English Springer Spaniel

Friendly, happy disposition, biddable. Timidity or aggression highly undesirable.

As an energetic and inquisitive dog, the springer needs daily mental and physical exertion. An outing in the field, long walk on leash and good obedience lesson can go far to making the springer a calm and well-behaved house dog. This breed does best if allowed to live in the house with access to a yard. His coat needs brushing or combing one or two times weekly plus clipping and scissoring every three months. Springers from field, rather than show, lines tend to have less coat.

This breed is energetic and requires daily exercise. They have the ability to thrive in the country as well as the city. They enjoy brisk walks, bicycling, ball chasing, and swimming. They will do well in an apartment dwelling provided they are sufficiently exercised and given a safe space to run. It is important to remember that the English Springer Spaniel be given plenty of attention and stimulation.

Exercise, grooming and training.

This breed requires regular grooming with a stiff bristle brush. Bathing or dry shampooing should only be done when necessary. Their ears must be cleaned and checked on a consistent basis. It is important to keep the hair on the feet trimmed to prevent burrs or other objects from becoming imbedded. They are prone to hip dysplasia, PRA, PFK, and epilepsy. This breed tends to gain weight easily and must not be overfed. The English Springer Spaniel has recently become afflicted with a serious personality disorder called "Rage Syndrome". A rare disorder, this syndrome will cause an otherwise normal dog to go into a sudden rage and viciously attack. Should this occur, the English Springer Spaniel will not respond to any commands. This condition has been found to be a form of epilepsy and is treatable.

With a consequent, gentle, well ballanced and varied training, lovely results can be obtained because it is a submissive, intelligent dog and it likes to learn.

The fur needs regularly brushing and combing and to be trimmed 2-3 times a year. The hair grown in excess between the pads of the legs, from ears and from the inferior side of these will be cut, to ensure a good ventilation.

Beware of hip dysplasia - buy from OFA certified stock (both parents and grandparents should be certified if possible). This breed tends to gain weight easily, so don't overfeed. Needs a lot of exercise to be happy. Train gently. Some skilled scissoring a