Sussex Spaniel
Great Britain, Flushing Dogs
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 38–41 cm
- Weight
- 18–23 kg
- Life expectancy
- 11–13 yrs
- Affectionate
- Calm
- Cheerful
- Steady
- Vocal
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Sussex Spaniel
The Sussex Spaniel is a stocky, low-slung spaniel from the county of Sussex in south-eastern England, developed to push through dense, heavy undergrowth. It has a long body, short legs and a silky, feathered coat of a rich golden liver shade, which is unique among spaniels. It is rare, and a slow, methodical worker that often gives tongue on a scent.
Temperament
Affectionate, calm and cheerful, with a serious expression. It is generally friendly with family, can be a little reserved with strangers, and sometimes vocal when working or excited.
Exercise
Needs daily moderate exercise, such as walks and sniffing games. It is sturdy and enjoys outdoors but is not a high-speed dog.
Grooming
Feathered, flat or slightly wavy coat that needs brushing several times a week, with regular tidy-ups of the ears, feet and feathering.
Care & wellbeing
Long ears should be cleaned regularly. The long back and short legs do not cope well with extra weight, so keep it trim and avoid jumping down from heights.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 20.5 kg adult- Water
- 820 ml–1.2 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,080 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 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 Sussex Spaniel
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A low-set, sturdy spaniel from Sussex in southern England, developed to work thick, heavy undergrowth, where it gives tongue while flushing game. It is calm and steady, a rare breed with a rich golden-liver coat.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Ear infections
- Heart disease
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scores
- Heart screening
Not every Sussex Spaniel is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 11–13 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 Sussex Spaniel right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Sussex Spaniel get?
Adult Sussex Spaniels typically stand about 38–41 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 18–23 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Sussex Spaniels live?
Typically 11–13 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 Sussex Spaniel need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Sussex Spaniel need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Sussex Spaniels easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Sussex Spaniels shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Sussex 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 Sussex Spaniel live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Sussex Spaniels have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections, heart disease. Not every Sussex 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