Introduction
The English Springer Spaniel is a breed of dog in the Sporting Group. This 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.
The average English Springer Spaniel stands 19 to 20 inches high at the shoulders and weighs on average between 40 and 50 pounds. Their long wavy silky hair should be brushed daily and groomed regularly, and their long floppy ears require frequent cleanings and check-ups to prevent serious bacterial and yeast infections.
Temperament
The English Springer Spaniel is a very intelligent dog that loves to learn new commands and tricks. These dogs are a delight to train, they learn new commands quickly, and they enjoy the physical and mental challenges of competition training. They do very well with families and young children, and their lively and playful antics are a joy to watch.
As a spaniel, this breed does need a good amount of exercise or they can become hyper and destructive. They also need tons of toys and playtimes to prevent boredom. The English Springer Spaniel gets along well with other animals, especially if socialized at a young age.
Health
English Springer Spaniels have an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years. There are inherited health risks associated with this breed which pet owners should be aware of. These include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), retinal dysplasia (RD), and phosphofructokinase deficiency (PFK). English Springer Spaniel owners should also be on the lookout for symptoms of ear infections and allergies.
History
The English Springer Spaniel was bred primarily as a hunting and gundog and later as competition dogs. English Springer Spaniels and Cocker Spaniels were considered to be the same breed until the late 1800’s when the two breeds were no longer bred with one another. In 1902 the English Springer Spaniel was acknowledged as its own breed.
English Springer Spaniel
Quick Facts
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Weight: 40-50 lbs
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Height: 19-20 in
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Coat: Long, wavy, silky
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Temperament: Intelligent, eager to learn
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Lifespan: 12-14 years