English Springer Spaniel
Description
The English Springer Spaniel originated in mid-19th century England as a versatile gun dog, bred to flush game from dense cover. It descends from Norfolk and Shropshire Spaniels and was prized for its ability to locate and spring birds for hunters. This breed’s role extended beyond hunting, later serving in police work due to its strong nose and trainability. Recognized as a distinct breed by the Kennel Club of England in 1902 and by the AKC in 1910, the Springer Spaniel remains a popular choice for both fieldwork and family life. Springers are friendly and eager to please, making them great companions for families with children and other pets. They learn quickly but need consistent mental and physical stimulation to avoid boredom-driven behaviors. Their medium-sized, athletic build supports their active lifestyle, and early socialization paired with obedience training helps channel their natural enthusiasm into positive outlets.
Grooming
The English Springer Spaniel sports a medium-length double coat that requires regular upkeep to stay healthy and tangle-free. Brushing three times a week is essential, increasing frequency during heavy shedding seasons in spring and fall. Use an undercoat rake to remove loose fur from beneath the topcoat, which helps reduce shedding around the home. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks keeps the coat clean, and blow-drying afterward aids in thorough drying and coat maintenance. Their coat colors—ranging from black & white to liver & white, often with ticked, spotted, or roan patterns—don't need special color care but do benefit from regular grooming to prevent matting. - Brush 3× weekly; more in shedding seasons - Use undercoat rake to remove dead hair - Bathe every 4–6 weeks, then blow-dry - Check ears regularly for debris and moisture - Trim feathering on legs and tail for neatness Pro tip: Regular grooming sessions double as bonding time and help spot skin issues early.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
English Springer Spaniels require about 85 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to keep them engaged and well-exercised. Morning walks can be brisk and focused on leash manners, while evening outings offer more freedom for sniffing and exploring. This breed thrives on variety, so mixing in some off-leash time in safe areas or incorporating scent games during walks can keep their keen noses busy. Example routine: - Morning: 40 minutes brisk walk with obedience drills - Evening: 45 minutes relaxed walk with sniffing breaks Short walks won’t satisfy this breed’s need for activity.
Boarding
When boarding an English Springer Spaniel, a crate size of 42 to 48 inches is recommended to comfortably accommodate their medium build. These dogs enjoy interactive play, so staff should plan two active play sessions daily to burn off energy. Incorporating scent and brain games into their routine helps keep their sharp minds engaged and reduces stress. Springers tend to be social and responsive, so consistent human interaction and positive reinforcement are key during their stay. Boarding staff should note the breed’s tendency to bark and ensure they have outlets for mental and physical stimulation to prevent frustration. Providing chew toys and puzzle feeders can also help keep them occupied. A calm, structured environment supports their well-being while away from home.