Page 226 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

CATALOG OF BREEDS | GUNDOGS

English Springer Spaniel

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN Black and white
18–22in 40–51lb 12–14 years
(46–56cm) (18–23kg) May have tan markings.

Full of enthusiasm and affection, this sociable companion is
an excellent working dog

This classic gundog is so-called because it is likely to be counterproductive. The English
was originally used to spring game—startle Springer Spaniel’s love of the outdoors means
birds into the air. Spaniels used as gundogs that it needs weekly grooming to prevent its
were once classified according to their size: thick coat from becoming matted and dirty,
the larger dogs (called Springers, see and regular trimming, especially of the long
pp.224–26) were used for flushing game feathering on the ears and legs.
birds, and the smaller ones (called Cockers, There are two types of English Springer
see p.222) for hunting woodcock. Until the Spaniel: working and show. Dogs bred
Well feathered tail,
beginning of the 20th century the English specifically to work in the field tend to have carried below
Springer Spaniel was not recognized as an their tails docked and be slightly smaller level of back
official breed, although it had developed into and of lighter build than dogs produced
a distinct type known as the Norfolk Spaniel. for showing. Both types make equally
The English Springer Spaniel will work good companions.
with hunters in the field all day, undeterred
by rough terrain or adverse weather
conditions, even jumping into freezing water
when necessary. This breed is a popular
choice with game shooters but its friendly,
obedient disposition makes it an excellent
family dog, too. It likes company, including
children, other dogs, and the household cat.
If left alone for too long, it may resort to
excessive barking. A nonworking dog needs
long, energetic daily walks and will enjoy
having a stream to splash in, mud to roll in,
or toys thrown for it to retrieve. This breed
is bright and willing to learn, and will
respond to calm authority. It is highly
sensitive, so giving harsh or loud commands PUPPY

SNIFFER DOGS

Although traditionally bred for hunting, the English
Springer Spaniel is now also familiar as a sniffer
dog (right), used to detect drugs, explosives,
money, and even people. The breed’s highly acute Liver freckling on legs
sense of smell enables it to detect the tiniest traces
of explosives, or the smell of drugs in a person’s
sweat. The English Springer Spaniel has the speed
and energy to search large areas quickly; in
addition, it is compact and agile enough to
work in small spaces such as vehicle interiors.

224