10 Key Facts About English Springer Spaniels Before Buying

The English Springer Spaniel puppies are a native British dog breed famous for their lively character and history as working gundogs. Originally bred to retrieve game for hunters with a gentle touch, they have transitioned into popular companion dogs across the UK.

They are a medium-sized breed noted for their affectionate nature, intelligence, and energy, making them the 17th most popular dog breed in the UK today. If you are considering adding a springer spaniel to your family, it’s vital to understand the breed’s unique traits and care requirements before making this lifelong commitment.

1. English Springer Spaniels Are Exceptionally Lively and Active

These dogs possess high energy levels reflective of their working gundog origins. They thrive when given plenty of outdoor exercise, ideally at least two long walks or vigorous play sessions daily. Without adequate activity, they can become bored and may develop behavioural problems. Owners should be prepared for an active lifestyle alongside their springer.

2. Highly Intelligent and Quick Learners

Ranked 13th among dog breeds for intelligence, English Springer Spaniels are quick to pick up commands and enjoy mental challenges. Training these smart dogs requires consistency and patience, as they can easily become bored if not kept engaged. Using positive reinforcement and varied activities helps maximise their learning potential.

3. Natural Retrievers with a Soft Mouth

Springers often love carrying objects and have an admirable 'soft mouth,' meaning they can gently retrieve delicate items without damage. This trait remains strong even when kept as pets and makes them excellent companions for fetch games and retrieving-based canine sports.

4. Grooming Needs Can Be Demanding

Their characteristic feathered double coat helps protect them in rough terrain but requires regular maintenance. Frequent brushing, ideally 2-3 times a week, is necessary to prevent matting and to keep their coat healthy. As adventurous dogs not shy of mud and burrs, springers need owners willing to invest time in grooming.

5. Love for Swimming

English Springer Spaniels often delight in swimming, a reflection of their traditional working environment involving water. Providing occasions to swim can be highly beneficial for their physical health and provide stimulating exercise. Always supervise around water, as their enthusiasm can lead them to jump in unexpectedly.

6. Generally Excellent Family Dogs

Known for their kind and trustworthy temperament, springers usually bond well with children and family members. They tend to be outgoing and sociable with humans and other dogs, though early socialisation remains key to managing individual differences. They make loving companions in the right household.

7. Understand Breed-Specific Health Challenges

While generally robust, English Springer Spaniels are prone to hereditary health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, ear infections due to floppy ears, progressive retinal atrophy, and sometimes digestive sensitivities. Prospective owners should research these conditions and choose reputable breeders who perform health screenings.

8. Their Remarkable Sense of Smell Makes Them Excellent Sniffer Dogs

Many springers excel in scent work and detection roles with police and military units. Their tracking abilities and eagerness to work extend into home life, where scent-based games can offer enriching mental activity and strengthen bonds with their owners.

9. Suitability for Canine Sports

With their energy, agility, and intelligence, English Springer Spaniels thrive in canine sports such as agility, obedience, and heelwork to music. These activities provide physical exercise and mental stimulation, both important for their wellbeing.

10. A Conscientious First-Time Owner’s Choice

Springers can be a good choice for first-time dog owners who commit to understanding the breed’s demands for exercise, training, grooming, and health monitoring. However, unprepared owners may find them challenging due to their energetic and intelligent nature.

Before deciding to bring an English Springer Spaniel into your home, conduct thorough research and evaluate how well their needs fit your lifestyle to ensure a happy and rewarding relationship.