Swedish Lapphund

Medium-sized and with the typical spitz characteristics of thick plush coat, curly tail and prick ears, the Swedish Lapphund is an intelligent and attractive dog. Coats come in bear-brown, black, brown or black and brown. Slightly longer than they are tall, the Swedish Lapphund is rectangular in outline.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Medium dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Very vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Lifespan:
Roughly 12 years
Weight:
19 – 21kg
Height:
45 – 51cm for males and 40 – 46cm for females
Colours:
Bear-brown, black, brown or black and brown
Size:
Medium
Kennel Club Groups:
Pastoral
Personality

Hardy, faithful, alert and intelligent, the Swedish Lapphund makes a fun companion for those who like spitz breed traits. They are vocal and this is a function the breed has been selected for, so they will alert to any suspicious movement or activity. This breed also retains a desire to hunt and to herd and so careful management and ownership is necessary to ensure they don't get themselves into trouble!

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Sweden Bred initially as a hunting dog, the Swedish Lapphund lived with the nomadic Sami people in Lapland, where they also herded reindeer and acted as companions and watchdogs. Archaeological remains of dogs of this medium-sized spitz type have been found dating back to 7000 years ago, making this type of dog very old indeed and possibly one of the oldest European breeds. Despite their history, the Swedish Lapphund has only been officially recognised as a breed since 1944, when the FCI adopted the first breed standard. Today the Swedish Lapphund is typically a companion dog and show dog.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

The Sweddish Lapphund needs to have a balanced dog diet including all the main nutrient groups and a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape, and remember to feed them at least twice daily in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food.

Exercise

The Swedish Lapphund is a dog who will need an hour a day of dog physical exercise, ideally more. They will also need time dedicated to training and puzzle solving to keep their clever minds active and fulfilled. A bored, under-exercised Lapphund will not be a pleasant or quiet companion. Thriving in cold weather and not put off by a bit of rain, the Lapphund does need exercise even in the worst weather. In the summer heat, exercise early in the morning and later at night to avoid your dog experiencing heat-stroke.

Other Information

Health and common concerns

 

The Swedish Lapphund is generally a healthy breed, but as with many breeds, hereditary eye disorders and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems) can arise. Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore recommended.

 

Space requirements

 

The Swedish Lapphund does not require a huge home, however with their vocal nature and agile physical skills, a rural or rural suburbs home would be best. In the busier suburbs or city and more densely packed housing, the Lapphunds vocal nature may prove problematic. With their dense coats, this is a dog that doesn’t enjoy central heating or overly warm homes.

 

Training swedish lapphund dogs

 

This is an independent minded dog with a quick brain so you’ll need to be on top of your canine training game to get the best out of the Swedish Lapphund! Using positive reinforcement, food and toys to motivate, it is possible to train the Lapphund to a high level and they will enjoy activities such as mantrailing, Rally, and scent-work-based games. Pay attention to early dog socialisation and training a solid and reliable recall, as this is a breed who will want to chase and hunt.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

Better suited to the outdoor family who enjoy a lot of walking and training. Possibly not suited to families with very small children as their hunting and herding nature may not be suited to busy family life. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did you know?

 

The Swedish Lapphund is a very versatile dog, originally bred to hunt reindeer, when the Sami peoples began herding the breed was easily retrained to herd instead of hunt. They were also used to hunt elk, foxes and birds, which all require different skills from the dog! They are the oldest of Sweden’s nine native breeds, and are the National Dog of Sweden.

 

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

A muscular, smooth-coated dog, the ever-popular Staffordshire Bull Terrier combines both 'bull' and 'terrier' in his physical appearance and gives the impression of strength and agility.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking one to two hours a day
  • Medium dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Lifespan:
12–14 years
Weight:
Adult males weigh 13–17kg and females 11–15.4kg
Height:
36–41cm
Colours:
Red, fawn, white, black or blue, brindle, or any of these with white
Size:
Small/Medium
Kennel Club group:
Terrier
Personality

A well-bred, well-socialised Staffordshire Bull Terrier should have an impeccable temperament and be especially good-natured (if not somewhat boisterous!) with people. With other dogs or animals, however, Staffordshire Bull Terriers can be less than friendly, though a great deal depends on his early socialisation and training. Some Staffordshire Terriers live perfectly happily with other dogs and cats; others cannot be walked off-lead in areas where they might meet another dog. Early and ongoing socialisation is essential.

 

History and Origins

The origins of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier can be traced back to the 1800s when bull and bear baiting was outlawed. A new 'sport' was devised – dog fighting – and so Bulldogs and Terriers were bred together to produce the Bull and Terrier, from which the Staffordshire Bull Terrier descends. Popular with all classes, including the Victorian working class, the 'Stafford' was often raised in small, cramped conditions with large families – to which his traditionally good temperament with people of all ages can be attributed.

Nutrition and Feeding

The diet for a Staffordshire Bull Terrier needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape, and remember to feed him at least twice daily in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

Exercise

At least an hour of exercise is needed daily for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, along with plenty of play and games. Given the chance, Staffordshire Bull Terriers can excel in dog sports such as agility. Many are fine with other dogs, but some are dog-aggressive. If your dog is less friendly, do ensure he is suitably restrained and does not make a nuisance of himself.

Ideal Owner

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier will suit an owner or a family who want a full-on, enthusiastic, friendly dog that may well not have an off-switch! This is a dog who needs to be involved in everything and is always up for a game. But be aware they may not get on with other dogs, so owners will have to be prepared to socialise them and keep them on lead most of the time. Living with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier - an owner’s perspective “They are funny, intelligent and easy to train. They absolutely adore their human families and love a game with children. They are also adaptable and are just as happy to spend the whole day cuddled on the sofa as they are to go on a 10-mile hike. They do like a job to do though and if not given one, they will find one! Chewing is top of their list so you need to make sure they have lots of appropriate things to chew. They are also stubborn, strong and do not always enjoy the company of other dogs. If you want a dog to take to the park and mingle with others, they are probably not the breed for you.”

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier dog breed is generally a very hardy breed, with few breed specific related problems. As with many breeds, they can suffer some hereditary eye disorders and so eye testing is recommended.

 

Space requirements

 

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier can live in virtually every home. But they do need plenty of daily exercise, so make sure they have access to good walking areas that aren’t too busy with other dogs.

 

Training staffordshire bull terriers

 

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are a clever active breed and they can make fabulous students, learning everything from obedience exercises, to tricks to dog sports like agility. They excel at interactive toys and love playing games with their owners. While they may not enjoy training classes because of the proximity of other dogs, if you find a trainer who understands this surprisingly sensitive breed, you will be amazing at just how much these dogs love training. They must be taught to walk on a lead and hardness, and early and ongoing socialisation is important. This socialisation should focus on teaching them to pay attention to their owner in the presence of other dogs - not to go and play with them.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are one of the only breeds of dog whose breed standard says ‘good with children’. Most seem to have endless patience with children and enjoy being involved in their games. They may be too boisterous for smaller children however who can easily get bowled over by a bit too much Stafford enthusiasm! While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did you know?

 

  • Developed originally by James Hinks of Birmingham, this breed was appearing at dog shows as early as 1862. But it wasn’t until the 1930s when it was recognised as being a separate breed from the Bull Terrier and had a name change to distinguish the two, adding the county name where it had become so popular.
  • One of the most popular events in the main ring at Crufts over the past few years has been the East Anglia Staffordshire Bull Terrier Display Team, who show their dogs doing everything from competitive agility, to tricks to working with children.

 

St. Bernard

The St. Bernard is a true giant of the dog world, and everybody recognises this legendary life-saving dog with his massive jowled head, gentle eyes, and short thick orange and white coat. These are muscular dogs with powerful, imposing heads, and are capable of covering very rough ground with unhurried, smooth movements.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Extra training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Giant dog
  • Heavy drool
  • Requires grooming daily
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks, alerts and it's physically protective
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Lifespan:
8–10 years
Weight:
68–91kg
Height:
70–90cm
Colours:
Orange, mahogany-brindle, red-brindle or white with patches of these colours
Size:
Large
Kennel Club group:
Working
Personality

A 'gentle giant' sums up the character of the St. Bernard. They are good-humoured, trustworthy and love family life. They are very loyal dogs who rarely bark, but will defend you and your possessions if they deem necessary. They normally accept other household animals with no problems. Young dogs must be taught from an early age not to pull on their leads, as this habit will be problematic when they are older and enormous!

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Switzerland

 

The St. Bernard breed was developed in the 18th century by monks at a hospice offering aid and shelter to travellers in the Swiss Alps. It was recorded in 1774 that these dogs were being used as rescue dogs to locate travellers in need of help. Their fame grew and for a while they were called Good Samaritan Dogs. It’s thought that over 2000 travellers have been saved by St. Bernards.It isn’t just mountain rescue that St. Bernards excel at. One St. Bernard called Bamse, a ship’s dog of a Norwegian minesweeper in World War II, won a PDSA award for courage in action. He was stationed in Montrose, Scotland, and one of his duties was to collect his shipmates from the pubs at closing time! He became so well known in the town that upon his death in 1944, local schools closed to allow hundreds of children to attend his funeral. Today his grave is still honoured in Montrose.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Giant-breed dogs, as well as having giant appetites, benefit from a different balance of minerals and vitamins, supporting different joint and cartilage needs. St. Bernard’s are prone to bloating and stomach problems; try feeding smaller, more frequent meals to help minimise the risk.

Exercise

Exercising St. Bernard puppies must be done very gradually to avoid putting excess strain on their growing bones and tender tissues and, even with the adult dog, care must taken to build up exercise gradually. Having said that, for their size they really do not need copious amounts of exercise – about an hour daily for an adult. They do however enjoy having their own large garden to be able to gently wander at leisure.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The most serious health problems commonly seen in the St. Bernard are various bone disorders, including bone cancer, epilepsy and heart disease. As with many breeds, they can also suffer from hereditary eye disorders and hip and elbow dysplasia (joint conditions that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important.

 

Space requirements

 

This is a dog who needs a large house and garden.

 

Training st. bernard’s

 

The St. Bernard is not one of the world's obedience champions but they can be taught basic good manners. They should be taught to walk on a harness and lead from being quite young as when fully grown, they can be a real problem just by merit of their size and weight. Also teach a reliable recall as some people and other dogs might be intimidated by the approach of such a large dog.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

St. Bernard’s make excellent family dogs for older children but are just too big for younger ones. They are devoted to their families and make great companions - as long as no one minds being drooled on. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did you know?

 

  • Monks attempted to cross the St. Bernard with the Newfoundland to create a thicker, warmer coat. However, this backfired as they found the longer fur captured matted snow and ice and weighed them down. You can still see the effects of this breeding in the longer haired variety of the St. Bernard.
  • It can take up to three years for them to finish growing.
  • In the film, Beethoven’s 2nd, over 100 puppies were used due to the fact that they grew so fast the production couldn’t keep up with them!
  • Although history paints them with a barrel around their neck (supposedly filled with brandy), this is a myth and they never carried one at all.
  • The most successful Saint Bernard rescue dog was called Barry and, in his lifetime, he rescued over 40 people from the Alps. His preserved body is now on display in the Natural History Museum of Bern.

 

Spanish Water Dog

A robust, medium-sized dog, the Spanish Water Dog has a curly, woolly coat that can be corded when long, or kept clipped short. They are strong and muscular and as their name suggests, love getting wet and are well suited to swimming and retrieving from water.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys vigorous walks
  • Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
  • Medium dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Lifespan:
10 – 14 years
Weight:
Adult males weigh around 18-22kg and females 14-18kg
Height:
Adult males are 44-50cm tall and females 40-46cm tall
Colours:
Solid black, white or brown, or black and white or brown and white
Size:
Medium
UK Kennel Club Groups:
Gundog
Personality

The Spanish Water Dog is bright, intelligent, friendly and even-tempered, and they love to work. With gainful employment via training, and a variety of dog sports or activities, the SWD is an excellent, active and fun companion dog. Although they may bond to one person in the family more than others, this is a gregarious dog who likes his family group to stay together, probably as a result of his herding ancestry!

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Spain

 

If the woolly coat of the Spanish Water Dog puts you in mind of the poodle, you can be forgiven for your error, as both Poodles and Spanish Water Dogs likely have a shared ancestor - the Barbet. Known to exist in Europe for several thousands of years, water dogs with woolly coats have served a variety of purposes, including hauling in fishing nets, retrieving items lost overboard, and also herding sheep and goats.Today this rare breed is mostly seen in the show-ring but retains an all-rounder attitude to a variety of jobs and is a bright, intelligent dog who can make a fun companion if their grooming needs are not an issue.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

The Spanish Water Dog needs to have a balanced diet including all the main nutrient groups and a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular?body condition?scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape, and remember to feed him at least twice daily in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

Exercise

At least an hour of dog exercise per day will be required – but this is a dog who needs plenty of mental exercise too. As a versatile dog with a history of retrieving, swimming, herding and even watch-dog work, the Spanish Water Dog will enjoy a variety of activities and excel in a home that enjoys training and working with their dog. Water remains the SWD’s favourite however, so be prepared for a wet dog with a coat that collects all manner of ‘additions’ along the way!

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

As with many breeds, the Spanish Water Dog can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important.

 

Space requirements

 

As a medium-sized and compact dog, the Spanish Water Dog does not need a large home, but one set up to cope with a wet dog who may spread water and mud would be ideal. Happier in the countryside than in a city, the Spanish Water Dog will need access to a variety of interesting rural walks and a secure garden at home, with space to practice training and games.

 

Training spanish water dog

 

The Spanish Water Dog will actively enjoy dog training as long as positive reinforcement is used and their natural desires taken into account. Not a dog to be left idle or bored and they’re easily capable of doing well in almost any recognised canine sport. They will suit an owner with a passion for training and dog activities.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

For families with the time to train and work with their Spanish Water Dog, they are an excellent companion, however this is a dog who gets bored easily and so may be better with older children who can join in the training and activities. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did you know?

 

Although the Spanish Water Dog has existed as a type of working dog in rural Spain for some time, as breed they have only been internationally recognised very recently. Efforts to establish them as a pedigree breed began in the 1970s, and the Spanish Kennel Club accepted them in the mid-1980s. There is also some confusion as to which breed group the Spanish Water Dog belongs in, with the UK Kennel Club classifying them as Gundogs, but the American Kennel Club placing them in the Herding group.

 

Welsh Springer Spaniel

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized gundog, built for endurance and hard work in all weathers. Shorter in the leg than some spaniel types, the Welsh Springer is a little more compact and moderate, with shorter ears and less feathering to ears, legs, body and tail. The coat is silky, flat and glossy, with rich red markings against a white background.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Extra training required
  • Enjoys vigorous walks
  • Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
  • Medium dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Lifespan:
12 – 15 years
Weight:
16 – 20kg
Height:
46 – 48cm
Colours:
Deep, rich red and white. White areas can be flecked with red ticking
Size:
Medium
UK Kennel Club Groups:
Gundog
Personality

With the appealing soft-eyed faithfulness of all spaniels, the Welsh Springer is a friendly and merry breed. A good-natured companion and hardworking partner, they are devoted to their owners but can be a little reserved with strangers.  Easy to train with a positive reinforcement-based approach, the Welsh Springer thrives on plenty of exercise and engaging work in the form of traditional gundog work, or other scent-based sports and competitions. A definite workaholic! 

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin:  Wales

 

The Welsh Springer may be the oldest surviving breed of Spaniel, with mentions of ‘Welsh Spaniels’ and references to red and white spaniels dating back as far as the 10th Century. It must be understood however that there were many localized types of land spaniel and working ‘bird dogs’ originating from similar dogs brought from western Europe and across the UK. The various spaniel breeds were not recognised and separated from one another until the mid to late 1800’s onwards and so there is very much a ‘shared ancestry’ within the spaniel breeds.The Welsh Springer Spaniels versatile working ability and strong hunting instincts made them popular world-wide however and by the 19th century they were regularly exported abroad and became known around the world as both working dogs and show dogs.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape, and remember to feed him at least twice daily in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

Exercise

Two hours or more per day, in the form of walking, running, following scent and retrieving toys or game. Welshies often love swimming and retrieve well from water. This is a busy, active dog and though they can relax and be calm at home, this is unlikely without sufficient and varied exercise, both mental and physical.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The Welsh Springer Spaniel can suffer from hereditary eye diseases and so screening is advised. Hip testing is also recommended as hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems) can also occur. The breed club monitor the health of the breed carefully and should be contacted for the most up-to-date information and details of any DNA or additional testing they recommend. Breed Clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website.

 

Space requirements

 

The Welsh Springer is not hard to house in terms of space but a secure garden is a must and access to long countryside walks with a variety of routes is important. Their long coat and ears can pick up debris and carry a lot of water so space to dry and groom a Welshie is useful. Better suited to country and rural suburbs than inner city, as this is a busy dog who likes a lot of outdoor space and may well find the constant sounds of traffic and city noise stressful.

 

Training spaniel (welsh springer)

 

The Welsh Springer adores their family and will be easy to train with the right motivation. Expect an eager and active dog who wants to be with their person, doing something fun most of the time, whether that’s walking, running, or taking part in canine sports. Positive reinforcement-based training will get the best out of this bright, clever dog and they actively enjoy learning new tasks. Like all Spaniels, Welsh Springer’s love to carry items in their mouths and this breed trait must be understood and training given from an early age to retrieve to hand and swap found items for acceptable substitutes or treats. Resource guarding can be an issue if this is not understood or if the dog is punished for collecting and carrying objects.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

Due to their desire to locate and carry around found objects, the Welsh Springer is better with older children who understand not to chase or chastise the dog and can keep belongings tidy. A well-trained Welsh Springer makes a good family pet for outdoor active families, as long as their training and exercise needs can be met. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did you know?

 

The Welsh Springer Spaniel has been known by many names, including Welsh Spaniel, Red and White Spaniel, Welsh Cocker and the welsh word ‘Tarfgi’ which means ‘dispersing dog’ referring to their job of flushing game toward waiting guns. They have webbed feet which makes them excellent swimmers. Welsh Springer Spaniel’s are the oldest recognised Spaniel breed of dog. Dog’s which look like Welsh Springer’s appear in images around the Renaissance period in the 16th century. They’re often referred to as ‘Velcro’ dogs and will follow their people around the house. 

 

Sussex Spaniel

Heavily built and sturdy on rather short strong legs, the Sussex Spaniel has a short, abundant coat in a rich golden liver, shading to gold at the hair tips. Their broad head and somewhat serious, quizzical expression make them an attractive companion.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys vigorous walks
  • Enjoys walking one to two hours a day
  • Medium dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Lifespan:
12 – 15 years
Weight:
23kg
Height:
38-41cm
Colours:
Rich golden liver
Size:
Medium
UK Kennel Club Groups:
Gundog
Personality

These happy and adaptable dogs can be very laid back, though it is important that they are introduced regularly to children, dogs, cars etc. until mature. They love hunting and are sometimes more interested in this than anything else when outside, so training when they are young is essential. Time invested in this dog is well worth the effort and the result is a happy and loyal companion.

 

History and Origins

The Sussex Spaniel dog breed was around in the early 1800s as part of a melange of land spaniels. The main interest in the breed began with Mr Fuller, a Sussex landowner, who kept several spaniel breeds, including Sussex Spaniels. He bred them for working and owned the breed for 50 years until the 1850s. By the time of the Second World War, there were few Sussex being bred from and it is thought that after the war only 5 Sussex Spaniels remained. Fortunately the breed has had dedicated followers that have kept the breed alive, though it is still numerically small.

Nutrition and Feeding

The Sussex Spaniel needs to have a balanced diet including all the main nutrient groups and a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular?body condition?scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape, and remember to feed him at least twice daily in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food. There have been cases of bloat in this breed. Smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk.

Exercise

When young the Sussex Spaniel should be exercised carefully and not allowed to damage their growing joints. Youngsters and adults should receive plenty of mental stimulation in the form of games, training and scent work. Adults will need around 2 hours or more of daily dog exercise across a variety of routes and terrains, including swimming, to keep them mentally and physically happy.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The Sussex Spaniel is generally a relatively hardy breed, as with many breeds however, they can suffer from hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems) and spinal disc disease. They are also prone to ear infections.

 

Space requirements

 

The Sussex Spaniel is a big dog on short legs, so they do need some space and won’t cope well with steep flights of stairs or confined urban living. Plenty of outdoor space in a secure garden, and a home that can accommodate a large, muddy wet spaniel without fear for the furniture or décor is a must. Access to interesting and varied walking routes - and novel and interesting scents to follow - is essential to stave off boredom for both dog and owner.

 

Training sussex spaniels

 

As you might imagine, the Sussex is a slower moving spaniel than many and this means they are steadier and less energetic. However, the Sussex is still a spaniel and they have a busy, active brain which must be kept entertained and well trained. Positive dog training methods using food, toys and the opportunity to perform enjoyable tasks such as scent work will keep a Sussex happy and pleasant to live with. Pay attention to training a good recall and teaching a solid retrieve and ‘drop’ early on, as many spaniels easily get themselves into trouble over carrying objects around and ‘stealing’ found items to fulfil that need to hold and carry.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

For the active outdoor family, the Sussex Spaniel can be a great companion, keeping in mind the spaniel traits of collecting, carrying and holding found items. They may be better with older children who can follow rules not to leave precious treasures lying around. With those who enjoy a good long romp in the countryside at a steady pace, the Sussex will be a fine friend. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did you know?

 

Although one of the first breeds to be registered when the UK Kennel Club was formed in 1875, the Sussex Spaniel has always been rare and is now so rare there are more giant pandas (1864) than there were Sussex Spaniel puppies registered in 2018 (34).

 

Irish Water Spaniel

The tallest and possibly the most striking looking of all the spaniels, the Irish Water Spaniel has an unusual luxuriant curly coat that comes in a rich dark liver shade with almost a hint of purple to it. A smart, compact dog, they are strong, tall and athletic.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys vigorous walks
  • Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
  • Medium dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Lifespan:
10-12 years
Weight:
20-30kg
Height:
53-58cm for males and 51-56cm for females
Colours:
Dark liver shade with hints of purple
Size:
Medium
UK Kennel Club Groups:
Gundog
Personality

The Irish Water Spaniel is really a versatile gundog able to retrieve flush and hunt. Excellent at work whether the job is traditional gundog work or field trial competition, they are also a fun and affectionate pet at home. Aloof and standoffish with strangers, they are even-tempered and confident once mature and make friends with relative ease. As puppies they can be sensitive and slow to mature, and so care must be taken not to overwhelm them.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: Ireland Although they carry the word spaniel in their name, the origins of the Irish Water Spaniel include retrieving dogs such as the Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog and Barbet, and their function was retrieving from water, flushing and hunting. Their original name was the Irish Water Dog and the first documented example of the breed was a dog called Boatswain who belonged to a Dubliner, Justin Mc

 

Carthy. All modern Irish Water Spaniels decent from this dog, born in 1834!

 

Nutrition and Feeding

The Irish Water Spaniel needs to have a balanced diet including all the main nutrient groups and a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular?body condition?scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape, and remember to feed your pet at least twice daily in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food.

Exercise

The Irish Water Spaniel is a dog who needs two or more hours of dog exercise, out and about, exploring the countryside and covering distance in whatever the weather happens to be doing (as the breed has a water-proof, weather-proof coat). Countryside walking and taking in the delights of whatever pond, stream or river they happen across, the Irish Water Spaniel is energetic and knows how to have fun – and so needs an owner with exactly the same attitude to life and leisure time!

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

As with many breeds, the Irish Water Spaniel can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. Check with the Kennel Club and breed club for up-to-date health information.

 

Space requirements

 

The Irish Water Spaniel requires a home with a decent-sized garden and secure fencing. They do not cope well with busy, frantic or noisy environments so a rural or quiet suburban home are best. Access to a wide variety of rural walking is vital to keep this clever, energetic breed happy.

 

Training irish water spaniels

 

The Irish Water Spaniel is a sensitive yet clever breed. They take to dog training well as long as it is done with kindness, patience and plenty of reward. Do not over-face the young Irish Water Spaniel with too much work or difficult tasks, but work to build a strong bond of trust and co-operation first and you’ll be rewarded for your patience later with a rock-solid companion who can take part in a variety of activities, from walks that end in the pub to high levels of competition.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

The Irish Water Spaniel is Ideal for the active family who enjoy long walks, outdoor activity and training. Better with older, quieter children and teenagers who want to get involved in some sort of dog sport or activity. A little too sensitive for very young families with small children or very busy, noisy households. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did you know?

 

  • The actor Geena Davis owns an Irish Water Spaniel, and it is via her dog that she met her husband. He got in touch with her to let her know her dog had bitten him when he visited a mutual friend’s home where the dog was staying at the time. The dog was obviously forgiven though as not long after they got married!
  • Geena Davis has another Irish Water Spaniel connection, in the film The Long Kiss Goodnight, starring Geena and Samuel L. Jackson, an unnamed Irish Water Spaniel has a 30 second cameo!

 

Field Spaniel

The Field Spaniel is a medium-sized dog, slightly longer than they are tall and with a gentle, noble expression. The coat is medium/long, glossy and thick with ample feathering on the chest, stomach and back of the legs.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys vigorous walks
  • Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
  • Medium dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Lifespan:
10 – 12 years
Weight:
18 – 25kg
Height:
46cm
Colours:
Rich liver, black or roan, with or without tan markings
Size:
Medium
UK Kennel Club Groups:
Gundog
Personality

The Field Spaniel is an active dog. Whilst calmer and less ‘busy’ than the Cocker, the Field Spaniel is still a spaniel, with the brains and desire to work that is common across all the spaniel types. Ideally suited to an outdoor, country life, the Field Spaniel is an excellent mix of sweet temperament and working ability, in the right home.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: England Developed approximately 150 years ago from a mixture of Cocker and Sussex Spaniels, and possibly others, the breed fell out of favour during both World Wars. In the 1960’s breed enthusiasts revived the Field Spaniel by introducing Cocker and Springer Spaniel blood. Considered to be sweet, affectionate and mild, the Field Spaniel remains a rare breed with many people favouring the more active and flashily marked Cocker Spaniel or the larger Springers.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

The Field Spaniel needs to have a balanced diet including all the main nutrient groups and a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular?body condition?scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape, and remember to feed your pet at least twice daily in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food.

Exercise

Two or more hours of dog exercise per day ideally via a variety of activities that engage this clever dog’s mind, as well as their body. Versatile and intelligent, the Field Spaniel will do well in a range of dog sports and competitions, as long as they are with their family and kept well entertained.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

The Field Spaniel is generally a hardy breed. As with many breeds, they can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip and elbow dysplasia (joint conditions that can be painful and lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important.

 

Space requirements

 

The Field Spaniel does not require lavish housing, but will want to spend time with their family, and will require a securely fenced garden and access to interesting and varied country walks. Country or rural suburbs will suit the Field Spaniel best as they are likely to find the busy, noisy city environments overstimulating and stressful.

 

Training field spaniels

 

The Field Spaniel will enjoy a wide range of activities, as long as they are working with their owner or family, they’ll have fun. Field Spaniels find carrying and holding objects in their mouths inherently reinforcing, so early and consistent training in retrieving to hand, and being willing to swap items for toys and treats is vital to ensure misunderstandings do not occur. This is a busy dog who likes to follow scent and explore the open countryside so a strong recall and good training to ignore livestock is a must. Easily motivated to work for toys or treats, the Field Spaniel is fun to train and work with.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

The Field Spaniel is an excellent family dog for those with children old enough to understand how to behave around dogs and ideally help with training and enjoy long country walks or dog sports. As spaniels enjoy picking up and carrying objects it is important to teach the dog to retrieve and swap and to teach children not to take items from the dog or chase the dog to get items back as this can lead to behavioural problems. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did you know?

 

The Field Spaniel is one of Britain’s Vulnerable Breeds, with the highest number of puppy registrations in the last five years being only 80! The Vulnerable Breeds list was created to highlight breeds at risk of disappearing and it is a shame the Field Spaniel is not more popular, as being calmer, they are often far better suited to family life than the more popular Cockers, Working Cockers or Springers.

 

English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a compact, medium-sized active dog with long ears set close to the head. They have a kindly yet alert expression, and a straight, medium length coat, feathered around the ears, legs and tail.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Extra training required
  • Enjoys vigorous walks
  • Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
  • Medium dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Lifespan:
12 – 14 years
Weight:
23 – 25kg
Height:
46 – 56cm
Colours:
Black and white, liver and white or either of these with tan markings
Size:
Medium
UK Kennel Club Groups:
Gundog
Personality

Naturally a busy, extroverted type, the Springer Spaniel is friendly, quick to learn and eager to please. Show varieties can be less active and appear calmer than working types, however all retain the desire to find items and carry objects in their mouths.  If their needs are understood and met, they make great companion dogs for the active outdoor family.

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: England

 

The Springer Spaniel name comes from their action in the field, ‘springing’ game out of cover toward waiting guns, however the English Springer Spaniel also has a long history of retrieving shot game, making this an ever popular working breed, able to turn a paw to multiple tasks and with the required stamina and athleticism to see them through a long working day. Originally derived from similar breeds in Spain, the English Springer Spaniel remains closest to the ‘Land Spaniel’ prototype which eventually became refined and split into the other popular British Spaniel breeds.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular?body condition?scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape, and remember to feed them at least twice daily in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food.

Exercise

This is an energetic, outdoor dog, with plenty of stamina for either work or play. Several hours exercise per day is required although some of this should take the form of mental stimulation via scent games and retrieve work to help exercise this working dog’s busy mind and body. They will enjoy being involved in family activities, and should be taught to settle quietly from a young age, avoiding the temptation to try to exhaust them – a task that will never be fulfilled!

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

English Springer Spaniels are generally a hardy breed. However, as with many breeds, they can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip and elbow dysplasia (joint conditions that can be painful and lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. A particular type of anaemia is also seen more frequently in the breed. The breed club monitor the health of the breed carefully and should be contacted for the most up-to-date information and details of any DNA or additional testing they recommend. Breed Clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website.

 

Space requirements

 

English Springer Spaniels are economical dogs when it comes to housing and transportation and don’t need a large indoor space, but are happiest when wet and muddy in the middle of the countryside. As such, these are rural dogs that will need long energetic walks with plenty of opportunities to run, sniff and explore.

 

Training english springer spaniels

 

This is a breed who will actively enjoy training, whether in traditional gundog activities or any of the wide variety of dog sports and activities now available. They lend themselves well to scent work of any kind, and would enjoy tracking, man-trailing or scent discrimination. Springers are still very much working dogs at heart and so need a ‘job’ to do – whatever that is – as a bored Springer Spaniel is difficult to live with. Responding best to positive, reward-based training, English Springers should be taught early on to retrieve and swap found objects happily, and to recall reliably as their busy noses can lead them anywhere.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

The Springer Spaniel is a friendly affectionate dog who is great for an active outdoorsy family, who aren’t afraid of mud and rain and love long country rambles. For less active families however they may be too demanding in their exercise requirements and while they would be happy to curl up in the pub after a long walk, they are certainly not a couch potato on a daily basis. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did you know?

 

  • Springer and Cocker Spaniels used to be the same breed, occurring in the same litters, with the larger puppies being the Springers and the smaller being the Cockers. They were split into separately recognised breeds in 1892 by the Kennel Club of Great Britain. Although originating from the ‘Land Spaniels’ Springer Spaniels are known for their love of water, and love a good swim or just a splash in a puddle or even their own water bowl.
  • Despite the name ‘Springer Spaniel’ only being given later on, there are painting with dogs that resemble the breed in the 16th century.
  • English Springer Spaniels have won the third most Best in Show awards at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show with an impressive 6 titles.
  • They’re a favourite with celebrities including George W. Bush, Princess Grace and Oprah Winfrey.

 

Cocker Spaniel (English)

English Cocker Spaniels are medium-sized, well-balanced dogs. Their coats are flat and silky with plenty of feathering on the front legs.

 

The need-to-know

 

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys vigorous walks
  • Enjoys walking more than two hours a day
  • Medium dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog
Lifespan:
12 – 15 years
Weight:
13 – 14.5kg
Height:
38 – 41cm
Colours:
Cocker Spaniels come in a multitude of different colours and combinations, including solid colours of black, red, orange and brown, combinations of black with white, liver with white, red and white, blue roan, orange roans, black roans, particolours and t
Size:
Medium
Kennel Club Group:
Gundog
Personality

The Cocker Spaniel is a busy, friendly dog who thrives on human companionship, wanting nothing more than to please its owners. They are ideal pets where there are children and they get on well with other household animals.


 

Cocker Spaniels are a very happy breed, constantly wagging their tails and always on the go. They are easily trained, being both clever and eager to learn.


 

 

History and Origins

Country of Origin: England

 

The English Cocker Spaniel is the most popular of the spaniel breeds and is one of the oldest of the land spaniels. Prior to the early 1800, the Cocker and the Springer Spaniel’s were categorised together and called simply the Land Spaniel but they developed to have different jobs depending on their size - the larger ones being used to ‘spring’ game and the smaller ones to flush out woodcock. The difference between the two became more pronounced thanks to selective breeding by their various devotees, and in 1893, they were finally recognised as two separate breeds - and this is how they got the names we know today - the Springer and the Cocker.The advantages of the Cocker were that as they were smaller and faster, they could easily push themselves into hedgerows and dense scrubland and so flush game that larger spaniels were unable to get to.

 

Nutrition and Feeding

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular?body condition?scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape, and remember to feed them at least twice daily in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food.

Exercise

The Cocker Spaniel is active, busy, energetic dog who loves exercise and needs between an hour to two hours every day although will happily take more - but will still enjoy games, training, interactive toys and being involved in all family activities at the rest of the time too.

Other Information

Health and common issues

 

One of the most common problems encountered in the English Cocker Spaniel is recurrent ear infections, due to their large ear flaps. As with many breeds, they can suffer from various hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. The breed club monitor the health of the breed carefully and should be contacted for the most up-to-date information and details of any DNA or additional testing they recommend. Breed Clubs can be found on the Kennel Club website.

 

Space requirements

 

While they are fairly small dogs, they really need a country home - or certainly a semi-rural environment so they can get the exercise they need.

 

Training cocker spaniels

 

This is an active dog who will need training if you want any hope of a quiet life! They are a joy to train however as they are intelligent and love working with their owner - but they will learn bad habits as quickly as good ones so reward-based training should start early and be ongoing. This is a great breed for dog sports such as agility or even pet gundog work - and they will love having an active job to do. They will enjoy scent work games too. It is important to train a Cocker Spaniel to enjoy handling and grooming (as they will need a lot of it) and to happily give up any prizes they may rather hold onto - always using positive, reward-based methods. Given they have a working gundog background, they should be well socialised with cats (who they can learn to live with happily) but watched with caution around other small animals and birds.

 

Best family dog breeds

 

Cocker Spaniels make great family dogs for active energetic families - but tend to need too much exercise and input for parents of younger children so may suit slightly older children better. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

 

Did you know?

 

  • There are two very different types of Cocker Spaniel - the English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel. Enthusiasts on both sides of the Atlantic argue about which one is the ‘real’ one!
  • Cocker Spaniel’s paw pads inspired the sole for the first ever boat shoes when Paul Sperry witnessed his dog running on ice without a problem.
  • Lady, from Lady and the Tramp was a Cocker Spaniel.
  • George Clooney has a Cocker Spaniel called Einstein.
  • They make terrible guard dogs as they’re much too friendly.