German Spaniel
Also known as Deutscher Wachtelhund · Chien d'Oysel Allemand · Perdiguero Alemán
Germany, Flushing Dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 45–54 cm
- Weight
- 18–26 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Hardworking
- Keen
- Loyal
- Energetic
- Focused
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the German Spaniel
The German Spaniel, or Deutscher Wachtelhund, is a medium-sized flushing and retrieving dog from Germany, used in forest and thick cover for flushing and following game by scent. It has a solid, muscular body with a dense, wavy coat, usually in brown shades, sometimes roan or with white markings, and long feathered ears. It is bred primarily for hunting and most are kept as working dogs.
Temperament
Spirited, keen and loyal to its handler. Very hard-working, with a strong hunting drive and good nose. Can be reserved with strangers. Needs structure, training and plenty of purposeful activity.
Exercise
Needs lots of daily exercise and real work. Long outdoor sessions with scent and retrieving tasks suit it better than basic lead walks.
Grooming
The dense, wavy coat tangles easily around the ears, legs and feathering, so brush it a few times a week. Look through it for burrs and seeds after country walks.
Care & wellbeing
Long ears need regular cleaning and drying. Check the coat for ticks and burrs after cover work.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 22 kg adult- Water
- 880 ml–1.3 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,140 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 German Spaniel
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A German spaniel developed to flush and retrieve game for hunters, bred for a keen nose and a steady, willing temperament. It is a rare, mostly working-line breed with a long coat that needs regular grooming and plenty of activity.
Health
There's limited reliable published information on health issues in the German Spaniel. Breed clubs and your vet are the best sources.
Not every German 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
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a German 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 German Spaniel get?
Adult German Spaniels typically stand about 45–54 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 18–26 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do German 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 German 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 German Spaniel need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are German Spaniels easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do German Spaniels shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are German 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 German Spaniel live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Germany
- Type
- Flushing Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1954