The English Springer Spaniel originated in England in the 1600s. This breed was originally used for bird flushing and retrieving. It is the largest of the land spaniels. Dr. John Caius wrote the first book outlining the various British breeds by function. In his writings, the Land Spaniels were separated into two kinds – the Springing or Hawking Spaniel and the Cocker Spaniel. During the 19th century, many different breeds were developed and were often named after the county in which they were developed.
An English Springer Spaniel can live ten to fifteen years. This breed weighs between 40 and 50 pounds and stands 19 to 20 inches at the shoulder. This medium sized dog is compact. The muzzle is the same length as the skull. The nose is black or liver, depending on the coat color. The eyes are medium sized and oval. They are either dark-hazel, in liver and white dogs, or dark brown, in black and white dogs. They have long, wide, pendant ears which hang close to the cheeks and can reach the nose when pulled forward. Their coat is medium length with feathering on the ears, cheeks, brisket and legs. Coat color can be liver and white, black and white, mostly white with black or liver markings, blue or liver roan, tricolor pattern of black and white or liver in white with tan markings on the eyebrows, cheeks, and ears.
English Springer Spaniels are even-tempered, gentle, friendly and social dogs. They make great companions to children. They are brave, playful, and energetic, as their constantly moving tails will prove. Springer Spaniels are affectionate and good natured. They love everyone, which does not lend itself to guarding behavior. Although they get along well with other animals, they should not be trusted with birds, as their innate instincts could take over.
This bred can do well in an apartment, as long as they get sufficient exercise. Springer spaniels can adapt well to town or city life. They are fairly inactive indoors, and would do best if they have access to an average-sized yard. They require a lot of exercise to keep them happy. Daily long walks or jogs will do the trick. They also love to retrieve and swim.
Springer Spaniels live best with active, outdoorsy types and families. They need a lifestyle which keeps them active and uses their natural instincts.
Photo: Courtesy of mister b 1138 via Flickr (CC by 2.0)