Page 226 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

226 GUIDE T O BREED S

Almond-shaped, Pendant ears,
Pronounced stop dark hazel eyes set at eye level
express kind nature

Weather-resistant,
thick, straight, liver
and white coat
Well-feathered
tail, carried below
level of back

Heavily
feathered
chest Liver
freckling
on legs
Body moderately
feathered all over Well-rounded,
compact feet

ENGLISH SPRINGER SPANIEL

FULL OF ENTHUSIASM AND AFFECTION, THIS IS A SOCIABLE WORKING OR COMPANION DOG AKC
Height range This classic gundog is so called because excessive barking. A nonworking dog
18–22 in (46–56 cm) it was originally used to “spring” game— needs long, energetic daily walks and
Weight range startle birds into the air. Spaniels used as will enjoy having a stream to splash in,
40–51 lb (18–23 kg)
gundogs were once classified according to mud to roll in, or toys thrown for it to
Life span 12–14 years their size: the larger dogs (called Springers, retrieve. This breed is bright and willing
Origin UK see pp.226–228) were used for flushing game to learn and will respond to calm
and the smaller ones (called Cockers, see authority. It is highly sensitive, so
pp.222–223) for flushing woodcock. Until the giving harsh or loud commands is
beginning of the 20th century, the English likely to be counterproductive.
Other colors Springer Spaniel was not recognized as an The English Springer Spaniel’s love
official breed, although it had developed into of the outdoors means that it needs
a distinct type known as the Norfolk Spaniel. weekly grooming to prevent its thick
Black and The English Springer Spaniel will work coat from becoming matted and dirty
white with hunters in the field all day, undeterred and regular trimming, especially of the
May have tan markings. by rough terrain or adverse weather long feathering on the ears and legs.
conditions, even jumping into freezing water There are two types of English Springer
when necessary. This breed is a popular Spaniel: working and show. Dogs bred
choice with game shooters, but its friendly, specifically to work in the field tend to
biddable disposition makes it an excellent have their tails docked and be slightly
family dog, too. It likes company, including smaller and of lighter build than dogs
children, other dogs, and the household cat. produced for showing. Both types make
If left alone for too long, it may resort to equally good companion dogs.

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