10 Reasons why Springer Spaniels are the Best Family Dogs - By: Phil Marks

OK. Maybe I am biased, having owned English and Welsh springers which leads me to this springer spaniel advice article. If you are looking for a dog, whether a rescue dog or a puppy, then here are ten reasons why either of these two breeds is the best for you, whether you have a young family, are looking a loyal companion or just want a fun dog to get you out into the fresh air and countryside.

Reason #1 - History Equals Refinement

Springer spaniels are part of the Gundog group and we can trace their history back at least ten centuries. This means that they are highly developed, but without any of the bad inbreeding traits that you see in some other dogs.

Reason #2 - Ancient Breeding means Variety

Given their history and a thousand years refinement, there are several spaniel lines to choose from, within which we have the Springers. The American Kennel Club of England recognises two distinct pedigrees of Springer Spaniel: The English Springer and the Welsh Springer. They are clearly close cousins, yet clearly distinct. The English Springer is much more numerous than the Welsh Springer.

Reason #3 - They are Popular and this Means 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 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

Medium size means that they fit comfortably into the average family auto, without needing a huge SUV or truck, and they are small enough to travel easily on the railroad.

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 - Terrific Personality

I have owned both English and Welsh Springers and can testify that they are great fun, full of vitality, but also loving and affectionate. They love to play games. Retrieving is a strong natural trait and they will fetch all day long. They love the water and that too can be an endless source of fun.

Reason # 9 - Choice of 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 - They Need Plenty of Exercise

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.

About the Author

Written by a long time springer spaniel owner - both English and Welsh types. If you are considering other breeds, then check to see how they compare with this springer spaniel advice given here. You can discover a whole lot more about this versatile and fun breed at ==> http://www.springerspanieladvice.com

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