English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is another example of a breed initially developed for use as a gun dog, flushing and retrieving game. It is one of the many spaniel breeds.
Appearance
Developed initially as a working dog, recently the show dog lines have diverged from working dog lines, depending on which aspect of the dog the breeders have chosen to focus on. Males in the show dog line average 18 to 20 inches (45 to 50 cm),and weigh on average between 50 and 55 pounds (23 to 25 kg). Females are smaller, averaging closer to 40 pounds (18 kg). Dogs in the working-dog line tend to be smaller and lighter boned.
The working lines, often referred to as ?field-bred?, tend to have shorter, coarser coats than the show dogs. Their ears are less pendulous. Show-bred dogs tend to have a longer, more silky coat and are often predominantly dark coloured.
The coat comes in three different colour combinations.
- Black-and-white,
- liver-and-white, and
- either of these combinations with tan markings (usually on the cheeks and above the eyes).
Temperament
The Springer is an affectionate and lovable family dog, whilst its alertness and attentiveness make it the ideal hunting companion. Intelligent, and eager to please, a Springer is wonderful in a family setting. Good with children, it tends to have a moderate to high energy level. Its long-legged build makes it the fastest of the spaniels. It has unlimited stamina and needs plenty of activity to focus its mind and to provide substantial exercise.
Like any breed described as ?good with children?, a Springer Spaniel must be accustomed to children. Any dog that is not well socialised with children will not behave predictably around them.Good with children, does not mean Sonny Jim can ride them like a poney and expect puppy to be happy. They are ?soft? dogs, that are not up for toddlers falling on them. These dogs will play with things as simple as empty plastic bottles, socks, or towels. These spaniels easily remember where such things are kept and are good at getting them out.
Some people say that English Springer Spaniels are like Velcro, because they want to stick to their owner. If the owner walks to the other side of a room, so does the English Springer Spaniel. Unless trained from a young age, some may become agitated and whine if they cannot get near people that they know are nearby.
Health
As with most breeds, there are some possible breed specific health issues to look out for. Hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) are two diseases which may occur, so don;t forget to check your breeders breed history
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