English Springer Spaniels

50 Questions English Springer Spaniel Owners Ask

1. How often should I groom my English Springer Spaniel?
   They have medium-length, feathered coats that need brushing 3–4 times a week to prevent matting and manage shedding. Regular grooming keeps them looking smart and supports skin health, especially when paired with a nutritious raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic.

2. Do English Springer Spaniels shed a lot?
   They shed moderately year-round. Brushing and a balanced, natural diet help keep their coats healthy and shedding under control.

3. How much exercise does an English Springer Spaniel need each day?
   At least 1.5 to 2 hours of physical and mental exercise. They are energetic working dogs and need active lifestyles to stay content.

4. Are English Springer Spaniels prone to health problems?
   Yes. Common issues include:

• Hip dysplasia

• Ear infections

• Eye conditions like PRA

• Skin allergies A raw diet rich in nutrients, such as Poppy’s Picnic, supports long-term health.

5. What’s the average lifespan of an English Springer Spaniel?
   Typically 12 to 14 years. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and proactive vet care contribute to longevity.

6. How often should I bathe my Springer Spaniel?
   Every 6–8 weeks, or after muddy adventures. Use a gentle, dog-safe shampoo.

7. How do I clean my Springer Spaniel’s ears?
   Check and clean weekly with a vet-recommended ear cleanser. Their floppy ears are prone to moisture build-up and infection.

8. How do I know if my Springer is overweight?
   You should feel their ribs easily without pressing hard. Follow feeding guidelines and monitor treats. Poppy’s Picnic offers portioned raw meals to support ideal weight. Independent trade organisation, UK Pet food, has worked with vets to create a useful sizeometer for dogs so it's easier to track your dog's weight. Download it here 

9. What toys do Springer Spaniels like best?
   They enjoy retrieving toys, puzzle feeders, and interactive games. Use food-based toys with Poppy’s Picnic POWER BALLS for enrichment.

10. How can I keep my Springer’s coat healthy?
    Regular grooming, trimming feathered areas, and a raw diet with omega-rich ingredients like those in Poppy’s Picnic support coat shine and skin health.

English Springer Spaniel Behaviour & Temperament: 40 More Common Questions

11. Are Springers good with children?
    Yes, they’re friendly, affectionate, and love to be part of the family. Early socialisation ensures positive interactions.

12. Do Springer Spaniels get along with other dogs?
    Yes, they’re usually sociable and playful, especially if well-socialised from a young age.

13. Are Springers easy to train?
    Yes, they’re intelligent, eager to please, and respond well to positive reinforcement. Use Poppy’s Picnic treats during sessions.

14. Do Springers bark a lot?
    They may bark to alert or if under-stimulated. Mental stimulation and routine help manage barking.

15. Can Springers live in flats?
    They can adapt, but only with ample outdoor exercise and stimulation. Ideally suited to active homes with garden access.

16. Do Springer Spaniels like cuddles?
    Yes! They’re affectionate and enjoy being close to their people.

17. Can Springer Spaniels be left alone?
    Not for long periods. They form strong bonds and may become anxious. Enrichment and gradual alone-time training help.

18. Are Springer Spaniels hypoallergenic?
    No. They shed their fur.

19. How do I socialise my Springer Spaniel?
    Introduce them to people, pets, and new environments positively and frequently from puppyhood.

20. Do  Springer Spaniel's enjoy being in water?
    Yes! Many love to swim. Always supervise and rinse them afterwards to avoid ear infections.

21. Why does my Springer spaniel chase birds or animals?
    They have strong hunting instincts. Use lead training, reliable recall, and redirect with games.

22. Are Springer Spaniels good first-time dogs?
    Yes, if the owner is active and committed to training. They’re loyal and trainable.

23. Do Springer Spaniels get bored easily?
    Yes, especially if under-exercised. Use training, scent games, and enrichment feeders with Poppy’s Picnic meals.

24. Can Springer Spaniels do agility or gundog work?
    Absolutely. They thrive in structured activities and working roles.

25. How do I calm my Springer spaniel?
    Structured routines, plenty of exercise, and mental stimulation help. Calming enrichment with frozen Poppy’s Picnic treats works well.

26. What are common behavioural issues in Springer Spaniels?

• Jumping

• Pulling on the lead

• Barking when bored Consistent training and stimulation reduce these tendencies.

27. Why does my Springer stare at me?
    It’s a sign of attention or anticipation. Use eye contact for bonding and training.

28. Do Springers need a job or task?
    Yes, they’re happiest when working or learning. Use tasks and challenges to fulfil them.

29. How do I stop Springer Spaniels chewing?
    Provide plenty of chew toys and rotate them. Boredom often leads to destructive chewing.

30. Why does my Springer Spaniel follow me everywhere?
    They’re loyal and attached to their humans. Teach independence with alone-time training.

31. Can older people manage a Springer?
    Yes, if they’re active and have help. Daily walks and play are essential.

32. Can Springers be therapy dogs?
    Yes, they’re gentle and responsive with the right training and temperament.

33. What are signs of stress in Springer Spaniels?
    Panting, pacing, yawning, avoiding contact. Create calm spaces and reduce stimulation.

34. Why is my Springer digging?
    Instinct or boredom. Offer enrichment activities or create a digging zone.

35. Why do Springer Spaniels nip at ankles?
    Usually playful behaviour. Redirect with toys and discourage gently.

36. How do I stop my Springer jumping on guests?
    Train an alternative like ‘sit’ to greet, and reward calm behaviour.

37. Why do Springer Spaniels pace at night?
    Could be anxiety or excess energy. Ensure a consistent routine and calm evening environment.

38. Why do Springers bark at noises?
    They’re alert dogs. Gradual exposure and desensitisation help reduce reactions.

39. How do I stop my Springer Spaniel lead pulling?
    Use positive training and stop when they pull. Reward loose-lead walking with Poppy’s Picnic treats.

40. How do I keep my Springer Spaniel mentally stimulated?
    Use trick training, hide-and-seek, and puzzle feeders. Poppy’s Picnic meals work well in enrichment toys.

41. Can Springer Spaniels live with cats?
    Yes, if raised together. Monitor interactions and set boundaries.

42. How do I manage separation anxiety in Springer Spaniels?
    Build up alone time gradually and use distractions like enrichment toys with frozen Poppy’s Picnic POWER BALLS.

43. Do Springer Spaniels adapt to change well?
    Generally, yes. Maintain routines and offer familiar comforts.

44. How do I introduce a baby to my Springer?
    Let them adjust to new scents and sounds. Supervise interactions and reward calmness.

45. Why do Springer Spaniels eat grass?
    Occasionally normal. If frequent, monitor for stomach upset or dietary gaps.

46. Can I run with my Springer?
    Yes, once fully grown. They make excellent jogging companions.

47. Should I crate train my Springer Spaniel?
    Yes, crates offer safe spaces when introduced positively.

48. How do I manage my Springer's energy indoors?
    Interactive toys, training games, and scatter feeding with Poppy’s Picnic keep them busy.

49. Why do Springer Spaniels howl?
    They may respond to sounds or seek attention. Reinforce quiet behaviour.

50. What’s the ideal daily routine for a Springer Spaniel?

• Morning walk and breakfast (e.g., Poppy’s Picnic raw meal)

• Midday training or play

• Evening walk and wind-down

• Bedtime calm with enrichment Routine, activity, and connection are key to Springer happiness.