English Springer Spaniel
Male: 23-25 kg, Female: 18-23 kg
Approximately 51 cm at the shoulder
12-14 years
England
About the English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is the founder of all the English hunting spaniels and remains one of the most versatile gundogs in the world. Characterised by a compact, strong, and symmetrical build, they are built for endurance and agility in the field. They are famously 'merry' dogs, possessing a soulful expression and a tail that rarely stops moving, reflecting their deeply social and affectionate nature. In the home, they are devoted companions that thrive on human interaction, often following their owners from room to room. Their high intelligence and desire to work make them exceptional candidates for dog sports like agility, obedience, and tracking. While they are energetic outdoors, they are generally calm and affectionate indoors, provided their substantial physical and mental needs have been met.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
The English Springer Spaniel in the show ring is the epitome of functional symmetry. A premier specimen displays a distinctive 'springy' gait, with a long, free-reaching stride and powerful drive from the rear, mirroring their purpose in the field. They possess a moderately long neck that flows into well-laid-back shoulders and a level topline. Their crowning glory is the head—refined, with a broad muzzle and a deep 'stop,' finished with long, lobular ears and an expression of soft, melting intelligence.
In Australia
Reliable Australian historical records for this breed’s introduction were not located.
Bred For
Flushing and retrieving game (specifically springing at game to flush it into the air for the net or falcon, and later for the gun).
Temperament
Friendly, eager to please, quick to learn, and willing to obey; known for a 'merry' disposition and a constantly wagging tail.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
, ( Cord-1), Fucosidosis, Phosphofructokinase (PFK) deficiency, and chronic Otitis Externa (ear infections).
Grooming Needs
Moderate to High; requires brushing several times a week to prevent matting, along with regular professional trimming of the 'feathers' and ear canal hygiene.
Living Suitability
Suited to houses with medium to large yards; not recommended for small apartments unless the owner is extremely active and provides multiple daily outings.
Good with Kids
Excellent; known to be very patient and playful with children, though supervision is recommended with very young children due to their boisterous energy.
Good with Other Pets
Generally excellent with other dogs and can live harmoniously with cats if raised with them; however, they may chase small birds or rodents due to their hunting heritage.
Trainability
Very High; they are exceptionally intelligent and motivated by both food and praise, making them one of the easier breeds to train for complex tasks.
Coat & Colours
Close, straight, and weather-resisting; moderate feathering on ears, chest, legs, and belly.. Bicolour: Liver and white, black and white, or either of these with tan markings (Tricolour).
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
English Springer Spaniels are predisposed to chronic ear infections due to their heavy, pendulous ears trapping moisture; owners must commit to weekly ear cleaning. Their high energy and 'velcro' personality mean they can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods without adequate stimulation. While generally very healthy, they are more likely to experience hip dysplasia or eye conditions like PRA, so sourcing from health-screened parents is vital. They are also 'mud magnets' who love water and thickets—their coat requires diligent grooming to remove burrs and prevent painful matting. Some individuals may develop dietary sensitivities to high-carbohydrate commercial foods, which can manifest as itchy skin or yeast overgrowth in the ears; many thrive on a low-allergen Majestik fresh diet. Finally, their 'merry' tail is a whip-like force in small spaces, often clearing coffee tables with ease—a small price for such a happy companion.
Feeding Guide for Your English Springer Spaniel
Healthy Weight
18-25 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
450-750 grams
For an adult English Springer Spaniel, feeding should be based on 2-3% of their ideal body weight. For a 22kg dog, this equates to approximately 440g to 660g of fresh food per day, split into two meals. Active field-line Springers may require the higher end of this range or slightly more during peak hunting or trial seasons.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
High-quality, protein-rich diet; highly suited to fresh or raw feeding to manage weight and maintain skin and coat health.
A balanced raw diet for an ESS should focus on lean proteins like Kangaroo and Beef to maintain a healthy weight. Majestik's Kangaroo and Fish blends are ideal for providing Omega-3 fatty acids to support coat shine and skin health. Because they are prone to ear infections, a grain-free raw diet can help reduce yeast-related inflammation.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
English Springer Spaniel Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your English Springer Spaniel? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
6-8 puppies
English Springer Spaniel Owner Feedback
Real experiences and tips from English Springer Spaniel owners
Other Medium Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.