English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a gun dog breed of dog used for flushing and retrieving game.

Appearance

Like many breeds developed for specific work, in modern times the show dog lines have diverged from working dog lines, depending on which aspect of the dog the breeders have chosen to focus on.

Males in the show dog line average approximately 18-20 inches at the withers and weigh on average between 50 and 55 pounds. Females are generally smaller, averaging closer to 40 pounds. Dogs in the working dog line tend to be smaller and lighter boned.

Its coat comes in a wide variety of markings even within a certain color combination. Black-and-white and liver-and-white colors are among the best known.

Temperament

The Springer is an affectionate and easy-going family dog, and its alertness and attentiveness make it the ideal hunting companion. An intelligent dog, and eager to please, a Springer is easily incorporated into a family setting. Although good with children, it tends to have a moderate to high energy level. Its long-legged build makes it among the fastest of the spaniels. It has unlimited stamina and needs plenty of activity to focus its mind and to provide substantial exercise.

English Springer Spaniels are playful animals; many owners find humor in their play. As with many playful dogs or hunting dogs bred as retrievers, these dogs will play with things as simple as empty plastic bottles, socks, or towels. These spaniels easily remember where such things are kept and are good at getting them out.

Some people say that English Springer Spaniels are like velcro, because they want to be in the immediate vicinity of their owner. If the owner walks to the other side of a room, so does the English Springer Spaniel.

Health

Unfortunatly, a condition exists, mainly in show lines, Springer Rage Syndrome, where English Springer Spaniels have been known to attack without provocation and without warning. Springer Rage Syndrome can be diagnosed by an animal behaviourist and possibly treated by medication such as Prozac. 

History

This spaniel is an older breed, appearing in paintings as early as the 1600s. It is possibly the ancestor of most modern spaniels; springer spaniels and cocker spaniels were not recognized as separate breeds until the 1800s.