniel a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do English Springer Spaniel live?

  12–14 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the English Springer Spaniel?

  Keep an eye out for Ear infections, Hip dysplasia, Progressive retinal atrophy. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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