The English Springer Spaniel is a cheerful, eager-to-please gundog with boundless enthusiasm for people, water and anything that smells interesting. Owners most often struggle with high energy, jumping, pulling on walks, separation stress and keeping that feathered coat and those long ears clean.
English Springer Spaniel at a glance
- Size: medium, sturdy and athletic.
- Energy level: high; bred to work in the field all day.
- Shedding level: moderate, with more shedding in seasonal changes.
- Barking tendency: moderate; can bark from boredom or excitement.
- Good for first-time owners: with work; friendly and trainable but needs plenty of time and activity.
- Time alone tolerance: low to moderate; Springers are very people-focused.
Common English Springer Spaniel problems and solutions
Most Springer problems come from a busy, happy dog with more energy than outlets. Give that enthusiasm a direction and many issues fade away.
How much exercise does a Springer Spaniel need?
Most adult Springers need well over an hour of activity a day, ideally including off-leash running in safe areas, sniffing and retrieving games. A tired Springer is usually a calm, happy Springer. Split exercise into morning and evening sessions, and add a short training game in between.
Why is my Springer Spaniel so hyper?
Springers are working dogs, so unmet needs often show up as bouncing off the walls. Add scent games, retrieving and training to daily walks, and teach a calm “settle” for downtime indoors. Puppies and young dogs also need lots of sleep, so build regular nap times into the day.
Why does my Springer jump on everyone?
Their love of people often comes out as jumping. Reward sits for greetings, ask visitors to wait for calm, and keep greetings low-key. Read why dogs jump on everyone for a full plan.
Why does my Springer Spaniel pull on the leash?
With their nose to the ground, Springers follow scents eagerly. Reward walking near you, let them sniff as a reward, and practise in quiet areas first. See how to stop leash pulling.
Why won’t my Springer come back when called?
Interesting smells and birds can easily win over your voice. Build recall with high-value rewards and a long line before trusting off-leash freedom. Our guide to teaching your dog to come when called helps.
Do Springer Spaniels suffer from separation anxiety?
Many Springers love company and can find long periods alone stressful. Practise short absences, provide food puzzles, and avoid dramatic departures. See helping a dog with separation anxiety.
Do English Springer Spaniels shed a lot?
They shed moderately and the feathered coat can mat if neglected. Brush a few times a week and check behind the ears and legs, where tangles form first. A tidy trim around the feet and ears also helps keep mud out of the house. Our guide on controlling dog shedding has a simple routine.
How do I get rid of wet Springer smell?
Springers love water and mud, which can leave a lingering smell on furniture. Towel-dry after swims, wash bedding often, and air rooms out. See removing dog smell from furniture.
Why does my Springer bark when I leave?
Barking when alone is often linked to frustration or stress. Exercise first, give a long-lasting chew, and build alone time gradually. Our guide on why dogs bark when you leave explains more.
Why does my Springer steal things and run off?
As retrievers, Springers love carrying items, and a chase game makes it even more fun. Teach “drop” with a trade for treats, and give plenty of approved toys to carry. Avoid chasing your dog when it grabs something; walk away or call it to you for a reward instead.
Is my Springer Spaniel puppy chewing everything normal?
Yes, puppies explore with their mouths. Puppy-proof your home, rotate safe chews, and redirect gently. Frozen chew toys can soothe sore gums during teething. See stopping a puppy chewing furniture.
Why is my Springer puppy peeing in the house?
Excited Springer puppies often have accidents, especially after play or when greeting people. Take your puppy out often, reward outdoor success right away, and keep greetings calm to reduce excitement wetting. See a puppy that keeps peeing in the house for a full routine.
Training tips for an English Springer Spaniel
Springers love to work with their people, which makes them a joy to train. The key is channelling their natural instincts into games you control.
- Start early with socialisation and gentle, reward-based training; Springers love to please.
- Use their natural skills: retrieving, sniffing and searching games make great rewards. Hiding a favourite toy and asking your dog to find it is an easy daily game.
- Keep sessions short and fun, finishing on a success so your dog is always keen for the next one.
- Work on recall daily using a long line until it is reliable around distractions.
- Teach calm greetings by rewarding four paws on the floor, and ask family and friends to follow the same rule.
- Practise “drop” and “leave it” with trades so your dog happily gives items up.
- Build a calm “settle” routine to help your Springer relax indoors.
Health questions owners ask
This is general information only. Talk to your vet about your Springer’s health, especially if you notice any change in behaviour or comfort.
Why does my Springer Spaniel get ear infections?
Long, heavy ears can trap moisture, especially after swimming. Dry ears gently after water play and talk to your vet if you notice odour, redness or head shaking.
Are Springers prone to eye problems?
Some inherited eye conditions are discussed in the breed. Ask breeders about eye screening and talk to your vet about regular checks. Mention any cloudiness, squinting or bumping into things.
Do Springer Spaniels have hip issues?
Hip and joint concerns can occur, as with many active breeds. Keep your dog lean and fit, and talk to your vet about appropriate exercise for growing puppies. Ask breeders about hip screening of the parents.
Why is my Springer scratching so much?
Skin allergies and irritation can affect the breed. Note when the scratching happens and talk to your vet; our guide on why dogs scratch so much explains common causes.
Is an English Springer Spaniel right for you?
Springers fit best with active households who enjoy walks, outdoor time and training together. Here are the questions owners ask most.
Can a Springer Spaniel live in an apartment?
Possible, but only with an active owner who provides lots of daily exercise, outings and brain games, whatever the weather. A home with easy access to green spaces is usually a better fit.
Are Springer Spaniels good with kids?
Many are friendly, playful family dogs who love children and enjoy being part of every family activity. Their enthusiasm can knock over toddlers, so supervise and teach calm play. Fetch and hide-and-seek are great games for kids and Springers to share.
Do Springers get along with other pets?
They usually enjoy other dogs. With small pets and birds, their hunting instincts may show, so introduce carefully and supervise. Many Springers raised with cats learn to live with them peacefully, especially when calm behaviour around the cat is rewarded from the start.
Is a Springer Spaniel a good first dog?
For an active first-time owner willing to train and exercise daily, yes. If you want a calm, low-energy companion, consider another breed. Grooming time and regular ear care are also part of the commitment.
Related guides
- Separation anxiety solutions
- Leash problems and fixes
- Dog shedding problems
- Enrichment ideas for busy dogs
- Why dogs bark at everything
- Compare with the Cocker Spaniel
Share your English Springer Spaniel experience
Springer owners have endless stories about muddy adventures and boundless joy. Did a recall trick, a grooming habit or a new game make a big difference for your dog? Share your tips and questions in our dog owner community, or browse more breed guides.