English Springer Spaniel - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) Origin

Spaniel-type dogs have been popular with hunters for centuries. They were amazing at flushing out the game. Initially all the spaniel types of dogs were interbred and it is believed, that English Springer Spaniel comes from the spaniels that were popular back than in the 1500 or 1600s. In the 1800s, the Duke of Norfolk developed his own spaniel, from them. The new breed was named as the Norfolk spaniel, but today, they are known as English Springer Spaniels.

2) Name

English Springer Spaniel name has its meaning. They are from England, they are Spaniels, but why are they called springer. When they were flushing out the game, they were sometimes actually causing the game to spring. This means, that they would chase birds into flight so that hunters can easily.

3) Two types

You can find two different types of the English Springer Spaniel, the field type and the bench type. Basically, the bench type is bred for the show ring, they are more elegant with longer coat and more feathering. The field type is bred directly for the hunt.

4) Balls and sticks

English Springer Spaniels love to retrieve, just like almost all the Spaniels. That is why you should have a lot of balls to play with, they just love it. Or if you are in the woods, every stick is a great potentional toy. Balls are amazing training reward for this breed. They also have pretty soft mouth, just like other breeds that love retrieving.

5) Activity level

English Springer Spaniels are active and energetic. This means they require a lot of exercise. And not only that, they are also very intelligent, so you need to stimulate their mind as well. If you will not do it, they will probably become destructive or even stressed and depressed. Daily longer walks or play sessions are a must with English Springer Spaniels.

6) Show dogs

It is true, that the original English Springer Spaniels purpose was hunting, and even today, they are still used for this purpose. But they also make extraordinary show dogs. They are the third most succesful breed in Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club, with their 6 titles.

7) Watchdogs

Even though they are too friendly to make good guards, they can make good watchdogs. They are known for their loud alarm bark, that will alert you when something or someone suspiccious is around your property.

8) Family companions

English Springer Spaniels make excellent companions for active families. They are friendly, fun loving, eager to please, quick to learn, and willing to obey. They are almost never agressive. English Springer Spaniels also make good companions for children, especially, if they are raised with them.

9) Size

The English Springer Spaniel is a medium sized sturdy dog with large and expressive eyes. Their average height is around 19 or 20 inches which is 48 – 50 cm. Their weight ranger from 40 – 55 pounds, which is 18-25 kgs.

10) Health

English Springer Spaniels are relatively pretty healthy dogs, with average lifespan between 10-15 years. But like all dog breeds, even they can suffer from some health issues, the most common would be the hip dysplasia, entropion, progressive retinal atrophy, skin and ear infections.