Springer Spaniel Breed
Springer Spaniel history is a bit murky, but it’s generally agreed that their ancestors were the Norfolk spaniels, English spaniels bred in the 1800s to flush game for hunters. The name English Springer was authorized in 1903, and the first one was brought to America in 1907 and recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1910. Since then, Springers have had a proud history as a bird dog; they flush and retrieve game.
The AKC breed standard for English Springer Spaniels says that Springers are cheerful, affectionate, and eager to please. They are either white and black, black and white, white and liver, liver and white, or tri-color (rare). They have long, soft, silky coats that shed (I long ago decided that an outfit without dog hair is an incomplete outfit and food without dog hair lacks spice). They’re medium-sized dogs, generally weighing in between 40 and 50 pounds full grown.
Not one of the most popular breeds, Springers are still one of the best. (They may get more popular in coming years now that Oprah has two Springers.)
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Springer spaniels have enormous energy. Some would call them hyper. My experience is that they get hyper when they’re not exercised enough. Springers must be allowed to run. They are not good apartment dogs. They are active, exuberant dogs who are ready for adventure and exploration.
Springer spaniels want, more than anything, to be with their people. They don’t do well locked in kennels or crates for long periods of time. If you have a Springer, you have a furry shadow that goes with you wherever you allow it to go.
Springers are quick to learn and generally willing to learn, although, they are also smart enough to begin wondering WHY you want them to do certain things. They will push you and make you convince them that you’re boss. But pushing too hard isn’t a good idea. Springers are sensitive dogs, easily shamed. Training a Springer requires a firm but happy tone and attitude.
Both of the Springers I’ve lived with have been rather vocal. Muggins was the queen of extraordinary sounds–she vocalized a wide range of emotion and commentary. Ducky is a bit more limited–but she has a range of squeaks and whines and barks and arrwoos that get her points across.
Springers are cuddle-dogs. They love to sleep by you or on you. They enjoy being held and rubbed and kissed and cooed at.
I didn’t get my first Springer until I was 32 years old, but once I had one, I knew Springers would always be my dog of choice. Their combination of verve and sweetness is irresistible.
Springer Spaniels embody joy … in too many ways to list. They are teachers of truth–the truth that life was meant to be fun.
We have a 1 1/2 year old Springer, Sadie, and she is exactly as you describe. We had 2 Germain Shepperds and decided to get a Springer because we have 10 grandkids and were told they are great with kids.
My aunt and uncle also purchase Sadie’s sister and when they get together will play for hours.
I can not put in words the joy she has brought to our life, she is great company and loves to go for walks which is good for both of us.
I would recommend a Springer to anyone who is willing to give them lots of love and exercise. They will give you 10 times the love in return.
Thanks so much for sharing your experience with Sadie, Rob! I’m glad you’re having such a great time with her. You’re absolutely right that they give you ten times the love in return for what you give them AND yes, they MUST have lots of exercise. Most people I’ve talked to about Springers are like me–once you have a Springer, you’re hooked on the breed.