The interesting Life Of The English Springer Spaniel Dog breed

The English Springer Spaniel is a good choice for an apartment if you are willing to jog with her or exercise her several times a day. She will do better with access to a properly fenced in area that affords her room to run. She is very good with most other dogs and pets but possibly not so good with birds. She loves older children. As a reminder, never leave children unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

Approximate Adult Size

The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male English Springer Spaniel is 19 to 21 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 45 to 55 pounds. The female ranges from 18 to 20 inches to the withers and 40 to 50 pounds.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the English Springer Spaniel is no exception. Be on the look out for canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), Progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness), hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid gland which can result in weight gain), and Rage Syndrome (an odd situation where the dog goes crazy for a time and may even bite), thought to be associated with epilepsy. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

Grooming

The English Springer Spaniel has a moderately long coat which is composed of an inner and outer coat. The outer coat is wavy or flat while the inner coat is short and soft. She should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

Life Span

The English Springer Spaniel can live between 10 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1910.