English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is one of the oldest flushing dogs in England. It is believed that its ancestors were brought into the kingdom by Roman conquerors, where they were crossed with local dogs. Early records from the 17th century already describe the hunting dog known today. The Springer Spaniel owes its development into a distinct Spaniel breed mainly to the Duke of Norfolk, who took an interest in this versatile and robust hunting dog. The first Spaniel Club in England was founded in 1885. Recognition by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), where the English Springer Spaniel is listed under number 125 in the group of retrievers, flushing dogs, and water dogs, occurred in 1954.

From Springer to Gun-Dog

The term “Springer” in its breed name refers to the dog’s original task. In old English hunting language, “springing the game” meant finding and flushing out game. These flushed partridges or runaway hares were initially caught with falcons, greyhounds, or nets. When hunters eventually took on this task themselves with guns, English Springer Spaniels became the so-called “Gun-Dogs”.

Breeding and Distribution

In its homeland of England, the English Springer Spaniel was one of the most popular dog breeds from 1946 until the 1970s. Even today, some Britons still appreciate it as both a hunting dog and a family dog. A large fan base also exists in France, The Netherlands, and Scandinavia. In other European countries, such as Germany or Austria, demand has only been increasing slowly in recent years. Unlike in the USA, where it reached 26th place among the most popular dog breeds, the Springer Spaniel remains rare in many countries.

Whether you find a breeder nearby depends largely on where you live. The best way to obtain a list of reputable breeders is to contact the official Spaniel Club in your country. Before contacting a breeder and arranging a personal meeting, you should clarify for yourself what you expect from your English Springer Spaniel and what goals you have with this dog.

Like many other breeds, the English Springer Spaniel has two breeding lines: a show (bench) line and a working line (“Field Trailer”). Those aiming for hunting success with their dog should opt for a field dog from a working line. Conversely, those seeking a friendly and lively family dog should choose a puppy from a beauty line.

© Frank Gärtner / stock.adobe.com

Ensure Reputable Breeding!

Whether you are looking for an ambitious working Spaniel or a pretty show Springer Spaniel, make sure to buy from a reputable breeder! Unfortunately, there are always “black sheep” among sellers who lure with low puppy prices and hope for a quick business at the expense of the dogs’ health and socialisation. To avoid unpleasant surprises later and to prevent having to deal with a sick or behaviourally disturbed (e.g., aggressive) Spaniel at home, be sure to consider the following points when choosing a breeder:

• Arrange a personal visit at the breeder’s home: Only on-site can you get a comprehensive picture of the breeding environment. A good breeding facility is bright and clean, and the dogs have close contact with the breeder’s family. The breeder should willingly show you everything (including the mother dog) and take time to answer your questions. A reputable breeder will also ask you many questions about your motivation and living conditions – after all, they want to ensure that the puppy will have a good life with you.
• Only buy puppies with documentation: Even if documents may not seem important to you – they guarantee that the breeder has adhered to the minimum standards regarding health and rearing. Dogs from so-called hobby breeding are usually not comprehensively tested for hereditary diseases and often suffer from conditions such as HD, ED, PRA (eye disease) or worse. Only a certified pedigree (with the FCI logo) gives you the certainty that your dog comes from a purebred and healthy line.
• Is the breeder a member of an association/club? Reputable breeders are usually associated with an overarching organisation or club. This often involves strict requirements for rearing and health that go beyond the minimum standards.
• Request health certificates! It is not enough that the puppies are wormed and vaccinated. They and their relatives should also be tested for specific diseases, such as HD, ED, FN, and hereditary eye diseases.
• Beware of newspaper ads, imports from abroad, and low puppy prices: Reputable breeders do not typically advertise their puppies on online classified ad platforms or in newspapers. It is best to contact a pedigree dog breeding association to get a list of breeders expecting puppies soon. Be cautious if the puppy price is significantly lower than £700. A purebred puppy from a reputable breeder has its price and usually costs between £900 and £1,200.

The following diseases are relatively common in the English Springer Spaniel breed. Most of the listed diseases can be detected through genetic testing. In order to prevent further spread, affected dogs must be excluded from breeding:

• Eye diseases: Including PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy, gradual retinal decay) or RPED (Retinal Pigment Epithelium Dystrophy).
• Fucosidosis: This disease typically manifests in the Springer Spaniel as a neurological disorder, involving motor or mental issues (e.g., impaired movement coordination, deafness, behavioural disorders, vomiting, or swallowing difficulties). Symptoms usually appear between the ages of 18 months and 4 years and can lead to death within weeks. Fucosidosis is most common in breeds from the UK and Australia. There is currently no effective therapy.
• Familial Nephropathy (FN): This kidney disease, caused by a genetic mutation, usually appears between 6 months and 2 years of age, manifesting as excessive thirst, slowed growth, weight loss, reduced appetite, and vomiting. This chronic kidney dysfunction can sometimes lead to the destruction of both kidneys and the dog’s death.
• Ear infections: Many English Springer Spaniels are prone to ear inflammations. Regular checking and cleaning of the ears can reduce this risk.
• Hip Dysplasia (HD) and Elbow Dysplasia (ED): Like many other medium to large dog breeds, the English Springer Spaniel sometimes suffers from joint problems. These are generally hereditary but can be exacerbated by a poor diet and excessive strain during the growth phase.

Not only genetic material, but also the right food and appropriate living conditions are crucial for a dog’s health. So, what is the right food for the English Springer Spaniel? And which feeding method is best? Essentially, none of the methods are objectionable as long as you can provide a healthy diet with both ready-made dog food and home-made meals – provided you follow some essential criteria.

Nutrient Requirements are Key

Depending on its age, weight, and activity level, a dog has specific needs for protein, fats, minerals, and vitamins. For instance, a dog that is very active in hunting will have different needs than a family dog content with small retrieving games each day. It’s crucial to consider this individual requirement when choosing food – making it difficult to give a blanket answer about the right food. Generally, an adult English Springer Spaniel should receive about 200 to 250g of muscle meat per day. Additionally, oats, rice, vegetables, and/or fruits should be provided. Alternatively, raw green tripe from beef (approx. 400 to 500g) can supply fibres. Fish (free of bones) and raw eggs are also excellent sources of protein.

If you prefer to prepare the food yourself, it’s best to feed raw. Only pork should always be cooked. Those who prefer commercial products should carefully inspect the ingredient list on the packaging. Grain, sugar or other sweeteners, artificial flavour enhancers, or chemical preservatives have no place in dog food. It is also possible to combine both dietary methods, providing homemade food at home and ready-made food when out and about. However, avoid frequent or abrupt changes between feeding types as they can quickly result in digestive issues.

How Much Care Does the English Springer Spaniel Need?

Regular care is just as essential for your dog as a balanced and healthy diet. The long hair of the English Springer Spaniel needs to be brushed and combed daily to prevent tangles and remove dead hairs. Special attention should also be paid to the ears of your Springer. As mentioned earlier, some Spaniels are prone to infections due to their long ears. Regular checking and daily cleaning can effectively prevent this. Your English Springer Spaniel should also be groomed at least four times a year (or more). Getting your dog accustomed to this grooming procedure early is wise so that it learns to stay still.