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English Springer SpanielEnglish Springer Spaniel Dog Breed Picture
Description
AKC Group: Sporting
A.K.A.: Springer
Functions: Hunting, Companion, Agility
Year of Origin: 1700s
Country of Origin: England
Life Span (yr): 12 - 14
Colors: Black with White, Liver with White, Liver Roan, Tri-color
Height (Inch): 19 - 20
Weight (lb): 40 - 55
Size: Medium
Hair Length: Medium
Energy: 2
Playfulness: 5
Ease of Training: 3
Exercise Needed: 5
Self Protection: 2
Grooming: 5
Shedding: 3
Watch Dog: 2
Living Area: 5

Appearance:

The English Springer Spaniel has a tight, muscular body and he usually has a tail that has been docked. His coat is soft and has beautiful feathering on his ears, legs, sides, and chest. His eyes are affectionate, gentle, and deep. They are mid-sized and shaped like almonds. They can be a rich hazel or a dark brown in color, depending on the color of their fur. The ears of the English Springer Spaniel are long and flowing. The thinness of the flap of the ear gives lends to his elegant appearance. The ears are even with the eyes and never cock upright or outwards.

Temperament:

The English Springer Spaniel is social animal who wants to please his owners. He can be classified as a happy dog, evident by the constant wagging of his short little tail. It suits him best when he is with people, as he is not a loner, and may even be up to mischief if left to his own devices for long periods of time. He is attentive and poised in even the most stressful of situations. He is friendly and never aggressive, even towards other animals, and is a great pet for children. The English Springer Spaniel is not timid or nervous, even when he is in a new situation. His intelligence can be seen through his willingness to obey and the speed in which he learns from his owner.

Health:

The English Springer Spaniel is generally a healthy dog; however, the eyes are the main things that are affected. Specifically, he is prone to Generalized Progressive Retinal Atrophy (causes blindness), Central Progressive Retinal Atrophy (causes vision loss but rarely causes blindness), Glaucoma, and Entropion (the eyelid folds in causing infection). He is also predisposed to a deficiency of an enzyme only found in his breed leading to a condition called Fucosidosis. Interestingly, many English Springer Spaniels suffer from hepatitis and Canine Autoimmune Disease, as well. On a more common level, he is may also experience hip dysplasia, a painful condition that may eventually limit his mobility; however, by watching his weight, its symptoms can be reduced. Epilepsy or seizures are also common.

Maintenance:

The English Springer Spaniel requires frequent brushing and combing so that he looks its best. Because of the length of his coat and the feathering on his body, he will have knots and mats if he is left un-groomed. In addition, a bath is only needed when he starts to develop an odor, or if special circumstances deem it necessary. Most owners trim the fur inside the ears to keep them clean and free from infection. In addition, the fur around the feet is typically trimmed, as well. The English Springer Spaniel is happiest when he is taken on a walk each day. He also enjoys running free, swimming and retrieving.