To get down to the basic's of the springer, you have to understand there are two "types" of
springers..... the field bred springer and the bench or show bred springer.
While they are the same breed, they are still very different.

The bench/show bredhas a longer coat and ears,
with a dominantly black back (can also be liver) with little to no tickings.
The field bred ESS has a shorter coat and ears, with lots of
tickings or freckles, as well as a dominantly white body.

Along with physical differences, you need to know the persoanlity differences.
The show bred springer is bred to do exactly the name... show. These dogs are bred to win in
conformation. And while they should be able to hunt as well, many do not. They are
typically more mellow or laid back than the field breds.

A field bred springer is bred to work in the field and will not place in conformation. Why?
Well that's politics for you. They are generally very high strung and need a job.
Whether it be hunting, or something like agility, tracking, obedience, etc., they need to do something.

But all springers, whether field bred, show bred, or a mix of the two, share many similar traits.
Your typical springer is a happy go lucky, goofy, sensative, loving, loyal companion. They love
children and other dogs. Springers are not good pets to have if you keep rabbits, birds, or other
small animals. They are hunting dogs and will do what they were created to do.... hunt.

All springers require regular exercise and mental stimulation. A walk around the block on leash
is not going to cut it for these dogs. They need to run in the fields, swim, walk a couple miles,
do sports, whatever you can offer them.

The ESS is not a breed that you can chain up or pen up outside and leave alone. They will go insane.
They need to be part of the family. You need to stimulate their minds and give them formal training
or you will have alot of dog on your hands.

So if you don't appreciate kisses, a wet dog, and an exercise companion, the springer is probably not for you.
If you are not willing to train the dog formally for at least its first year, the springer is probably not for you.
If you want a dog you can leave home alone most of the day, the springer is probably not for you.

As with any breed you are interested in, do your homework. Look at lots of breeders before chosing a puppy.
When looking at breeders you want to be sure they are at least testing the dogs hips & eyes. (OFA & CERF).
A more desirable breeder will also test for PFK and elbows. Your breeder should either be showing in comformation
or field trials. You do not want your puppy to come before 8 weeks of age. And you want to be sure your
breeder is offering at least a 2 year health guarantee.

Be sure to also check out the English Springer Spaniel Rescue of America. They have many dogs of all ages and
colors and genders looking for new loving homes.

Copyright © 2000-2005 Helena Normark/Graphic Garden^®.