English Springer Spaniel

Sporting

Daily Step Goal

12,500steps

Energy Level

Very High

Weight

15–17 kg

Height Range

48–51 cm

Life Span

12–14 years

Very High

A very high-energy breed that needs 90+ minutes of intense daily activity.

About the English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized breed of dog that was originally bred in England for flushing and retrieving game. They are intelligent, energetic, and eager to please, and make excellent hunting dogs.

Breed Characteristics

Breed GroupSporting
Senior Age Threshold10+ years

Temperament

AffectionateCheerfulAlertIntelligentAttentiveActive

Facts about the English Springer Spaniel

Exercise

Sporting breeds need 60–90 min of vigorous activity daily. A long walk plus fetch satisfies both mind and body.

AKC

Behavior

Bred to work alongside humans — positive reinforcement training clicks far better than corrections.

VCA

Health

Many sporting breeds are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia — ask your vet about screening after age 2.

AKC

Training

Most retrievers have a natural love of water — a lake or pond walk adds stimulation no park can match.

The Kennel Club UK

Did You Know

Many sporting breeds have partially-webbed feet — an evolutionary trait for water retrieval.

AKC

Exercise

Springers need 90+ min daily — they're working gundogs, built for all-day field work. No such thing as "enough."

AKC

Health

Ear infections (long drop ears), hip dysplasia, PRA, epilepsy. Weekly ear cleaning + annual eye exams.

The Kennel Club UK

Behavior

Cheerful, bonded to family, sensitive. Rage syndrome (rare but real in show lines) — reputable breeders only.

VCA

Did You Know

Named "Springer" because they "spring" birds from cover for hunters — a working term, not decorative.

AKC history

Exercise by Age

Puppy (under 1 year)

Limit exercise to 5 minutes per month of age, twice daily. Avoid high-impact activities to protect growing joints.

Adult (1-10 years)

Full daily goal applies. Mix walks with play, training and mental stimulation.

Senior (10+ years)

Reduce intensity by 20-30%. Shorter, more frequent walks. Watch for signs of fatigue or joint stiffness.

Similar Breeds

Frequently asked questions

How much exercise does a English Springer Spaniel need?

A English Springer Spaniel needs about 12,500 steps a day. A very high-energy breed that needs 90+ minutes of intense daily activity.

How big does a English Springer Spaniel get?

Adult English Springer Spaniels typically weigh 15–17 kg and stand 48–51 cm at the shoulder.

How long do English Springer Spaniels live?

A English Springer Spaniel usually lives 12–14 years.

What is a English Springer Spaniel's temperament?

English Springer Spaniels are typically Affectionate, Cheerful, Alert, Intelligent, Attentive, Active.

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