Springer Spaniel breed guide

Common characteristics of the springer spaniel breed

Please remember that the following characteristics are considered ‘average’ for springer spaniels, and since each dog is a unique individual, your springer spaniel’s characteristics may differ.

Average height for a springer spaniel

The majority of springer spaniels reach a height of about 46-56cm, at the shoulder.

Average weight for a springer spaniel

Most springer spaniels weigh approximately 18-25kg.

Average lifespan for a springer spaniel

Springer spaniels usually live for around 12-14 years.

Typical springer spaniel appearance

A member of the ‘gundog’ group, springer spaniels are medium-sized and have a compact yet athletic frame. Their legs are relatively long in comparison to their body, with muscular hindquarters and gracefully sloping shoulders that help them to ‘spring’ with ease.

Alongside the springer spaniel’s chiselled muzzle and almond eyes full of expression, they have a prominent nose with well-developed nostrils – ‘pawfect’ for scent work!

Perhaps the most recognisable feature of the springer spaniel is their long, fluffy ears, which require regular grooming to keep clean and free of tangles.

As for their tail, a springer spaniel should have a low-set tail, with a slight upward curve, that’ll wag vigorously when they’re excited!

Springer spaniels have a medium-length, weather-resistant coat with flat or wavy hair. While their coat can contain many different types of markings, coat colours commonly seen in springer spaniels include:

• Black and white.
• Black, white, and tan (pale brown).
• Liver (reddish-brown) and white.
• Liver, white, and tan.

Typical springer spaniel temperament

Devotion to their pet parents is a signature trait of the springer spaniel breed. Whether you’re exploring new surroundings or trying out new activities, your springer spaniel would love being by your side throughout every adventure!

However, the strong bond your springer spaniel shares with you can lead to them suffering from separation anxiety if they’re left alone.

Due to being an exceptionally active breed, your springer spaniel needs at least two hours of exercise daily (though don’t be surprised if they’re still full of energy after that!). It’s thanks to their hardworking nature that springer spaniels are amazing at a wide array of canine sports, including agility, scent work, and flyball.

When they’re not out enjoying adventures or canine sports, your springer spaniel will require plenty of mental stimulation to keep their mind occupied – and prevent them from developing undesirable behaviours.

Additionally, springer spaniels are famous for their incredible intelligence, which means training them is both fun and rewarding!

But, owing to their powerful sense of smell, springer spaniels may get distracted if not properly motivated by the right reward – so, it’s essential to keep working on their recall.

Springer spaniel health conditions

It’s not unusual for pedigree breeds to be prone to certain health concerns, and, unfortunately, springer spaniels are no exception. Here are a few health conditions commonly seen in the springer spaniel:

• Ear infections.
• Elbow dysplasia.
• Hip dysplasia.

Remember: Keep an eye out for any health issues your springer spaniel may develop, and get your canine companion checked by a vet if you have any concerns. If you are considering pet insurance, be sure to read our guide about insuring your springer spaniel.

Fun facts about springer spaniels

Fact 1 – Springer spaniels are named after the way they ‘spring’ towards game while working in the field.

Fact 2 – Despite their origin as a ‘land spaniel’, the springer spaniel loves swimming and playing in water!

Fact 3 – The springer spaniel was once known as the ‘Norfolk spaniel’ because some believed the Duke of Norfolk developed the breed.

Fact 4 – Although there are similarities between them, the English springer spaniel and Welsh springer aren’t the same breed. It’s believed Welsh springer spaniels don’t have the same origins as English springer spaniels, since the ancestors of Welsh springer spaniels are said to have first appeared in medieval literature.

Fact 5 – There are two distinct ‘types’ of springer spaniel – the ‘working’ springer spaniel is smaller and slimmer than the ‘show type’ springer spaniel, who is larger with slightly longer ears.