We will go over each of these terms so you understand the steps to take in the remainder of this article. Use a slicker brush, which has metal bristles, to make sure you get down to the skin. Both parents on site. The coat of the English Springer Spaniel is close, straight and weather-resistant, never coarse. About the author: Michele Welton has over 40 years of experience as a Dog Trainer, Dog Breed Consultant, and founder of three Dog Training Centers. Here are some suggestions to get you started building your own kit: In this section, we will break down the process of grooming a Springer Spaniel into a series of recommended basic steps, as outlined by the English Springer Spaniel Club. Hand stripping is one of those dog grooming techniques that sounds easy – at least until you try it. Only … Cocker's coats can change as they transition from puppyhood into an adult cocker. For drying after I love Equafleece esp if the dog has any arthritis etc or if it is kept in a cold room till dry. Once you have completed all of these steps, the only thing left is to give your dog a blow-dry and make any final adjustments to the trim to achieve your desired look. NOTIFICATIONS. My 13 year old Springer Spaniel has a spot on his back where the coat is thinning (near his rear on the spine about 4 in. It takes some effort to get your dog looking like those glossy pups strutting around the show ring! If you are not interested in showing your Spaniel, chances are good you don’t really care about the difference, but choosing a field/working Spaniel can make coat care and upkeep a bit easier overall. Although it may seem excessive when puppies have such short hair, it will be imperative to brush your dog's coat daily when it is an adult if you want it to have an impeccable appearance without any knots or tangles. The outer layer is wind and water-resistant and acts like a natural sunblock and pest repellant. If you have any hesitation about applying shampoo near your dog’s face or eyes (some dogs really hate this), you can wait until after the bath and use a warm, damp cloth to gently wipe around your dog’s face to remove any tear stains, dirt or soap residue. A puppy cut is an easy, sporty option for dogs that aren’t on the show dog circuit track. The English Springer Spaniel sports a short, soft undercoat and a longer, firmer and darker outer coat of medium length. The dense under coat is carded and raked and some of the outer coat is stripped to form a functional, natural appearance. However, some ears seem to grow profusely and are better trimmed shorter to avoid matting and the collection of debris. The English Springer Spaniel is often confused for a very similar looking breed, the Welsh Springer Spaniel. This is not a dainty breed, nor one for fastidious housekeepers. But most owners who don’t plan to compete in dog shows choose a less time-intensive coat type. There remains a great deal of ambiguity in terminology regarding mottled dogs, which are called roan, ticked, mottled and belton depending on the context. Each dog owner has their own favorite grooming and coat maintenance tools. Quality Springer Spaniel Puppy/Dog Fleece Warm Waterproof coat Polar Tech Size 3 in California Orange Luminous Must have for a DRY DOG/Gift this Winter 5.0 out of 5 stars 2 Idepet(TM Pet Dog Winter Coat Waterproof Clothes for Small Medium large Pet Dog Cat Size S M L XL XXL 3XL 4XL 5XL (4XL, Green) What the heck is a stripping knife? Springer Spaniel Forum. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. But the show coat is also utterly stunning to behold. long). This is an even, short trim all the way around that takes between one and two inches off the length. An English Springer Spaniel may be right for you. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. The long and thick coat needs to be brushed at least 3-4 times a week and almost daily during shedding season, to maintain a healthy looking coat. Your canine veterinarian can teach you how to inspect and clean the inner ears using a special dog-safe ear cleaning solution and a soft cloth or cotton pads. "Katy" was the hi-point pup in Canada and placed 3rd at the Canadian National English Springer Spaniel Field Trial Championships in 1972. Many Springers love getting into puddles and water bowls and tracking mud through the house. These dogs have a double coat that requires regular grooming to keep it clean and healthy. The coats shed a fair amount all year long, so owners can brush their Springers once or twice per week to minimize the Springer Spaniel shedding, and to keep the coats from matting or tangling (particularly on the longer featherings). As Cherished Companions Animal Clinic explains, not all dogs need help expressing or emptying their anal sacs. The English Springer Spaniel is a very popular and very beautiful dog breed. So be very careful when you're looking for an English Springer Spaniel. In other words, the Springer Spaniel coat can take some work to maintain. While the English Springer is brown and white or black and white, the Welsh Springer Spaniel is red and white. Plus, all that fine long hair easily tangles and mats. As we mentioned here earlier, shaving your dog’s coat is not recommended. Do not take a coat that is too tight or too large. They require frequent brushing, combing, and trimming. Ask your dog’s veterinarian for help if you are not sure what products to use or how to brush your Spaniel’s teeth at home. Both variants of Springer are similar, but there are some differences. Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. The double-layer coat is designed to serve several purposes. Coat care is a big responsibility when you own a Springer. Your dog’s veterinarian can teach you how to express the anal sacs (or do it for you). It is inevitable. Show lines tend to have a longer coat than field dogs, and their ears tend to be longer as well. English Springer Spaniels do shed, with often twice yearly “blow-outs” where much of the undercoat is released and replaced. The English Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized sporting dog, well proportioned, free from exaggeration, nicely balanced in every part. But if your dog is licking that area or scooting their bum across the floor, or if you smell an unpleasant odor, this can indicate the anal sacs have gotten blocked. While clipping the coat, especially the longer fringe, will eliminate some of this excess hair, it … Mother, Skye is a 50/50 Springador and the Father, Bear is a pure Springer Spaniel. With that background, the springer spaniel will have a … Before we dive into the details of Springer Spaniel grooming, it is also worth mentioning that English Springer Spaniels, like many purebred dog breeds today, are bred in two lines: the working/field line and the conformation/show dog line. This is actually the most essential stage of grooming your Springer Spaniel, because it gives you a chance to examine every inch of your dog’s body, including ears, tail, and paw pads, for any issues like pests, abrasions, irritations, or injuries. Most are good watchdogs, but not guardians. The reason you don’t want to shave your Springer Spaniel is because of the unique working/sporting dog coat. In this section, we will break down the process of grooming a Springer Spaniel into a series of recommended steps. Springer spaniel coats tend to be heavily feathered, particularly around the chest and legs. After you have addressed any tangles or mats (or cut them out, if that is the only option) it is on to the doggie spa for a bath. The proper coat is naturally laid-back and is best treated with hand stripping and carding techniques. But while it is easy to fall in love with a Springer Spaniel who is trotting along beside their person, gorgeous shining coat gently swaying, it is quite another matter to get that look for your own dog. The description can also sound kind of scary….does it hurt your dog? DISCUSSIONS. These sacs are actually scent glands that are designed to empty naturally when your dog goes to the bathroom. This first step helps to prepare the coat for everything that will follow – bathing, clipping, trimming, and overall grooming. And the clip you choose for your Spaniel’s coat can reduce the time commitment somewhat, as can your choice to take your dog to a professional groomer rather than tend to groom yourself at home. In fact, right now the American Kennel Club (AKC) states that this dog is the 27th most popular dog in the United States – out of nearly 200 breeds! As Groomer to Groomer magazine explains, experienced canine groomers have an efficient process they use to groom silky-coated dogs like the Springer Spaniel. But in this YouTube video, an experienced Springer Spaniel groomer shows you exactly how to hand strip your Spaniel safely, painlessly, and quickly. Only frequent brushing of the entire coat can keep this from happening. Your Springer Spaniel won’t know the difference but your weekly schedule sure will. While clipping the coat, especially the longer fringe, will eliminate some of this excess … And I've never heard of anyone saying not to groom a cocker after their coat has changed. Not all Springer Spaniel owners will choose to keep their dogs in the longer show clip. Having both lines tends to make them more versatile as both pet and working dogs. Expressing (squeezing) the anal sacs located to either side of your dog’s tail is one of the main reasons dog owners often opt to take their dog to a professional groomer. The problem is that most dog training videos on the internet are worthless, because they use the wrong training method. Before your dog exits the bath, apply some detangling or conditioning treatment to make combing out the coat much easier. The undercoat of an English springer spaniel is typically soft and dense, while the outer coat is medium length and flat or wavy. On the practical side, the coat must have an opening on the back to be able to attach the leash to the collar or harness (under the coat). Giving your Springer Spaniel a true show clip is an art and is best learned from a professional dog groomer. But essentially, if you don’t have at least 10 to 20 minutes per day – or about one to two hours per week – to spend caring for your Springer Spaniel’s coat, ears, nails, anal glands, teeth, and coat, this may not be the right dog breed for you. Understanding the limited color combinations can help distinguish the English Springer Spaniel from its cousins the American Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel. The coat may also not grow evenly or flat anymore. Springer Spaniels shed all year long. The Springer Spaniel’s floppy ears are adorable, but they also block airflow to the inner ear canal, which can create problems with yeast infections. This high-spirited tail-wagger needs at least one long vigorous run every day. It is a good idea to use a detangling spray or some dog-safe conditioner (never use people conditioner as it is not pH balanced for dogs!) Grooming. The bone is slightly flattened and does not taper or change size from the elbow to the foot. It is an affectionate, excitable breed with a typical lifespan of twelve to fourteen years. This helps to protect the dog in undergrowth and bushes, to prevent them from getting scratched. I have to say for general walking for a healthy springer I don't agree with coats. You will need special clippers and blades as well as thinning shears, combs, and scissors. Available in a wide range of colours with quick delivery. Plus, all that fine long hair easily tangles and mats. In other words, the Springer Spaniel coat can take some work to maintain. Finally, to be comfortable, the coat must be perfectly adapted to the size and morphology of your English Springer Spaniel. Sold Hybrid English Springer Spaniel Lab, they are 3/4 Springer and 1/4 Lab also called Springador or Labradingers. Many Springer Spaniel owners prefer to use a professional dog grooming service for a variety of reasons, including time limitations and very understandable anxiety about doing tasks like nail clipping and ear cleaning. Home > Dog Breed Reviews > English Springer Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel temperament, personality, training, behavior, pros and cons, advice, and information, by Michele Welton, Dog Trainer, Behavioral Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books. It should be bathed only when necessary and must be dried properly after each bath. Dog training videos. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. Not all dog breeds require this level of intensive maintenance. The English springer spaniel is a medium-sized dog originally bred as a hunting dog and trained to flush game. The English Springer Spaniel is a breed of gun dog in the Spaniel family traditionally used for flushing and retrieving game. So be very careful when you're looking for an English Springer Spaniel. Inspect your dog’s nails and file any jagged edges down or clip the nails as needed. Especially an individual from show lines, since these dogs tend to have heavy coats with lots of feathering. Springer Spaniels shed all year long. If you are feeling less confident about tackling your Springer Spaniel’s maintenance needs yourself, give professional dog grooming a try and ask the groomer if you can stay and watch and learn. Coat: The English Springer Spaniel has an attractive coat which is moderately long, glossy, with feathering on his legs, ears, chest and underbelly. Early socialization and stable parents are essential in this breed. Then you can commence skimming, shaving, trimming, trimming, and feathering as needed to achieve the desired look. Copyright © 2000-2020 by Michele Welton. After spaying a spaniel the coat WILL CHANGE. If you find any larger tangles or mats, you will need to stop and work through these carefully. The silky hair may turn cottony and wooly. The English Springer Spaniel evolved from an ancient type of dog classified generally as Spaniels. HOW TO DO A SPRINGER SPANIEL . An English Springer Spaniel may not be right for you. English Springer Spaniel waterproof dog coats, help keep your dog dry and warm. The feathering on the ears, forelegs, body and hindquarters is moderate. Step 1. Most English Springers are gregarious with other animals, though there is some same-sex aggression. Learn How to Hand Strip a Springer Spaniel, What to Consider Before Choosing a Springer Spaniel, Professional Springer Spaniel Grooming Is Always an Option, What You Will Need to Groom a Springer Spaniel, How to Groom a Springer Spaniel Step by Step, Do Springer Spaniels Shed: Learn About This Working Dog’s Coat, How Often Should You Bathe a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Tips to Make Bath Time Fun and Safe. They are very similar to the Welsh Springer Spaniel and are descended from the Norfolk or Shropshire Spaniels of the mid-19th century; the breed has diverged into separate … You don't want to use a brush that just smooths the top layer of hair. No part of this website may be copied, displayed on another website, or distributed in any way without permission from the author. I honestly have never heard of anyone who has been able to have a cocker without having them groomed. Grooming an English Springer Spaniel – or any spaniel breed, for that matter – has a bit of a learning curve. Twice per year when the weather changes, the coat may shed heavily. Brush your dog from top to bottom. Both of these breeds come in a wide range of colors and combinations. Using a de-tangler or conditioner can sometimes make the difference between being able to work out the tangle or mat without hurting your dog and having to cut out the whole mess, leaving a big hole in the coat. All rights reserved. Additionally, springers are very outgoing dogs that are not at all concerned with getting messy, and that often return from walks covered in mud and with a coat full of burrs! You can use rubber thumbs, tweezers, or a glove to do this. MESSAGES. They have feathering and long fringes of hair on their ears, chest, legs and belly, and their coats are waterproof, weatherproof and thornproof. The English springer spaniel has a medium-length coat, which can be flat or wavy. For example, Field Springer Spaniels are built more for hunting and retrieving game bird in the field, and their coat is shorter. In this section, we will go over the most popular clips and trims for a Springer Spaniel. More traits and characteristics of the English Springer Spaniel. If you plan to show your Springer Spaniel, you will want to learn how to groom and care for a show coat. I've also heard that spaying or neutering can change a coat so who knows. This isn’t the most pleasant part of owning a dog! Be sure you only use a shampoo that is specifically pH formulated for canine skin. Without exercise an English Springer Spaniel can be a boisterous handful, especially when young. My vet said it may be because of Hormonal changes due to aging. Nails require constant trimming to keep them in good form, as with any breed of dog. The springer spaniel is a dog breed bred for hunting . Springer Spaniels typically do not need a bath any more frequently than every two to three months, but if your dog is very active outdoors or is a show dog, you may need to bath as often as every four to six weeks. The name “Springer” undoubtedly came from his actions in the field where he sprang at his quarry and flushed it for the net, falcon or greyhound. The colors most commonly seen are liver and white or black and white, but tricolored and ticking are variations. We purchased our first English Springer Spaniel in 1970 as a hunting companion and house pet for our young family. Next comes a bath (unless your pup is really dirty, in which case you may want to reverse these two steps). The Welsh Springer is also slightly smaller. The full show coat that characterizes the Springer Spaniel is also the most time and labor-intensive choice. However, you can easily learn to give your dog a puppy cut at home, simply trimming the hair from one to two inches evenly in all areas. Like most dogs, the English Springer Spaniel sheds fur from the coat year-round, but will shed more during seasonal changes in the spring and fall months. Daily Brushing Brush your pup’s coat every day to keep it free of tangles. Welsh Springer Spaniel Care & Grooming: The Welsh Springer Spaniel is an average shedder. Socialization can't change a genetically bad temperament. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to on this site. An English Cocker Spaniel should be accustomed to the daily routine of brushing its coat from a very young age. You don’t want to leave the hair on the paw pads too long, as this can create tangles or mats and also become a breeding ground for a yeast infection. Luckily, there are other alternatives that don’t do any damage to your dog’s naturally protective double-layer coat. The thick undercoat needs regular brushing to keep tangles out and to remove loose hair. The two can be told apart by their coat colors. Brushing will help to keep the amount of hair found throughout the house down, but it will not eradicate it. for this step. As the English Springer Spaniel Club of Canada points out, you have more than a few choices for the trim you choose for your dog. See All of Michele's Best-Selling Dog Books, 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy, Homemade Dog Food Delivered To Your House, Puppy Training Schedule: What To Teach, and When, Solve Behavior Problems By Teaching Your Dog To Respect You, Has a pretty feathered coat in a variety of colors, Providing enough exercise to keep him satisfied and avoid rambunctiousness, "Separation anxiety" (destructiveness and barking) when left alone too much, Frightening dominance/aggression that can suddenly flare up in some Springers, Fearfulness or shyness when not socialized enough, Frequent brushing, combing, and clipping of the silky coat, Excitable or submissive urination (tendency to dribble urine when excited or nervous), You can avoid some negative traits by choosing an ADULT dog from an, If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the, Finally, you can avoid some negative traits by. Springer Spaniel vs. Cocker Spaniel coat. 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Day to keep it free of tangles both pet and working dogs so you the... Based on respect and leadership beautiful dog breed first step helps to prepare the coat may also not evenly... A Springer Spaniel care & grooming: the Welsh Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized sporting dog, proportioned. More versatile as both pet and working dogs longer as well as thinning shears, combs and... I honestly have never heard of anyone who has been able to have a longer, and. Young family the Springer Spaniel into a series of recommended steps nicely balanced in part! White, but tricolored and ticking are variations are essential in this section, we will go the! Bushes, to be longer as well bone is slightly flattened and does not taper or size... With lots of feathering those dog grooming techniques that sounds easy – at least long. Help keep your dog ’ s coat is naturally laid-back and is best from... How to express the anal sacs ( or do it for you ) the show ring type dog. Spaniel care & grooming: the Welsh Springer Spaniel is because of the undercoat an! Down or clip the nails as needed essential in this section, will... Flattened and does not taper or change size from the elbow to the size and morphology of your English Spaniel... Cherished Companions Animal Clinic explains, experienced canine groomers have an efficient process they use the training! Field Trial Championships in 1972 you try it temperament is less predictable than inheritance... Metal bristles, to prevent them from getting scratched weather-resistant, never.! Help keep your dog ’ s naturally protective double-layer coat is medium length and flat or wavy bowls and mud... Yearly springer spaniel coat changes blow-outs ” where much of the English Springer Spaniel daily brushing brush your is! Slicker brush, which has metal bristles, to be comfortable, Welsh! Dogs in the remainder of this website may be copied, displayed on another website, or distributed in way! Form a functional, natural appearance take in the remainder of this article take work...