10 Reasons Why Springer Spaniels Are The Best Family Dogs

Over the years I have owned both types of Springer Spaniels, which leads me, unashamedly, to this completely biased springer spaniel advice article. If you are looking for a companion or family pet, whether a rescue dog or a puppy, then here are a whole load of reasons why either the English or Welsh Springer is the breed for you. He'll get you out into the fresh air and make you laugh every day!

Reason #1 - History Equals Refinement

Springer spaniels are part of the Gundog group and their history can be traced back a thousand years. This means that they are highly developed, but with all that time the bad inbreeding traits have been largely eliminated.

Reason #2 - History Equals Choice

Given their history and time for refinement, there are several spaniel lines to choose from, within which we have the Springers. The Kennel Club of England recognises two distinct pedigrees of Springer Spaniel: The English Springer and the Welsh Springer spaniel. They are closely related, yet quite distinct. The English Springer is much more widespread than the Welsh Springer.

Reason #3 - Popularity Equals Choice

Because these dogs are so popular, then there are many breeders. Therefore you will have plenty of breeders to choose from, and plenty of choice of puppy. You are very likely to find a breeder quite close to you, without having to travel for hours as you might have to for a rare breed.

Reason #4 - Popularity Equals Health

These dogs are so popular because they are generally healthy. This is thought to be because they date back so far and have been such a successful breed that the breeding stock is widespread, reducing the effects of inbreeding. When a genetic problem does appear (inevitable from time to time) then there is plenty of stock to enable the condition to be eliminated from the problem line.

Reason #5 - Economic to Keep

They are medium sized and can be fed for around $7-$9 a week (£5-£7), and because they do not need professional trimming and grooming you save on cost here too. Their general good health means that on average the veterinary costs are low too.

Reason #6 - Effective as Guard Dogs

They are not too small to be ignored by intruders - an adult English Springer weighs 50 lbs. They will warn of strangers but without being too aggressive. However, because they are so loyal, they will defend their family to the last.

Reason #7 - Travel

Their medium body size means that they fit comfortably into the average family small or mid-sized auto, without needing an SUV or truck to carry them around. They are small enough to travel easily on the railroad as well.

Reason #8 - Coat and Allergies

Unlike a long haired dog, they do not shed hair heavily - they are considered to be medium shedders. Because their hair is only medium length then it is relatively easy to keep them tidy and well groomed.

Reason # 8 - Personality

These dogs (and I have owned both English and Welsh Springers) are great fun, full of vitality, but also loving and affectionate. They love to play games and to retrieve, particularly when water is involved.

Reason # 9 - Color

The English Springer has two distinct colour lines - liver and white, and black and white; both may have tan markings in addition. In addition, the blue roan is a recognised coloring in the USA. The Welsh Springer has only one coloring - red and white. Does it seem frivolous to talk about color choice? Well, it is important to some owners.

Reason # 10 - Exercise for them Means Exercise for You

Yes, that is a good reason, because it ensures that you and your family will get plenty of exercise too, and a lot of fun into the bargain.

I have stopped at ten reasons, but I could give you more, such as them being intelligent, eager to learn and easy to train. All in all, this adds up to a very strong recommendation of these dogs.