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Facts about English Springer Spaniel Puppies
Are you unsure how to care for English Springer Spaniel puppies or just want to learn more about this breed? Or maybe you are thinking about buying a dog and want to know if this is the right breed for you?
No matter what your situation may be, you will find the answers to your questions right here!
History
This is the oldest and largest of all English spaniel breeds and is closely related to English Cocker Spaniel and American Cocker Spaniel.
The breed was developed as a hunting dog to "spring" and flush the game birds into air.
Some of its many talents include tracking, hunting, retrieving and competitive agility and obedience.
The English Spring Spaniel was recognized as a distinct breed in Great Britain in 1902 and was first imported to the U.S. in the 1920s.
Today, the breed continues to be used as a hunter but is also popular as a companion dog.
Physical Characteristics of English Springer Spaniel Puppies
This is a medium-size dog with a broad head that is almost as long as its neck, dark oval eyes and a brown or black nose. The tail is usually docked and constantly wagging. Like all spaniels, it has long drop ears.
It has a medium-length silky coat that can be straight or wavy. The hair is short on the head but fully-feathered on ears, chest and legs.
The coat comes in blue or liver roan, liver and white, and black and white. Black and white or liver and white may also come with tan markings. There are also "freckles" on the muzzle.
| Height | Weight | ||
| Male | 19 to 20 inches | 45 to 50 pounds | |
| Female | 18 to 19 inches | 40 to 45 pounds |
Temperament
The Springer is an intelligent, friendly, affectionate and easy-going dog with gentle personality, making him an ideal family dog. Its friendliness extends not only to the people it knows but to strangers too.
These dogs enjoy human company and will do best when they spend a lot of time with their families. When left alone for extended periods of time, they may resort to a lot of destructive behaviors.
Though it's good with children, an English Springer Spaniel may be too energetic for small children.
It gets along well with other animals, with the exception of birds - blame it on the genes!
Best Owner
This breed is very adaptable and though it can adjust well to an apartment lifestyle, it will do best with an active owner in a suburban environment.
Some English Springer Spaniel breeders will interview prospective owners to make sure they are qualified.
Activity and Exercise
An English Springer Spaniel is a very active dog.
Provide him with plenty of exercise, including running off leash in a safe place. A fenced yard will be perfect.
At a minimum, take him for one or two long walks every day.
Grooming
The breed is an average shedder. Whether you leave the coat long or clip it to medium length, I recommend regular combing and brushing to prevent matting and tangles.
Those long ears need to be checked for any signs of infection and cleaned of excess wax buildup.
Bathe only when necessary.
Health Concerns
Common health concerns include hip dysplasia, PRA and epilepsy. The breed is also prone to excessive weight gain. Do not over feed your pet.
To avoid the above and many other problems, buy only from reputable English Springer Spaniel breeders.
Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy for an English Springer Spaniel puppy is between 12 and 14 years.
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