English Springer Spaniel

English Springer Spaniel dog

Energetic sporting dog known for flushing game and working closely with people.

Size Weight Height Lifespan
Medium 40 - 50 lbs 19 - 20 inches 12 - 14 years
(These are estimates and may vary.)

Origin: United Kingdom



Own a English Springer Spaniel? Share what activities they enjoy to help other dog owners.

Running Digging Swimming Exploring Playing with Toys Obedience Training Tracking Herding Fetch Hiking Socializing Tug Of War Frisbee Chewing Agility Training Cuddling Guarding Hunting

Know a English Springer Spaniel? Share their personality traits to help other dog owners.

Clever Protective Affectionate Stubborn Confident Fearless Friendly Docile Energetic Calm Patient Aggressive Gentle Sociable Adaptable Playful Independent Clever Agile Loyal

May be a good fit if you:

  • Want a dog that is generally responsive to consistent, positive training.
  • Are looking for a breed that generally does well with children.
  • Want a dog that generally gets along well with other dogs.

Things to consider:

  • This breed may not do well when left alone for long periods.
  • Coat maintenance may require significant regular grooming.

The English Springer Spaniel developed from Britain's long tradition of land spaniels used to locate and flush game for hunters. Before modern breeds were standardized, spaniels were often classified more by size and working role than by strict pedigree. Smaller dogs might be used to hunt woodcock and eventually became associated with the Cocker Spaniel, while larger dogs could "spring" birds and other game from cover so hunters could take a shot. Remarkably, dogs that would later be considered Cockers and Springers could once appear in the same litter. As organized dog breeding expanded during the 19th and early 20th centuries, these working types were separated into distinct breeds. Britain's Kennel Club recognized the English Springer Spaniel as a separate breed in 1902. Springers proved useful both before and after the widespread adoption of modern firearms because of their ability to search thick cover, flush game, and retrieve. Over time, show and working lines developed somewhat different appearances, with field-bred dogs generally selected more heavily for hunting performance. The breed's eagerness, stamina, strong nose, and desire to stay connected with its handler remain central characteristics.

Frequently Asked Questions About English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is not generally considered hypoallergenic. Individual allergy reactions can vary.

The English Springer Spaniel tends to have a moderate level of shedding.

The English Springer Spaniel tends to need significant regular grooming and coat maintenance.

The English Springer Spaniel is generally a high-energy breed that tends to enjoy an active routine.

The English Springer Spaniel tends to need plenty of regular physical activity and mental stimulation.

The English Springer Spaniel is generally highly trainable and tends to respond well to consistent, positive training.

The English Springer Spaniel generally tends to do well with children when properly socialized and supervised.

The English Springer Spaniel generally tends to get along well with other dogs when properly socialized.

The English Springer Spaniel is generally considered relatively approachable for first-time dog owners.

The English Springer Spaniel generally tends to adapt well to apartment living when its exercise and enrichment needs are met.