English Springer Spaniel
Also known as Springer Spaniel Inglés
Great Britain, Flushing Dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 46–51 cm
- Weight
- 18–25 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Friendly
- Energetic
- Eager to please
- Cheerful
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is a British gundog bred to spring game out of cover and then retrieve it. It is medium-sized, athletic and sturdy, with a silky, feathered coat, usually liver and white or black and white, and long ears. It works as a gundog, a detection dog and a family pet, and has the boundless energy to match.
Temperament
Friendly, cheerful and eager to please, usually good with children and other pets. It is energetic, can be exuberant, and needs consistent training. It may be prone to separation distress.
Exercise
Needs 1 to 2 hours a day of energetic exercise, including off-lead running, retrieving and swimming. Working lines need even more.
Grooming
The medium-length, feathered coat needs a brush several times a week and a tidy trim every couple of months. Mats form easily behind the ears and under the legs.
Care & wellbeing
Springers love water and mud, so rinse and dry the long ears after every wet outing. This dog needs a job to do, whether retrieving, scent work or agility, to stay settled.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 21.5 kg adult- Water
- 860 ml–1.3 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,120 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a English Springer Spaniel
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A British spaniel developed to flush game from cover and retrieve it for the hunter. It is energetic, friendly and eager to please, and the working and show types can differ notably in energy levels.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Ear infections
- Eye disorders
- Fucosidosis
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
- Eye tests
- DNA test for fucosidosis
Not every English Springer Spaniel is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a English Springer Spaniel right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a English Springer Spaniel get?
Adult English Springer Spaniels typically stand about 46–51 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 18–25 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do English Springer Spaniels live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a English Springer Spaniel need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a English Springer Spaniel need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are English Springer Spaniels easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do English Springer Spaniels shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are English Springer Spaniels good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a English Springer Spaniel live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do English Springer Spaniels have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections, eye disorders. Not every English Springer Spaniel is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Flushing Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1954