Bred to flush and retrieve game all day, the Springer needs a serious daily outlet — 60-90 minutes of walking, retrieving and sniffing, plus training to channel that clever brain. The feathered coat needs brushing a few times a week and the long ears need regular checks. Sociable to its core, it does badly left alone and thrives when included in everything.
English Springer Spaniel
- Trainer-reviewed by Marcus Bell, CPDT-KA
- Last updated June 2, 2026
Breed character
A merry, affectionate gundog that lives to work alongside its people — bright, biddable and bursting with happy energy.
Temperament
- Merry
- Eager to please
- Affectionate
- Energetic
- Sociable
Likes
- Retrieving and water play
- Having a job and learning
- Being with their family constantly
- Sniffy, exploratory walks
Dislikes
- Being left alone
- Boredom and under-exercise
- Skipped grooming and ear care
- A purely sedentary home
Habits & quirks
- The whole-body 'springer wiggle' when happy
- Carrying toys and gifts to greet you
- Following their person room to room
- Nose-down questing on every walk
Great for
- Active families and gundog enthusiasts
- Owners who want a trainable, affectionate dog
- Homes that include the dog in daily life
- Walkers, runners and dog-sport fans
Think twice if…
- Sedentary or frequently-empty homes
- Owners wanting a low-grooming breed
- Apartments without serious exercise
- Anyone unable to give 1-2 hours a day
English Springer Spaniel: quick answers
How big does the English Springer Spaniel get?
An adult English Springer Spaniel typically weighs 18–25 kg and stands around 48–56 cm at the shoulder — a medium breed.
How long does the English Springer Spaniel live?
12–14 years is typical for the English Springer Spaniel. Weight, genetics and routine veterinary care all move the needle — regular check-ups matter at every age.
Is the English Springer Spaniel good with kids?
The English Springer Spaniel rates 5/5 on our family-friendliness scale — one of the stronger choices for homes with children. Early socialisation and supervision still matter far more than breed for any dog around kids.
Does the English Springer Spaniel shed a lot?
Moderately — the English Springer Spaniel rates 3/5 for shedding. Routine brushing keeps it manageable.
Is the English Springer Spaniel easy to train?
Yes — the English Springer Spaniel rates 4/5 for trainability. It’s a quick study that responds well to short, consistent, reward-based sessions.
Can the English Springer Spaniel live in an apartment?
It’s not the ideal apartment dog — the English Springer Spaniel does best with more space. Committed owners can make it work, but plan on serious daily exercise.
Is this the right breed for you?
Take the 3-minute Breed Match — a few honest questions about your home, time and energy, and a shortlist of dogs that genuinely fit your life.
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Care, gear & guides
Guides for this breed are coming soon.
