The English Springer Spaniel is a breed of dog in the Sporting Group. This dog breed has a very lively and playful temperament, along with the classic ‘willing to please’ spaniel attitude. The English Springer Spaniel was recognized by the AKC in 1910 and AKC approved in 1994.
English Springer Spaniels are broken into working and show breed lines. While they are registered together, the gene pools have been kept completely separate for near 80 years. In fact, to the casual observer the field-bred Springer and the show-bred Springer appear to be different breeds. A field-bred Springer would not be competitive in a modern dog show, while a show-dog would be unable to display the requisite speed or stamina to succeed in a field trial.
The English Springer Spaniel is an affectionate and easy-going dog. They are typically very intelligent and eager to please, and easily incorporated into a family setting. Although good with children, it tends to have a moderate to high energy level, so care should be taken when around very young kids.
An English Springer Spaniel bred for the field is often used as an upland flushing dog. In performing this task there are some skills the dog must be trained to perform.