English Springer Spaniel
Also called: Springer, English Springer
A friendly, tireless flushing spaniel that works close, springs birds into the air, and retrieves, a favorite for pheasants and grouse.
- Type
- Flushing Spaniels
- Hunts
- Upland birds, Waterfowl
- Weight
- 40 to 55 pounds
- Height
- 19 to 20 inches at the shoulder
- Lifespan
- 12 to 14 years
- Coat
- Medium-length feathered coat, usually liver and white or black and white
- Energy
- High energy
- Cold and water
- Good. The medium coat tolerates cold, and the breed retrieves from water.
What it is best at
- Flushing pheasants, grouse, and woodcock within gun range.
- Retrieving birds from cover and water.
- A family dog that also hunts.
Temperament
- Friendly, cheerful, and eager to please.
- Energetic and busy.
- Can be anxious or clingy if under-exercised.
Things to know before you get one
- Needs daily exercise and mental work.
- Ear infections are common, and the coat needs regular grooming.
- Show and field lines differ a lot in drive and build.
Training and exercise
Springers are eager and trainable. Teach them to quarter within gun range, hold a sit at the flush, and retrieve softly to hand. Keep training positive and consistent, and give them lots of birds.
Common health concerns
- Hip dysplasia, which breeders screen for.
- Ear infections, which are common because of the long ears.
- Eye problems and, in some lines, rage syndrome or other genetic conditions.
Ask breeders for health testing records, and talk to a veterinarian about screening, vaccines, and tick and heartworm prevention.
Often compared with
- English Cocker Spaniel: smaller, with similar flushing instincts.
- Brittany: a pointing dog, not a flusher, but of similar size.
Field notes
Springers get their name from springing, or flushing, birds from cover. They stay close, which makes them a good fit for hunters who want to keep their dog within gun range.
Related guides
This is a general breed profile, not veterinary or training advice. Dogs vary individually, so meet the parents and talk to experienced owners before you choose. Rules about hunting with dogs, releasing dogs on public land, and dog training seasons differ by state; our state resources directory links to each state's official regulations.