The English Springer Spaniel is considered the progenitor of all other Spaniel breeds. In our country the passionate hunting dog is rather rare. However, with sufficient activity it is quite suitable as a good family dog.
The origin of the English Springer Spaniel
The breed is so old that the exact beginnings cannot be traced back. English Springer Spaniels appear early in the history of British hunting dogs. Paintings of the 17th century show noble gentlemen with dogs of this type. When falconry was still popular, the Springer Spaniel was the preferred search dog. In this context "Spring" means to drive the tracked down birds into the air.
First breed standards were defined in the 19th century. After that the name "English Springer Spaniel" became generally accepted in order to distinguish it more clearly from other Spaniels which had been created in the meantime. The English Springer Spaniel is considered the largest of them and the ancestor of all other similar dogs. In 1885, the first "Spaniel Club" was founded in England. The Springer Spaniel breed still provides for an agile and obedient working dog that independently goes hunting.
The breed characteristics of the English Springer Spaniel
Until today the Springer Spaniel is considered the typical hunting dog in terms of their whole appearance and character. Always attentive to their surroundings. The coat is beautiful with black and occasionally reddish-brown markings. The floppy ears with the wavy coat are another trademark of this dog.
In the hunting dog scene the English Springer Spaniel has a high rank and has made a reputable name until today. You will rarely meet them as a family and leisure dog. It is very active and needs its (hunting) occupation. This dog is not suitable for keeping in a city apartment and walking around concrete blocks.
In the FCI the English Springer Spaniel is listed under Standard No. 125, Group 8 and Section 2: Flushing Dogs.
- Hunting and Flushing Dog
- is considered the progenitor of all Spaniel types
- not suitable for being kept in an apartment or in the city