Sporting Group
English Springer Spaniel
Champion Pedigree
Eager
Friendly
Gun Dog
Named for its ability to "spring" game birds into flight for hunters, the English Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized gun dog known for its silky, feathered coat and endlessly eager disposition. Versatile in the field and gentle at home, it remains a popular family and sporting breed.
Lifespan
12–14 years.
Did You Know?
The English Springer Spaniel and the Cocker Spaniel were once considered the same breed, separated primarily by size before being recognized as distinct breeds in the early 20th century.
Breed Traits
Size
Males 20 in. tall, 50 lbs; females 19 in. tall, 40 lbs.
Energy Level
High — needs substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Coat & Grooming
Silky, feathered double coat; moderate to heavy shedder, regular grooming needed.
Good With Families
Friendly and gentle with children; sociable with other dogs and people alike.
Registry Record
Also Known As
Springer
Origin
England, separated from the Cocker Spaniel as a distinct breed in the early 1900s.
Typical Litter Size
6 to 8 puppies.
Club Recognitions
AKC, FCI, KC (UK), CKC
Disposition
Eager to please, friendly, and biddable; generally easy to train given its cooperative, people-oriented temperament.
Coat Colors
Black and white, liver and white, or tricolor.
Working Roles
Historically a bird-flushing and retrieving gun dog; still popular among hunters and field-trial competitors today.
Health & Wellness
Generally healthy, though ear infections, hip dysplasia, and a hereditary eye condition are worth screening for.
Notable English Springer Spaniels
Millie
A Springer Spaniel who lived in the White House during the George H. W. Bush administration.
Field Trial Champions
A dominant breed in bird-hunting field trials for decades.
Registry Champions
A consistent presence in the sporting group at conformation shows.
Related Reading
English Springer Spaniel Gifts
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