The English Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized hunting dog. His ancestry
comes from hunting dogs of Spain. He was used to flush or "spring"
birds from cover. They were recognized as a separate breed from Cocker and
Field Spaniels during the late 1800s. They became popular in the United
States in the 1920s.
The English Springer Spaniel is friendly, eager to please, quick to learn
and willing to obey. He is a gundog with unlimited stamina so he thrives
on physical activity.
The English Springer is of medium size, built to cover rough ground with
speed and agility. His skull should be flat on top with his muzzle the same
length as the skull. The eyes are of medium size, set wide apart. The color
of the iris should harmonize with the coat color. The expression in the
eyes is one of alertness and trust. The jaws should be square and strong,
with a scissors bite. The upper lip should cover the lower lipline but not
hang too far below it. The ears are set level with the eye and hang long
and wide close to the cheeks. The neck is muscular. He is the leggiest of
the springer-type spaniels. The legs are muscular and the feet are webbed
for swimming. The back is short with a level topline. From the side, he
should appear to be square in build. The tail is docked and carried horizontally.
The coat is moderately long and glossy. Acceptable colors include a combination
of white with liver or black. The legs, ears, chest and brisket have longer
hair or featherings. The average weight of an English Springer is between
forty-five and fifty-five pounds while the average height is between eighteen
and twenty-two inches at the shoulder.
Name withheld by request of Phoenix, AZ writes:
Smart, almost human if you let them be.
I was just reading the reviews and I am very surprised at some of them.
I have had ESS for years now and never have I seen a dumb Springer or a
lazy Springer. ESS are very intelligent dogs and they can sense things that
will astonish you. They are loyal and protective and sometimes even a little
jealous. They can understand everything you say and they know how you are
feeling. They get upset when you do and they love when you are happy. They
know if you are scared and will defend you to the death if need be without
even thinking twice or backing down for an instant. They actually seem to
think they are humans and they seem to expect you to think they are too.
They do get mad and they also get depressed at times, but they can spring
right back as soon as you realize something is wrong and talk to them and
ask them what is bothering them, spend some time with them and instantly
they are back to their old selves. They are amazing animals and also very
beautiful ones too. For the people who had bad experiences with them I am
sorry for that but I'm afraid you were one of few and maybe you should visit
someone who has an ESS and find out how much of a joy they really are.
Name withheld by request of North Bergen, NJ writes:
A unique, remarkable breed for the right owner.
I currently own two Springer Spaniels and a Toy Fox Terrier. The female
is five and the male is three. I have certainly had my moments with both
of them, but what dog owner hasn't? Interestingly enough, they are complete
opposites. Originally, I thought that the female might have a "rage"
problem. She is pampered, stubborn, and can be aggressive at times. She
has a tendency to get possessive over toys, and bares her teeth and growls
when I try to remove her from the couch or bed. But she shows no aggression
toward the two other dogs even if they steal her food. Through trial and
error I have found that the best way to deal with her is to remind her that
I am her alpha. When she bares her teeth, I bare mine and sternly command
her to stop her behavior. If she will not stop, I found that a spray of
lemon juice in her mouth is enough to subdue her. A lot of the time her
bad behavior is a reaction to me not paying attention to her (it's hard
with three dogs all pining for your affection). I take time out to reward
good behavior with treats and one-on-one time. She really likes it when
I put the other dogs in another room and spend some time with her alone.
Since I have really tried to understand her aggressive behavior, I have
realized that it is a form of play and dominance. My reaction determines
how serious the issue can become. With patience and a little bit of behavior
modification, she has become the most loyal, cuddly companion.
The male is slower, cautious, and extremely needy. This Springer has not
an ounce of aggression in his body which works to his disadvantage when
in playing with his sister. During playtime he is the first one to yelp.
He is the dog that everyone wishes for. There is this radiance of happiness
that glows behind his eyes constantly. He wags his tail while he eats. He
bounces like a puppy when he walks.
There have been times, especially after doing research about the breed,
where I thought I may not be a suitable owner (I work full time in the city).
But, the key is understanding the needs of the breed, tendency toward agressive
behavior, necessity of exercise, and a lot of affection. Once an owner is
willing to make those needs a priority, owning a Springer is incredibly
rewarding. One similarity between both dogs is that they are extremely social.
They adore spending time with new people. They also do very well with other
dogs. I was afraid they'd run all over the Toy Fox Terrier but much to my
surprise, he is probably the more aggressive of the three. He keeps the
Springers in line when he doesn't appreciate the rough play. They must know
his size because they show a softer side when playing with him. They are
very protective of each other and the little one. I do work full time and
have had to get a dog-walker to exercise them during the day. The female
has developed a urinary tract problem from not being able to urinate enough
during the day. This appears to be quite common with female Spaniels in
general. So a dog-walker may be necessary if you work during the day. Due
to their floppy ears, they need a good ear cleaning weekly to avoid developing
infection. They should get used to this procedure if done consistently from
the time they are puppies.
I highly recommend this breed to someone who will be able to be patient,
understanding, and flexible at times. In conclusion, don't you think that
these tips should be applied to any breed?
ajw231@hotmail.com of California writes:
You MUST do your research first.
Our family had a Springer for about nine years. I would caution any
family that has small kids about getting one of these beauties. We could
never trust him alone with our two little girls for fear of him snapping.
We've been told he had "springer rage" and I completely believe
it. He was jumping over our walls on a daily basis so that he could hunt
down our mailman or anyone else who walked by our house. Trust me, we tried
everything to keep him in the backyard, raised the walls, put objects in
the way, keeping him chained, etc. I believe that this would be a wonderful
breed to have if you have plenty of acres for them to romp around in, but
not a suburban setting. Please do your research first. These are very active,
sporty dogs, they just need the right home that can handle them and will
love them dearly.
smitty5.9@tx3.net of Enumclaw, WA writes:
Awesome hunting ability.
Eager to please, eager to hunt, no matter how tired or injured they
may be. This is the most lovable and happy dog I have ever owned. She's
small enough as an adult that I can pick her up as well as get into the
thickest brush to flush a pheasant. Her disposition around people and other
dogs is inviting. Even friends/family who aren't considered "dog people"
have taken a fondness to her.
My recommendations for anyone considering an ESS: If you don't hunt, or
if you live in the city or an apartment, or if you haven't the time every
day to have interactive play, you shouldn't get one of these high energy
dogs. They are bred to hunt. They have the desire to please and want your
approval. It would be a disgrace to withhold what comes so natural to them.
Name withheld by request of North Carolina writes:
Loving, caring and active companions.
These dogs are one of my favorite breeds to have. They are great family
dogs. My Springer would follow me to the end of the world if need be. They
are very loyal dogs and great watchdogs. Do be aware of the Springer rage.
As everyone else has mentioned, you need to research the parents and the
breed before getting one.
I would not trade our dog for anything else. He loves to play as soon as
you get home from work, but within ten minutes, he is ready to jump on the
couch and cuddle. He is great off lead and will not run off or go out of
sight. We also have a Dachshund and they are best friends. This breed trains
easily and are great companions. They love food and will do about anything
for it.
Although I love my Springer, he is some work. He drools when he drinks water,
so we put his water on the deck. He does have some allergies, but after
changing to a better food brand and giving him a Benadryl once a day during
allergy season, he is good to go. A home remedy for the ear infections is
a little bit of distilled white vinegar in the ear for a week and it is
cured. Since finding this out and keeping his ears dry, our dog rarely has
ear infections. He does shed, but we give him haircuts in the summer when
it is hot and trim him in the winter. He does have a little temperament
problem around people he does not know, but once he meets you, he is good
to go.
They love water of any kind: hose, shower, lake, stream or ocean. If you
are a coastal resident, you would love a Springer. Our Springer loves the
water and could not think of any place better to be except on the bow of
the boat with his ears flapping in the wind or in the water swimming around!
wkienke@aol.com of New York writes:
The smartest dog we have ever had.
Our Springer is now eight years old. She seems to understand everything
we say to her. And she makes sure we understand everything she says. She
is field bred but is a family pet. If you could sit with her all day and
pet her she would be in her glory. Will do anything for a cookie. Loves
to run in the yard. Birds and cats are fair game. If they are smart they
live elsewhere. Two bad habits: countersurfing and stealing tissues or toilet
paper. Her health has been good with no typical Springer maladies. While
she was a little on the wild side when she was young she has calmed down.
She is really a good dog.
Name withheld by request of U.S. writes:
Not for everyone.
While I think this breed makes a great hunting dog and a beautiful,
showy Breed ring dog, they're not the best pet for most people. They're
among the most hyperactive of dogs, and they are hard to train as a result
of being so easily distracted and hyper. Many are dominantly aggressive.
They're dirty (enjoying rolls in the mud) and can be quite a lot of hassle,
generally. They're barkers. Many are submissive urinaters. They belong in
the country, outside, running the fields. I'd never recommend one as a household
pet.
starfruitleo@hotmail.com of Portland, OR writes:
Great dog.
Anyone who disagrees must have gotten a poorly bred one. Looking at
the reviews for this dog I've noticed that there are lots of good reviews
and only a couple of bad ones. Obviously these people got a poorly bred
dog or they never researched dogs enough to find out that a Springer wasn't
for them. I feel badly that they had a bad experience with a breed that
I love. Springers are great dogs. Eager to learn, obey, and please you,
affectionate, and playful.
ess@essft.com of Minnesota writes:
There are two ESSs: a show dog and a field dog.
If you are looking to purchase an English Springer Spaniel, know the
difference between the show-bred, and the field-bred dogs. These two dogs
have been bred differently for the last 68 years. Even though the AKC only
registers one English Springer Spaniel, these are TWO different dogs! Know
which one you want. The field-bred ESS is bred for working, and has a temperament
which works very well with people, families, and other dogs. For more information
on the differences between these two dogs, go to: http://www.essft.com/fieldshow.html.
Here, you will learn which English Springer Spaniel, will be best for you!
kuduu@hotmail.com of the U.S. writes:
The best of dogs.
I've owned three English Springers and all of them have been great dogs.
The one I have now is extraordinary and may be that "one great dog"
we each are supposed to get in a lifetime. He is big, strong build, obedient
(mostly), alert, eager to please, attentive (if I'm upset he comes and leans
on me), ever my companion and always close by. He has been mellow all his
life, and as a pup was charming and a mischief. He has matured into a dog
people stop and comment on, well mannered, doesn't bark, doesn't have too
many bad habits. ESS dogs are food-oriented and they can be beggars and
mine is no exception, and he has dug holes when penned, but I don't blame
him and doubt any dog suffers containment willingly. He has been generally
healthy with the main problems being yeast infections in the ears (common
for floppy-eared dogs) and impacted anal glands which I finally had removed.
My vet said that is a problem for some Springers. He had mild allergies
that he grew out of, generally he's been a joy. The biggest problem with
him is that he is not immortal and I shall be devastated when he dies. It's
important to get a good dog, from good lines. That may not mean an "offical"
breeder, but it does mean asking questions. Rage, dysplasia, eyelid problems
and other issues exist. But they are wonderful dogs.
Name withheld by request of new Zealand writes:
Amazing.
From my experience, they are so beautiful with amazing sweetness of
disposition. They are completely lovable, and thrive on affection. They
could sit all day with you, just being stroked and cuddled. They LOVE swimming
and running, and need (and love) lots of exercise so they don't get tubby
- they also like to eat. Always completely devoted to their families, not
inclined to fight with other dogs or pets. They can be stubborn when it
comes to training or letting go of a hedgehog which they've sniffed out,
but really, you just gotta love 'em.
HollyDolly1854@aol.com of Des Moines, IA writes:
Not a mean bone in his big body.
Honestly, I had never even heard of a Springer Spaniel until my parents
decided to get one when I left for college. I was a little apprehensive
at first, considering we already had a ten-year-old Maltese female. However,
our 60-pound Springer (he's a big boy! But perfectly proportioned and so
fine looking) meshed with our family. We shower him with lots of affection,
and whenever I go home, he immediately puts his "sock" into my
hand so we can play a good game of tug-of-war. While he did have a destructive
phase when he was a puppy (i.e., THREE beds, two pairs of Birkenstocks and
a couch), he's grown out of that and is such a love. Our Springer loves
to go for walks, and loves to torment our other dog. But at the end of the
day, they cuddle together and act like brother and sister. If you can survive
their destructive phase, I think Springers are so delightful and a wonderful
pet.
Name withheld by request of Canada writes:
Friendly, lovable, loyal ... who could ask for anything more?
I am a first time ESS owner and have become totally dedicated to the
breed. They are extremely intelligent, loving and willing to please. My
Springer goes everywhere with me. From birth I took her to work with me,
where she was able to run around the theatre while I set lights. She became
a mascot of the building, always willing to greet people with a tail that
never stopped, earning her the name wiggle-bum. The breed is excellent with
children and other dogs, showing a protective streak only when their master
is threatened. This is a breed that learns quickly, and not because you
need to bribe it with treats. Rather, they learn because of their intelligence
and the fact that they like to see you smile. An English Springer Spaniel
is also great for your health, as the exercise needed to keep them happy
is bound to get even the worst couch potato in shape. Afterwards, they are
excellent at curling up and snoozing with you on the couch. You will never
have a more loving friend than an ESS.
Name withheld by request of Gig Harbor, WA writes:
Springers are good companions but not for everyone.
We owned a gorgeous male Springer, black and white, 50 pounds, who was
named Walker because he was the first one to walk in his litter. He was
very sweet-tempered and mellow for a Springer (when he was around us!).
We didn't purchase him from an AKC breeder, just someone advertising purebreds
in the paper. While his mother and grandfather didn't seem to fit the perfect
profile of the breed, Walker got the best of both sides and turned out beautiful.
He was definitely the strongest and most playful of the litter. He had a
great coat that water just slid off of, and he loved to swim and fetch anything
you threw in the water no matter how far. In fact, a few times he even pointed
when we threw items in dense brush for him to fetch. He was so tireless
in his pursuit we thought he could have been a good hunter.
He was very attached to us and all he wanted to do was be inside and be
part of the family. However, since we were gone a lot of the day and he
tended to get very dirty romping around our two-plus acres, we had to keep
him outside most of the time. At first we tried a kennel with a doghouse,
but he just about wore down his teeth trying to pull the chain-link apart
and barked himself hoarse. We compromised by letting him stay on our covered
deck outside our kitchen/dining room where he could see us. He never wandered,
and was always on the porch sleeping when we came home.
Eventually we moved to the suburbs and he became notorious for rushing UPS
trucks and joggers. Interestingly, he rarely went past our property lines.
Walker was very protective and would bark ferociously at strangers, especially
people who were visibly afraid of dogs. If people were confident, he became
submissive but always had a cautious look about him that made us wonder
what he was going to do.
Walker snapped a couple of times at some kids. One was a toddler who moved
too quickly to pet him. The others were a couple of ten-year-old girls who
had been roughhousing with him inside and when they turned around, he ran
up behind them and nipped one girl in the hand. The first time he was frightened,
but the second time he was just excited and wanted to play more. Even so,
it gave the kids (and us!) a good scare. After that, we were very careful
to introduce him to children very slowly, with one of us holding his collar
at all times. After we had our own child (now three), he did fairly well
with kids as long as they didn't tease him.
Walker tended to get destructive if we didn't spend enough time with him.
He would chew, dig holes, scratch doors, bark incessantly, and chase cats
(even our three cats that he was normally very friendly with). He really
needed a lot of attention and loved to follow us wherever we went.
He was not very good with commands, but that's because we didn't give him
much training. He would come and sit, but only when HE wanted to. Since
he liked being around us, it usually didn't take a lot of effort to get
him to comply. But getting him to wait while we threw a ball, or sit, or
lie down was very hard. Since he was outside most of the time, we never
bothered to potty-train him. If we had taken him to obedience school, it
probably would have made a big difference.
We initially bought Walker because we already had one Springer, a three-year
old non-AKC, liver and white male named Rusty, who we felt needed more companionship.
However, we soon realized we'd made a mistake trying to pair up two males.
They fought all the time, and Rusty ended up being a mean aggressor. He
was on the smaller side, about 45 pounds, and had bad eczema and flea allergies.
His coat didn't handle water well so he disliked swimming. He was very unpredictable
and flighty. He would jump up on us all the time and knock me over at a
dead run (I'm 135 pounds). Even with obedience school he was never well
behaved, but then again, we weren't all that consistent either. We ended
up giving him to another home, a retired couple with lots of acreage where
Rusty could be a one-family dog. But we are still very sad about it. What
we really needed to do was give him more of our time.
Walker ended up being a good dog; I'd rate him a three overall compared
to other breeds I've owned and a four for Springers. When I became a stay-at-home
mom, I had more time to spend with him and his behavior improved markedly.
He still tended to chase cars and bark non-stop at strangers until we introduced
him, but he was not as apt to chew on things, bark from boredom or worry
the cats. I trusted him enough with my daughter that I would have allowed
him to stay inside except for my recent allergies and the fact that he wasn't
potty-trained. We were about to put up a fence this past summer when he
died at ten years old from some unknown condition. He ended up having a
heart attack and the vets couldn't revive him.
Walker was special to us, and I would recommend the breed to anyone who
wants a friendly, loyal, tireless, and cheerful companion. They were bred
to hunt, so they are definitely active, but trainable if you're consistent
and willing to follow through. Beware of Springer rage p; it is not
a myth! An acquaintance of mine had one who nearly bit her thumb off. There
were times I wondered if ours might have had a tad bit of it too. So definitely
go to a reputable breeder and check on the parents and grandparents if you
can. It's worth the money and time to get a good dog, but make sure you're
a good fit for the dog too.
Name withheld by request of Houston, Texas writes:
Field-bred English Springer Spaniels are tops!
I have a four-year-old field-bred English Springer Spaniel. He is the
most intelligent dog I have ever owned. He is always eager to please and
is kind and gentle with my children. He is a great hunter! Remember that
the breed's origin was a hunting breed. Hunting breeds needed to be strong
and have good health. They also had to be intelligent and trainable. Even
temperaments were a must in a kennel situation, and aggressive dogs were
culled. These days the breed can really be divided into two groups; show
and field. The show lines have mainly put the physical appearance as the
main priority. Sadly those who rated this breed poorly more than likely
had these dogs. The second group, the field-bred dogs have been bred to
retain the above mentioned traits. The resulting dog is one that is pleasure
to be around, well-mannered and loving. Quick to catch on, retrieve a thrown
ball for hours, play with the kids and on the weekends hunt with me all
season long. All that heart and soul given to us and all he asks for in
return is a warm place to sleep, food to eat and a little bit of TLC. Can
I say enough good things about this breed? In a word, no.
glamgurl_traci@hotmail.com of Ohio writes on 5/9/01:
Good pets, though there are downsides!
I would recommend a Springer to a family. You shouldn't get a Springer if
sports are what you are looking for, though. Once in a while they'll retrieve
a frisbee,but they are mainly easygoing and just like to lay around. When
they are in their puppy stage watch out! Like many other breeds, trouble
is their thing! Make your house thoroughly puppy-proof beforehand! These
dogs are excellent around young children, and don't give them as much as
a care. Springers are very loyal though at times they are confused! No offense
Springers, but sometimes these dogs tend to be just plain dumb! I grew up
as a child with a Springer, and I remember dressing her up, and inviting
her to tea parties and such. But she never seemed to mind! Sadly, last year
we had to get her put to sleep. She was 12 years old.
Well I would definitely reccomend an English Springer Spaniel as your family
pet!
bailey9@nbnet.nb.ca of St. John, NB writes on 11/10/00:
The best dog I have owned.
I'm a first time ESS owner and she is the best dog I have ever owned. We
always had Cocker Spaniels and the last two we owned had bad temperments.
So my daughter got married and moved out and got an ESS. My dog is a field
bred bundle of energy and love! She has a great temperment and a sweet personality!
She is MY best friend in the world, 2 legged people included!
bailey9@nbnet.nb.ca of St.John, N.S., Canada writes on 10./31/00:
Cannot imagine life without my girl!
I am a first time ESS owner. We had Cocker Spaniels for over 12 years, and
our last Cocker, did not have a good temperment! I knew I would never own
another cocker spaniel if something ever happened to ours. When our Cocker
had to be put to sleep, I knew I wanted an ESS, nothing else would do. Sure
enough, two weeks after he died, we got our beautiful springer. She is now
2 years old and is a wonderful companion and family pet! She has a beautiful
temperment and makes strangers seem like family. She is also a bit of a
"free spirit", when she gets something in that little head of
hers, it takes alot of coaxing to change her mind! That's what makes her
so fun to live with. I think of my life in 2 stages now, before my ESS and
since her! She is MY true blue friend!
replay43@aol.com of Redondo Beach CA writes on 8/12/00:
The greatest.
Our two boys are absolutely the greatest friends I've ever been owned by.
Although brothers in the same breed, they have different personalities,
both totally dissarming and wonderful in all ways. They are the "show
bred" variety but they think they are hunters, forever ready to jump
in the truck and ride to the fields where they run and romp. Springers are
the best kept secret as far as greatest family and all around loving dogs.
Hope it stays that way and the breeding will not get out of hand.
dwalt43250@alltel.net of Cleveland, OH writes on 6/1/00:
My ESS has more personality than I do!
Our Springer is not a hunter nor particularly worthy of championship ranking.
But she is probably the best dog we've ever had. After owning a Golden who
bolted out the door and across the street at every opportunity, it was a
pleasure to be able to unload groceries out of the car trunk with the dog
at my side, dutifully "retrieving" anything I dropped and bringing
it into the house. She is our family "ambassadog". She loves pizza
guys, mailmen, anything but other dogs. Our only problem is that she has
been diagnosed since the age of four with "hip laxity" which one
day will probably cause us to euthanize her. It isn't displaysia, but is
heriditary and will eventually cause her to lose control of her rear legs.
I know that we will get another Springer, though.
Name withheld by request of Philipsburg, PA writes on 4/25/00:
Excellent companion.
Although there are problems in the breed, such as "rage" and dominance
aggression, there are many more excellent tempermented Springers out there
than bad ones! My 2 year old Springer is one of my best friends, and he
is excellent with children! They are excellent, versatile hunters, and for
years were known as the poor man's hunting dog because they could be trained
to hunt whatever you wanted. Although origionally bred to hunt upland game,
they can also retrieve waterfowl and hunt rabbits. They are tireless and
can go longer than any hunter I have met. They are excellent in obedience,
tracking, and agility. They need a firm hand to show them direction, but
they are extremly eager to please and hardworking. I wouldn't give up my
Springer for any other dog.
doglover811@netzero.net of New York writes on 4/23/00:
Very friendly and affectionate.
The English Springer Spaniel is an amazing breed. It is one of the best
breeds I have ever had experience with. They are extremely friendly and
affectionate. They make great family pets. The require a lot of excercise
and outdoor time. They are your constant shadow, following you where ever
you go. Give them lots of attention and excecise, and they'll be a most
wonderful pet!
jda48@juno.com of Dallas, TX write son 2/8/00:
The ultimate best friend.
In 1994 my husband suggested that we get a dog for our children's Christmas.
ANOTHER dog. Because I had just endured an ASPCA mongrel 10 years prior
to my husband's brilliant idea, the last thing I wanted was ANOTHER dog!
He brought home a "how to know what kind of breed would suit you"
book from the book store. Because I did not want to get my husband's hopes
up about the possibility of me relenting to his idea, I secretly took the
dog compatability test in the book. (My husband had already taken the "test").
He showed me his score, unaware that I was familiar with the test. Not only
were our scores identical, he picked the English Springer as his #1 choice
for a pet. I had done the same. My first reaction was one of horror! (I
DID NOT WANT ANOTHER DOG!).
My second reaction was total astonishment! To make a long story short, I
followed the guidelines in the book about how to find a reputable breeder.
I asked her all of the questions that the book told me to ask. It was love
at first sight when I walked into baggage claim and saw her precious little
eyes peering back at me from the crate. I could almost hear her say, "Are
you my Mommy?". When we purchased her and brought her home, we had
no idea that the transformation that would take place in our family would
be one of such pure joy. She has brought the meaning of unconditional love
to life in it's truest sense!
I guess I am truly hooked on this breed. I love dogs. However, the English
Springer Spaniel is probably the sweetest, closest thing to Heaven that
we have ever experienced.
c.grainger@sk.sympatico.ca of Saskatchewan writes on 10/.29/99:
The best overall hunting dogs there is!
The English Springer Spaniel is one of the most intelligent, hard working
hunting dogs there is. I would never want to hunt with anything else. In
my family we are all hunters. Four of us have had at least one Springer.
They have all been amazing! They never quit working whether it is hunting
heavy cover or throwing the buck around. They will easily out last you in
the field. As far as a family dog, we all have had one when there were babies
around. Not once did they ever attack a child. Even after the child pulled
their ears or hit them. Just about everyone who has hunted with us and our
dogs has gone on to buy one themselves. They don't train themselves, and
it does take some work, but they are eager to please and learn fast. It
does not get any better than a Springer!
truna@webtv.net of the U.S. writes on 10/11/99:
Caution!
English Springer Spaniels have been bred for a gorgeous appearance. Unfortunately,
temperament seems to have taken a backseat in importance to many breeders.
There are A LOT of bad temperaments in this breed. I would never recommend
them for families with children. Dominance aggression is particularly common.
Idiopathic aggression or "springer rage" is also all too common
as well.
mchesney@ncfreedom.net of Maysville, NC writes on 10/10/99:
A wonderful family dog both in your lap or outside playing
The English Springer Spaniel is sometimes known as a breed that is somewhat
divided by breeding in two directions, one is "show-bred" the
other is "field-bred". It is the same breed but bred with somewhat
different focuses. The "show" bred Springer is bred for it's beauty,
soundness, and emphasis on good health, wonderful movement and stature.
However, it is also bred with the "intent" that this beautiful
and loving dog is also structurally sound enough to preform well in the
field. Most "show" breeders do not work their Springers in field
work, as they are actively showing their dogs with wonderful coats in the
show ring. This is the "goals" of the conscientious breeder. The
breeder keeps temperament a top priority as the Springer is a wonderful
family pet and makes a great "house" dog. Their energy level is
most compatible for both living in the home and retrieving balls outside
with kids.
The "field" Springer is well known for its tremendous ability
in the field. It is bred with its inherited ability to hunt and retrieve
as a top priority. A conscientious "field" Springer breeder also
keeps health and temperament as an important part of their breeding plan.
"Beauty" is not as important to a "field breeder". The
field Springer excells at hunting and retrieving and is an excellent hunting
dog and family pet.
A well bred English Springer Spaniel (field or show) can have a wonderful
personality and at times a "clown-like" sense of humor. They can
live a long life when carefully bred and well cared for. They are a medium
sized dog that can feel at home in the house or yard (though they seem to
particularly love to be indoors with their owners). They are happy with
their head and paw in your lap on the couch or matching your "every-step"
outside. They LOVE food! And will do almost anything for a "treat".
I have found them easy to train ... and even more easy to love.