English Springer Spaniel Overview
The English Springer Spaniel originated in England during the 19th century, developed as a flushing gun dog for game birds and small mammals. The breed’s intelligence, stamina, and eagerness to please made them invaluable hunting companions. They are recognised by the ANKC as friendly, obedient sporting dogs with boundless energy and enthusiasm.
English Springer Spaniels have established presence in Australia among sporting enthusiasts and active families. They are ANKC-recognised and represented by breed clubs nationwide. Their moderate size (18–25 kg), adaptability to climates, and trainability suit diverse Australian households. They perform excellently in Australian hunting trials and fieldwork. Their grooming needs (6–8 weeks) are moderate, though brushing is essential. They suit active, rural, and suburban homes equally.
English Springer Spaniels excel as family companions, hunting dogs, and first-time owner pets for active households. Their affectionate nature, eagerness to please, and exceptional trainability make them ideal. They require 60+ minutes daily exercise and consistent mental stimulation. These versatile dogs suit families committed to outdoor activity and training.
English Springer Spaniel Personality & Temperament
Understanding the English Springer Spaniel temperament is the most important step before bringing one home.
Affectionate, eager to please, intelligent, loyal, enthusiastic, friendly
Breed Ratings at a Glance
How the English Springer Spaniel scores across key traits (1 = Low, 5 = High).
Is a English Springer Spaniel Right for You?
❌
House with yard
Excellent
Separation Anxiety: Moderate — this breed may struggle if left alone for long periods.
English Springer Spaniel Size & Appearance
Size
Medium
Weight M
22–25 kg
Weight F
18–25 kg
Height
48–51 cm
Coat
Medium length, feathered
Colours
Liver and white, black and white
Variations
None (standard only)
Brachycephalic
No
Hypoallergenic
No
English Springer Spaniel Health & Lifespan
14 years
Average Lifespan
Known Health Conditions
Joint development issue
Est. treatment: 2000–4000
Floppy ears
Est. treatment: 150–400
Eye condition
Est. treatment: 500–1500
Seizure disorder
Est. treatment: 500–1500
Pet Insurance for English Springer Spaniel
Avg Annual Insurance: $750
Monthly Estimate: Estimated 35–55/month
Recommended Insurers:
• Bow Wow Meow
• PD Insurance
• Petinsurance.com.au
• Budget Direct
• Petcover
• NRMA
TIP: Insure before 6 months.
Compare insurance policies for your English Springer Spaniel
Given this breed's known health conditions, comprehensive coverage is recommended for Australian owners.
Compare Pet Insurance →
English Springer Spaniel Cost of Ownership (AUD)
| Category | Amount (AUD) |
|---|
| PURCHASE |
$1,500 - $4,000 |
| Food |
$1,800 |
| Vet |
$550 |
| Grooming |
$250 |
| Insurance |
$750 |
| TOTAL/yr |
$2,504 |
| Monthly |
$142 |
| LIFETIME (14 yrs) |
$35,056 |
| FIRST-YEAR EXTRAS |
$1,200–$2,200 (desexing, vax, microchip, setup, puppy school) |
$35,056
Estimated lifetime cost (14 years)
All prices in AUD. Costs vary by state, vet, and lifestyle. Sources: PetSure, RSPCA, Animal Medicines Australia.
English Springer Spaniel Grooming Guide
Frequency
Every 6–8 weeks
Brushing
N/A
Professional Cost
60–90
Coat
Medium length, feathered
Shedding
★★★★☆/5
Tools
Slicker/pin brush, deshedding tool, nail clippers
Nails
Every 4–6 weeks | Ears: Monthly | Teeth: 2–3×/week
English Springer Spaniel Exercise Needs
Daily Exercise
60 minutes
Type
Running, swimming, retrieving, field trials
Energy
★★★★☆/5
Separation Anxiety
Moderate
Mental Stimulation
Puzzle feeders, sniff walks, 10min training/day
Sports
Agility, flyball, scent work, swimming (breed-dependent)
Training Your English Springer Spaniel
Trainability: ★★★★☆/5
First-Time Owner: ★★★★☆/5
N/A
Tips: Positive reinforcement only | Puppy school 8–12 weeks
Short 5–10min sessions | Socialise early with dogs, people, sounds
Finding a Reputable English Springer Spaniel Breeder
REGISTRIES:
• ANKC
• ABA
GREEN FLAGS: Health tests, ANKC/RPBA reg, visits allowed, health guarantee, screens buyers
RED FLAGS: Always available, multiple breeds, no health tests, Gumtree/social media sellers, pet shops
✅ Green Flags
- Registered with ANKC, RPBA, MDBA, or RightPaw
- Invites you to visit and meet the mother (dam)
- Provides health test results for parents
- Includes vet certificate, microchip, and vaccination records
- Has a waiting list (sign of demand, not a puppy farm)
❌ Red Flags
- Multiple breeds always available with no wait
- Won't let you visit or meet the mother
- No health testing mentioned
- Price significantly below market average
- Meets in a public place instead of their property
Trusted Australian Registries:
ANKC (ankc.org.au) · RPBA (rpba.org.au) · RightPaw (rightpaw.com.au) · Dogs Australia · ACF
Adopting a English Springer Spaniel in Australia
RESCUE OPTIONS:
• English Springer Spaniel Rescue Australia
• Spaniel Rescue Groups
• RSPCA Australia
Adoption Cost: $250–$600 AUD
(includes desexing, microchip, vaccinations)
Search PetRescue.com.au — Australia's largest adoption platform
❤️ Thousands of dogs need homes. Rescue dogs come desexed, vaccinated, and microchipped.
English Springer Spaniel — Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an English Springer Spaniel cost in Australia?
ANKC-registered breeders charge 1500–2500. Working-line pups may cost more due to specialised breeding. Pet insurance (35–55/month) and ongoing costs (30–50/week food) should factor into budgeting.
Are English Springer Spaniels good for first-time owners?
Yes, English Springer Spaniels suit active first-time owners. Their eagerness to please, trainability, and affectionate nature make them responsive to training. They require commitment to exercise and mental stimulation but are forgiving of novice mistakes.
Do English Springer Spaniels shed a lot?
Yes, they shed significantly year-round. Their feathered coat requires brushing 2–3 times weekly, daily during shedding season. Regular professional grooming (6–8 weeks) helps manage loose hair.
How long do English Springer Spaniels live?
English Springer Spaniels typically live 12–14 years with proper care. Regular exercise, appropriate nutrition, and health screening for hip dysplasia support longevity.
Are English Springer Spaniels good with children?
Absolutely. English Springer Spaniels are gentle, patient, and playful with children. Their moderate size and calm temperament make them excellent family companions. Early socialisation ensures positive interactions.
How much exercise does an English Springer Spaniel need?
English Springer Spaniels require 60+ minutes of daily vigorous exercise including running, swimming, and retrieving games. Mental stimulation (training, puzzle toys) is equally important. They thrive with active families and struggle without adequate exercise.
What health problems do English Springer Spaniels have?
Hip dysplasia, ear infections (floppy ears), progressive retinal atrophy, and epilepsy occur. Responsible breeders screen for genetic issues. Pet insurance (35–55/month) is recommended given predisposition to hip dysplasia.
Where can I find an English Springer Spaniel breeder in Australia?
Contact the English Springer Spaniel Club of Australia or ANKC-registered breeders. Choose show or working lines depending on your lifestyle. Request health screening certificates. Breed rescue groups operate in most states.
Is pet insurance worth it for English Springer Spaniels?
Yes, pet insurance (35–55/month) is valuable given their predisposition to hip dysplasia and ear infections. Treatment costs (1500–4000 for surgery) justify coverage over their 12–14 year lifespan.
Are English Springer Spaniels good hunting companions?
Yes, they excel at hunting. Generations of breeding for flushing game birds means they are outstanding in the field. Training for hunting is straightforward given their natural drive. They are equally happy as family pets without hunting.
