Ava Williams
Shoulder height: 46 – 56 cm
Weight: 18 – 25 kg
Age: 12 – 14 years
Color: black and white, brown and white, with or without tan
Use: Hunting dog, sporting dog, companion dog, the family dog
The English Springer Spaniel is the largest of the land spaniels and is one of the oldest English hunting dog types. With the appropriate physical and mental workload, the Springer Spaniel is a lovable, obedient and affectionate companion.
Origin and history
The English Springer Spaniel is one of the oldest hunting dog types in Great Britain. This Spaniel type was first mentioned in the 17th century. However, it was only in 1902 that the Kennel Club standardized it as a distinct variety. Its original job was to track down and round up (springing) a game for hunting by falcon or greyhound. The Springer Spaniel has retained its excellent hunting skills to this day.
Appearance
The English Spring Spaniel is a medium-sized, compact, well-proportioned dog. Of all land spaniels, the English Spring Spaniel is the largest. It has hazel, friendly eyes, long hanging ears that lie close to its head, and a low-set tail that was formerly often docked.
The coat color of the English Springer Spaniel can be black and white, brown and white, with or without tan markings. The fur is of medium length, dense, smooth to slightly wavy. It is slightly longer on the ears, legs, belly, and tail.
Nature
The breed standard describes the English Springer Spaniel as friendly, easygoing, and obedient without being timid or aggressive. It is exceptionally fond of water, has an excellent nose, is very intelligent, and loves to work and learn. Therefore, it is not only a versatile hunting dog but also does a good job as a police or customs sniffer dog.
The Springer Spaniel is a passionate hunter and therefore needs a lot of exercise and activity. If it is not out hunting, it needs alternative activities that keep it busy. Track work is excellent, but he can also be enthusiastic about other dog sports such as agility and enjoys hiking, cycling, or jogging tours. Then it is also home to a calm and balanced dog. However, the robust nature boy is not suitable for lazy people or couch potatoes.
With loving, consistent training, the Springer Spaniel is an obedient, very affectionate companion who is extremely devoted to its people and is uncomplicated in attitude. However, it does not tolerate too hard or rude training methods. You have to work with it consistently and lovingly, then you have a dog that does every job that is asked of it with joy.
Springer Spaniels do not hate food and tend to be overweight. You should therefore ensure a balanced, healthy, and moderate diet. The simple long hair is relatively easy to care for.