Sprocker Spaniel
Also known as Sprocker
United Kingdom, Spaniels and gundogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 38–51 cm
- Weight
- 11–20 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Busy
- Happy
- Driven
- Friendly
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Sprocker Spaniel
The Sprocker is a cross between an English Springer Spaniel and a Cocker Spaniel, most often from working lines. It has long been used by British gamekeepers and rough shooters, and is increasingly kept as an active family pet. Size usually falls between the two parents.
Temperament
Sprockers are happy, busy and extremely keen to work, with a nose that rarely switches off. They are generally friendly with people and other dogs but can become frustrated and destructive without enough to do.
Exercise
Working-bred Sprockers need a lot of exercise, often well over an hour daily, plus activities such as gundog training, scent work or retrieving. A quick walk round the block will not satisfy them.
Grooming
The medium-length, feathered coat needs brushing a couple of times a week, with burrs and mud removed after outings. Trim the hair around the ears and feet to reduce tangles.
Care & wellbeing
These dogs suit active, outdoor homes and owners who enjoy training. Both spaniel breeds carry inherited conditions with DNA tests available. Check ears after every swim or muddy walk, and see a vet for persistent head shaking, collapse after exercise or dark urine.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 15.5 kg adult- Water
- 620 ml–930 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 880 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 Sprocker Spaniel
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Springer and Cocker crosses have been bred informally in Britain for many years, particularly among working gundog keepers who valued the mix's drive and size. The Sprocker name became widely used from the late 20th century. It has no breed standard and most are bred for function rather than looks.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Ear infections
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Phosphofructokinase (PFK) deficiency
- Fucosidosis
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scoring
- Eye examination
- PRA-prcd DNA test
- Fucosidosis DNA test
- PFK deficiency DNA test
- Familial nephropathy DNA test
Not every Sprocker 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 12–15 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 Sprocker 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 Sprocker Spaniel get?
Adult Sprocker Spaniels typically stand about 38–51 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 11–20 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Sprocker Spaniels live?
Typically 12–15 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 Sprocker 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 Sprocker Spaniel need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Sprocker Spaniels easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Sprocker Spaniels shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Sprocker 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 Sprocker Spaniel live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Sprocker Spaniels have?
The breed can be prone to ear infections, hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (pra). Not every Sprocker 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
- United Kingdom
- Type
- Spaniels and gundogs
- Recognition
- A crossbreed, not recognised by kennel clubs