English Springer Spaniel - Dog breed

The English Springer Spaniel is a breed of gun dog traditionally used for flushing and retrieving game. It is one of many spaniel breeds.

Appearance

The English Springer Spaniel represents perhaps the greatest divergence between working and show lines of any breed of dog. A field-bred dog and a show-bred dog appear to be different breeds, but are registered together. In fact, the gene pools are almost completely segregated and have been for at least 70 years.
Males in the show dog line average approximately 18 to 20 inches (45 to 50 cm) at the withers and weigh on average between 50 and 55 pounds (23 to 25 kg). Females are generally smaller, averaging closer to 40 pounds (18 kg). According to the UK (FCI) Breed Standard, the English Springer Spaniel should be of the following size, 51 cm, or approximately 20 inches at the withers. Show dogs have longer fur and more pendant ears, dewlaps and dangling flews. (Fergus, 2002) The tail is docked to a short stub in those countries which permit docking. They are generally more thickly boned and heavier than field-bred English Springer Spaniels.
The coat comes in three different color combinations. Black-and-white, liver-and-white, or either of these combinations with tan markings (usually on the cheeks and above the eyes). Dogs bred for show are generally more colour than white, whereas sporting dogs tend to have more white in their coats for visibility.

Temperament

The English Springer Spaniel is an affectionate and easy-going family dog, and its alertness and attentiveness make it the ideal hunting companion. An intelligent dog, and eager to please, a English Springer Spaniel is easily incorporated into a family setting. Although good with children, it tends to have a moderate to high energy level. Its long-legged build makes it among the fastest of the spaniels. It has unlimited stamina and needs plenty of activity, to focus its mind and to provide substantial exercise, although this is different for each dog.
Like any breed described as "good with children", a English Springer Spaniel Spaniel must be accustomed to children. Any dog that is not well socialized with children will not behave predictably around them.
In general, the breed is good with other pets, such as cats and ferrets, but, in certain situations, may not tolerate same sex dogs. However, English Springer Spaniels are not suitable for homes with pet birds due to their natural hunting instinct. As with all breeds, dogs must become accustomed to other pets, and it's better to introduce two pets when they're both very young.
English Springer Spaniels are playful animals; many owners find humor in their play. As with many playful dogs or hunting dogs bred as retrievers, these dogs will play with things as simple as empty plastic bottles, socks, or towels. These spaniels easily remember where such things are kept and are good at getting them out. English Springer Spaniels need a lot of regular exercise and mental stimulation for optimum mental health.