The English Springer Spaniel is a gundog which is used for flushing, or springing game in the field. They are the ideal breed for the rough shooter as they will work all day, on land or in the water. These dogs are very popular within a family environment, a good all rounder. It is one of the most versatile of the sporting dogs.
The English Springer Spaniel is a compact, medium sized sporting dog with long ears. This dogs expression is alert, kindly and trusting, just think of the expression 'spaniel eyes'. When they look up at you with those deep brown or dark hazel eyes they could get away with anything. Springers are friendly dogs that are always eager to please. They are well proportioned dogs, nicely balanced, built to cover rough ground well and quickly.The Springer is a hardy dog which is well-behaved and quick to learn and respond. They are easily controlled, not highly strung, aggressive or shy. Whilst initially one breed of dog, the mid-twentieth century saw The English Springer Spaniel beginning to divide into two distinct lines known to us today as the Show English Springer Spaniel and the Working English Springer Spaniel. The Working dog is generally bred to improve its keen sense of smell, speed, style, working ability and endurance. Both types, however, have the instinct to work and can be trained to the gun. Through training this is an ideal family pet, which does not do well in a kennel environment. The typical Springer is an extrovert by nature, friendly, eager to please, quick to learn and willing to obey. Springers are known to continue to develop and mature until they are 2 years old. Aggression and dominance are not common in the breed but can be a problem if not handled carefully when young. As a rule they make good companions and family dogs, being well behaved and quick to learn and respond. SO YOU THINK YOU WANT A SPRINGER ?
The Show bred as opposed to the Working bred ESS can be bigger, with heavier bone and a slightly different shape to the dome of the head, ear set and length and muzzle. Some people might find the Show bred ESS more aesthetically pleasing as he is in the main bred for his good looks.