English Springer Spaniel - Physical Characteristics
Dog Breeds
English Springer Spaniels are sturdy, compact and hearty medium sized dogs. The topline of the skull and the muzzle should be on parallel planes.
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Appearance
English Springer Spaniels are sturdy, compact and hearty medium sized dogs. The topline of the skull and the muzzle should be on parallel planes. The eyes are kindly and the ears are long, reaching to the tip of the nose when pulled forward. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The head is large, but not heavy, and should be proportionate to the body. The head length should be approximately the same length as the neck. There is a moderate stop. The tail is customarily docked and is carried either horizontally or slightly upward. The double coat is of medium length and is either flat or wavy, with beautiful feathering. English Springer Spaniels may be liver and white, black and white, blue or roan.
Size and Weight
Adult Male English Springers should stand 18 to 20 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 50 and 55 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, standing 17 to 19 inches and weighing around 44 to 50 pounds.
Coat and Color
The English Springer Spaniel wears a double coat made up of an insulating undercoat and medium-length top coat that may be flat or wavy. The coat is waterproof and helps protect the dog from brush in the hunting field. The coat comes in several color combinations including black with white, liver with white or white with liver. Some English Springers may be roan or blue. Tricolor English Springers are black and white or liver and white with tan markings on the eyebrows, cheeks, inside of the ears and under the tail. The white sections of the coat may have some light ticking. Field Springers should have more white than color, so as to be spotted in the field. Show Springers should have more color than white.
Grooming Needs
The English Springer Spaniel should be brushed at least three times per week to prevent tangles and mats, and keep the coat shiny and healthy. Trimming around the head, neck, ears, tail and feet can help neaten the appearance, as well. Trimming is required every six to eight weeks, and most owners take their Springer to a professional groomer for a bath and a trim.
Check the ears on a weekly basis for signs of infection, irritation, or wax build up. The heavy ears of the English Springer do not allow for air to circulate, making them prone to infections. Cleanse regularly with a veterinarian-approved cleanser and cotton ball. Brush the teeth at least once per week to prevent tartar buildup and fight gum disease. Additionally, nails should be trimmed once per month if the dog does not wear down the toenails naturally.
Key Field Skills
Personality