Friendly and Sociable

English Springer Spaniels are known for their affectionate and friendly nature, making them excellent family pets. 

Highly Trainable

Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them quick learners, excelling in obedience, agility, and other canine sports. 

Great for Active Families

Their high energy levels and love for outdoor activities make them great companions for active families. 

Versatile Working Dogs

Springer Spaniels are skilled hunting dogs, but they are also excellent therapy and service animals. 

High Exercise Needs

Due to their energy levels, Springer Spaniels require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy, which may not be suitable for less active households. 

Prone to Separation Anxiety

Springer Spaniels can become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods. 

Grooming Requirements

Their long, feathery coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles, especially around the ears and legs. 

Can Be Overly Enthusiastic

Their exuberant nature can sometimes be overwhelming, especially around small children or in less structured environments. 

Exercise Needs

English Springer Spaniels are high-energy dogs that require plenty of exercise. They enjoy activities like running, swimming, hiking, and playing fetch. Without enough physical and mental stimulation, they can become bored and potentially destructive. 

Walks

A minimum of one to two long walks per day, along with playtime and mental stimulation, is recommended to meet their energy needs. Springer Spaniels also enjoy participating in dog sports like agility or flyball. 

Training

English Springer Spaniels are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them highly trainable. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods, and early obedience training is essential to manage their enthusiasm and prevent unwanted behaviours. Due to their energy levels, they thrive in structured environments where they can learn and perform tasks. 

Purchase Price

$2,000 - $4,000 AUD depending on breeder and lineage. 

Initial Setup

Around $500 - $700 AUD. (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food

Approximately $800 - $1,200 AUD per year, given their size and energy levels. 

Grooming

Due to their long coat, regular grooming is necessary, which may include professional grooming every few months. Grooming costs can range from $500 - $1,000 AUD per year. 

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $500 - $1,000 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups and preventive care could cost $400 - $800 AUD per year, with additional expenses for potential ear infections or joint issues. 

Total Lifetime Cost

Over a 12-14 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $25,000 - $40,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors. 

Size and Weight

English Springer Spaniels typically stand 45-51 cm (18-20 inches) tall and weigh between 18-25 kg (40-55 lbs), with males generally being larger than females. 

Coat

Springer Spaniels have a medium-length, double coat that is water-resistant. Their coat requires regular grooming to keep it free of mats and to maintain its condition, especially for dogs used in outdoor or working environments. 

Colour Options

Common colour patterns include liver and white, black and white, or tri-coloured (black, white, and tan). Some may have ticking or roan patterns in their coats. 

Temperament

Springer Spaniels are friendly, sociable, and energetic. They are known for their affectionate nature and love being around people, which makes them excellent companions. They are also eager to please and enjoy learning new tasks, making them highly trainable. 

Good with Children

Springer Spaniels are great with children due to their friendly and patient nature. They are generally gentle and playful, making them a good match for families with kids. 

Socialisation

Early socialisation is important for Springer Spaniels to ensure they are comfortable around other people, pets, and environments. They are naturally social dogs but benefit from exposure to different situations. 

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Springer Spaniels prefer to live indoors with their families but need regular outdoor time for exercise and play. They are best suited to homes with access to a yard where they can run and explore. They enjoy outdoor activities but thrive when they can be part of the household. 

Apartment Living

While their energy levels can make apartment living challenging, Springer Spaniels can adapt to apartments if they receive enough exercise and mental stimulation. They need ample outdoor time to prevent boredom and restlessness. 

Time Alone

English Springer Spaniels do not do well when left alone for long periods. They are social dogs that enjoy being with their families, and they may develop separation anxiety or destructive behaviours if left isolated for extended periods. 

Common Health Issues

English Springer Spaniels are generally healthy, but they can be prone to certain conditions, including hip dysplasia, ear infections, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and elbow dysplasia. Regular ear cleaning is important to prevent infections due to their long, floppy ears. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and attention to their ears and joints are essential for maintaining their health. 

Guarding Ability

While not aggressive, Springer Spaniels may bark to alert their owners of strangers or unusual activity. However, they are generally friendly and not known for being protective guard dogs. 

Affectionate Nature

Springer Spaniels are affectionate dogs that thrive on human interaction. They enjoy cuddling and spending time with their families, often seeking out attention and affection. 

Suitability for Dog Parks

Springer Spaniels are generally social with other dogs and enjoy playing in dog parks. They do well in off-leash environments, but their strong hunting instincts may lead them to chase birds or other small animals, so supervision is recommended. 

Climate Adaptability

Springer Spaniels can adapt to various climates but may struggle in extreme heat due to their thick coat. It’s important to provide plenty of water, shade, and access to cool areas during hot weather. They are more comfortable in moderate climates but can adjust to warmer conditions with proper care. 

Ethical Breeding Considerations

Due to their predisposition to certain health issues like hip dysplasia and PRA, it is important to purchase from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings. Ethical breeding practices help reduce the risk of hereditary health problems and ensure the well-being of the puppies.