English Springer Spaniel
Cheerful, athletic gun dog. Brilliant family dog with a serious need for exercise.
Photo: Lorenzo Manera / Pexels
The English Springer Spaniel was bred to "spring" game birds for hunters in 17th-century England. There's a strong split between working lines (athletic, intense) and show lines (heavier, gentler). Both are wonderful family dogs but need real exercise — couch-potato Springers are miserable.
Temperament
Cheerful, friendly, eager-to-please, sociable. Springers are excellent with children and other dogs.
Exercise needs
90+ minutes of daily exercise. They love retrieving, scent work and water.
Grooming
Medium-length coat with feathering. Brush 3× weekly. Long ears need weekly cleaning.
Common health issues
Hip dysplasia. Eye conditions (PRA, retinal dysplasia). Ear infections. Phosphofructokinase deficiency (DNA test). "Rage syndrome" historically, mostly bred out.
👍 Best for
Active families, hunters, country homes.
👎 Not best for
Sedentary owners, apartments without serious exercise commitment.
Buying guides for English Springer Spaniel owners
Recommended for English Springer Spaniel owners
Buying guides for English Springer Spaniel owners
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