English Springer Spaniel breed guide

Bred to work closely with humans, English Springer Spaniels are highly trainable people-pleasers that crave company and are miserable when neglected. AKC calls them lively and highly intelligent, so continued training and gentle guidance are vital, with the owner in control at all times.

English Springer Spaniels live 12 to 14 years. AKC says breeders screen for conditions the breed is prone to, among them elbow and hip dysplasia and eye conditions.

Weekly brushing keeps the coat healthy, shining and mat-free. A slicker brush or metal comb works out tangles. The owner can trim the English Springer Spaniel or visit a professional groomer for clipping and neatening, particularly around the feet.

Happiest living indoors with the family, English Springer Spaniels enjoy outdoor activities and long walks or hikes. With proper exercise the breed can suit a small house or apartment, though a large fenced yard helps.

Among Britain's spaniels that worked on land, dogs described as cockers or springers were often born in the same litter. It took many generations of careful breeding to sort out the English Springer, English Cocker and Field Spaniel as distinct breeds.

The springer-type spaniel first emerged centuries ago to work on upland game birds. Before the wheel-lock firearm of the 17th century, springing spaniels worked in tandem with hunters who took prey with nets, falcons or bows.