Last Updated: 18/03/2026
Springer Spaniel Breed Guide
Thinking of a Springer Spaniel? Our breed guide covers facts, health, and care.
Author: Dr Carla Paszkowski BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 4 minutes - short read
The Springer Spaniel is the quintessential gundog, renowned for its boundless energy, cheerful disposition, and distinctive long, feathered ears. Bred to 'spring' or flush game into the air, they are athletic, agile, and thrive on having a job to do. They are intensely social dogs that bond deeply with their families and generally get along well with other pets and children. Because of their thick, water-resistant double coats, they require regular grooming to prevent matting, especially around their ears and legs. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them highly trainable, but their high energy levels mean they are best suited to active households that can provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Health priorities for the breed include maintaining a healthy weight and caring for their ears and joints.
All about Springer Spaniels
Place of origin
UK
Weight range
18-25kg
Breed size
Medium
Height range
46-51cm
Breed group
Gundogs
Life expectancy
12-14 years
Coat colours
Black & White, Liver & White, Tri-colour
Grooming needs
High
Coat type
Flat/Wavy Double
Health issues
Shedding factor
Moderate
Exercise needs
High
Play style
High Energy
Housing needs
Yard Required
Trainability
High
Social needs
High
Family suitability
Excellent
Tendency to bark
Moderate
Nutrition
Correct nutrition is the foundation of a healthy life for a Springer Spaniel, providing the fuel needed for their high-energy lifestyle while supporting their specific physiological needs.
Best food for adult Springer Spaniels
When selecting a diet for an adult Springer Spaniel, owners should prioritise high-quality proteins to support lean muscle mass and complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. Given their susceptibility to joint issues and skin sensitivities, formulas enriched with omega fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin are ideal choices for this athletic breed.
What to look for adult food
Look for diets containing glucosamine and chondroitin to support long-term joint health and mobility.
Select formulas with high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to maintain a healthy skin barrier and a glossy coat.
Choose nutrient-dense recipes with controlled calorie counts to prevent obesity, which can put extra strain on their joints.
Best food for Springer Spaniel puppies
Springer Spaniel puppies grow at a moderate rate and require a balanced diet that supports controlled skeletal development to reduce the risk of future joint problems. It is important to find a puppy-specific formula that contains DHA for brain and vision development, ensuring they have the best start during their most critical growth phases.
What to look for puppy food
Ensure the food contains optimal levels of calcium and phosphorus to support steady and healthy bone growth.
Look for the inclusion of DHA, an essential omega-3 fatty acid that aids in cognitive and retinal development.
Choose a highly digestible recipe with prebiotics to support a developing immune system and healthy digestion.
Flea & worming
Consistent flea and worming treatment is vital for Springer Spaniels, especially those who spend time in the bush or tall grass where parasites are common.
Best flea and worming for Springer Spaniels
The best parasite prevention for this breed should offer comprehensive protection against fleas, ticks, heartworm, and all intestinal worms in an easy-to-administer format. For active dogs that enjoy swimming or frequent grooming, a monthly oral chew is often the most reliable way to ensure the medication isn't washed off the skin.
What to look for
Opt for all-in-one monthly chewables that protect against fleas, ticks, heartworm, and intestinal worms simultaneously.
Ensure the product is effective against ticks, especially if the dog frequently visits rural or wooded areas.
Choose a reputable brand that is well-tolerated and backed by veterinary clinical trials for safety and efficacy.
Health
Using the right health products is important for Springer Spaniels to manage their specific breed-related predispositions and maintain overall vitality.
Best health products Springer Spaniels
Since Springer Spaniels are highly prone to ear issues, a high-quality pH-balanced ear cleaner is a non-negotiable part of their health kit. Additionally, joint supplements containing green-lipped mussel or concentrated omega oils can provide proactive support for their active joints as they age.
What to look for health
Select an ear cleaning solution specifically formulated to break down wax and debris without causing irritation.
Look for joint supplements that contain therapeutic levels of omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation.
Choose dental care products like water additives or brushes to prevent the build-up of tartar and periodontal disease.
Training and activity
Choosing the right toys and walking products is essential for a Springer Spaniel to satisfy their high intelligence and drive for physical activity.
Best toys for Springer Spaniels
Toys for Springer Spaniels should cater to their natural gundog instincts, such as retrieving, searching, and problem-solving. Durable fetch toys, water-safe floaties, and complex puzzle feeders are excellent choices to keep their busy minds and bodies occupied throughout the day.
What to look for toys
Prioritise brightly coloured fetch toys that are easy for the dog to locate in various outdoor environments.
Select interactive puzzle toys that challenge their problem-solving skills and provide mental enrichment.
Look for water-resistant or floating toys to accommodate the breed's natural affinity for swimming and water play.
Best walking accessories for Springer Spaniels
Given their strength and enthusiasm for scent-following, a front-attaching harness is often the best choice to provide better control and prevent pulling. For those with a reliable recall, a long-line lead can offer them the freedom to sniff and explore while still being safely managed in open spaces.
What to look for walking accessories
Choose a padded, multi-point adjustable harness to ensure a comfortable and secure fit for their deep chests.
Look for leads with a comfortable grip and durable clips that can withstand the sudden movements of an energetic dog.
Consider a long training lead to allow for safe exploration and to practice recall in controlled environments.
Grooming
Choosing the right grooming products is important for Springer Spaniels to maintain their coat health and prevent painful mats from forming in their fine feathering.
Best grooming products for Springer Spaniels
A Springer's grooming routine should include a high-quality slicker brush for the main body and a fine-toothed comb specifically for the long hair on their ears and legs. Utilising a detangling spray can make the process much more comfortable for the dog, ensuring their water-resistant coat stays clean and functional.
What to look for grooming
Invest in a professional-grade slicker brush to effectively remove loose undercoat and prevent matting.
Use a detangling spray or leave-in conditioner to help smooth the long feathering and make brushing easier.
Select a gentle, soap-free shampoo that cleanses effectively without stripping the natural oils from their skin.
Sleep and home
Choosing the right sleep and home products is important for Springer Spaniels to ensure they have a dedicated space to rest and recover from their busy days.
Best beds for Springer Spaniels
The best beds for Springer Spaniels should be spacious enough for them to stretch out and provide adequate support for their athletic frames. Orthopaedic memory foam is a fantastic option to support their joints, while a bed with raised edges can provide a sense of security for dogs that like to curl up.
What to look for beds
Choose a bed with a removable, machine-washable cover to easily manage the dirt and hair they bring inside.
Look for orthopaedic foam bases that provide superior support for their hips and elbows after exercise.
Consider the size of the bed to ensure it comfortably accommodates a medium-sized dog in multiple sleeping positions.
Springer Spaniel FAQ
