English Springer Spaniel

English Springer Spaniel

A keen and active dog, the English Springer Spaniel is the oldest of the Spaniel breeds and is probably the forebear of most Spaniel breeds and field dogs.

History:

Although the name "Spaniel" would suggest a Spanish origin, Spaniels have been known in Britain since the Middle Ages. Early in the nineteenth century, breeders began to develop different Spaniels for different types of hunting - on land, and in water. By the middle 1800s, the Springer was well-established, and given its name because of its special ability to "spring" after game. The first club for the breed was established in Britain in 1885, with official recognition in 1902. Within ten years, the breed was registered in Canada and America.

Physical characteristics:

A strong, medium-sized dog with the strength and willingness to run all day, and the patience and social skills to be a popular family pet. Height: 20 in (51 cm) for the dog and 19 in (48.3 cm) for the bitch. Weight: 49 - 55 lb (22 - 25 kg) under Canadian standards, elsewhere not specified.

The skull is fairly broad with a slightly rounded dome. The face is medium-length and well-chiseled below, with a fluting between the eyes. The nostrils are well-developed and the nose color is black or liver, depending on the coat color. The jaws are strong and square and have a scissor bite. The eyes are dark hazel, set well apart, and well set in, with an alert and friendly expression. The ears are long, set level with the eyes and hang close to the head. The neck is well muscled, long, and blends into slightly sloping shoulders. The body is strong and well-proportioned, with well-sprung ribs and a slightly arched loin.

The forequarters are straight with abundant feathering. The hindquarters are muscular and well let-down from haunch to hock. The tail is set low, often docked, but if left is well-feathered and an active wagger.

The coat of the Springer Spaniel is flat and soft, quite long and close to the skin. There is feathering on the ears, forelegs, body and hindquarters. The coat color is black and white, liver and white, or sometimes either of the two mixtures, with tan markings.

Behavior:

The English Springer Spaniel is a robust and intelligent dog. It has a great ability to learn and really thrives on the attention given by its owner. Although originally a gun dog bred for flushing out or springing game, this dog is now most often kept as a companion animal. Its good looks and usually gentle manner make it ideally suited as a family dog. However, it is advisable to maintain a firm control on this dog throughout its life, as the males in particular can become very bossy. Care should be taken to trim the hair between the dog's toes, and it is wise to check the ears periodically. This dog should be exercised regularly and loves to swim.