By Rika Subana

english springer spaniels

English Spaniel Springer is a breed of gun dog that has traditionally been used for both flushing and retrieving most type of air fowl, but is also capable of retrieving water fowl as well. So, obviously the dog is a hunting dog. However this dog has become a very common house pet in more recent days. This easy going dog can live between 10 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male dog is 19 to 21 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 45 to 55 pounds. The female ranges from 18 to 20 inches to the withers and 40 to 50 pounds.

The English Spaniel Springer is an intelligent dog and eager to please people. Although this dog is a very attentive and alert hunting dog, they also make a gentle, easy and loving house pet for any family. As with many playful dogs or hunting dogs bred as retrievers, the dog will play with things as simple as empty plastic bottles, socks, or towels. This spaniel is good with children, but because of their high activity and energy level, they need to be carefully watched and be used to children. This breed is generally okay with other pets. However it is not a good idea for them to be in a household where there is a bird because of their inherent hunting instinct.

Although the English Spaniel Springer has many good points, there is some bad behaviors to watch out. The dog can be a barker in certain situations. The spaniel also may get muddy if you give a chance. Although each dog is a little bit different, generally this breed needs a lot of activity and exercise with plenty of running around room, mental stimulation and a lot of attention. The dog is a good choice for an apartment if you are willing to jog with her or exercise her several times a day. So, the dog needs a lot of human interaction.

As in many dog breeds there are health issues for English Spaniel Springer. Hip dysphasia and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), are two such diseases for which veterinarians are working on genetic markers to determine carriers. This spaniel should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

The English Spaniel Springer has a moderately long coat which is composed of an inner and outer coat. She should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her. Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly.

Training an English Spaniel Springer is simple and very effective. It should also be fun for you and your dog, it doesn’t have to be hours and hours each day, just may be 5 minutes or so. Whether you’re training for the obedience ring at show or just at home, the spaniel is a delightfully easy breed that responds quickly to praise and positive reinforcement. However, this loving breed is sometimes easily distracted, so you have to be ready for a bit of a challenge. Another important thing in training this dog is you must keep your training sessions short and light. The dog also loves praise, almost as much as they love their owners. So, train your English Spaniel Springer with praise, toy rewards and even food rewards. Keep the treats light though, as the Springer can sometimes be prone to weight gain.