English Springer Spaniels are popular for their agility, hunting prowess, tracking, and obedience, making them terrific companions for trekking or camping. However, there are some drawbacks to owning an English Springer Spaniel.
Here are 8 reasons not to get an English Springer Spaniel:
- They require a lot of grooming.
- They are prone to ESS breed-related health conditions.
- They can be clingy.
- They have unpredictable temperaments.
- They won’t play with other dogs.
- They are hyperactive and require significant exercise.
- They’re prone to drooling.
- They aren’t good guard dogs.
This article explains why you should not get an English Springer Spaniel. If you are still considering owning this breed of dog, read this article first.
1. They Require a Lot of Grooming
English Springer Spaniels have a double coat consisting of an insulating undercoat and a protective topcoat. As a result, they shed excessively.
When it comes to wet seasons of the year, it’s especially crucial that you groom an English Springer Spaniel frequently.
It’s also worth noting that they have long floppy ears with feathery hair that can quickly become matted or tangled, making them susceptible to ear infections if they are not groomed regularly.
Additionally, you may have to brush their teeth 2-3 times a week. This is because English Springer Spaniels’ tongues are too short to clean their teeth properly.
2. They Are Prone to ESS Breed-Related Health Conditions
Owners are naturally upset when their dogs have medical issues that can be directly traced back to the breed. They frequently wish they’d known about the breed’s difficulties before investing their time and love into the dog.
The following are some of the health issues that English Springer Spaniels are prone to develop:
- Hip dysplasia – this is a condition in which the hip joint becomes slack due to inadequate development, eventually leading to arthritis.
- Elbow dysplasia – the dog’s elbow joints become slack due to poor development, eventually leading to arthritis.
- Progressive retinal atrophy – the dog’s retina of the eyes gradually deteriorates. Symptoms might range from night blindness to total blindness.
- Ear Infections – due to their long ears, Springer Spaniels are susceptible to ear infections. Otitis externa is caused by bacteria building up in the ears.
3. They Can Be Clingy
English Springer Spaniels are incredibly affectionate and form strong bonds with their families. With this in mind, they do not do well on their own.
While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it does mean that they can come across as needy or clinging, which may not be appropriate in some households.
You must objectively assess whether you can provide a Springer with the level of attention it requires. It’s especially important that you consider your lifestyle and how frequently you are away from home.
4. They Have Unpredictable Temperaments
English Springer Spaniels are bred as working dogs and are generally not recommended for the average pet owner.
They have an unpredictable temperament and can be great with children when raised with them from puppyhood, but can also be timid around strangers. They need a lot of exercise and regular mental stimulation. Otherwise, they may become destructive.
They are also known to have outbursts of ferocious hostility, frequently attacking their owners.
If you’re thinking about adopting an English Springer Spaniel, it’s essential to know their temperament and be prepared to handle their mood swings. These dogs need regular exercise and stimulation. They also require a lot of training for an owner to establish effective control over them.
5. They Won’t Play With Other Dogs
Some people think that English Springer Spaniels are the perfect dog because they’re so loving and friendly with children. However, one thing that makes them different from other breeds is that they don’t like to play with other dogs.
This trait can be seen as good or bad, depending on what you’re looking for in a pet. If you want a pet that gets excited about trips to the dog park, then an English Springer Spaniel might not be the best choice. If you’re more interested in a dog who will follow you around and love you unconditionally, then you might consider getting an English Springer Spaniel.
English Springer Spaniels get along well with other small mammals. However, because they were developed to startle and retrieve prey, this can be an issue if they aren’t introduced to them early and often.
6. They Are Hyperactive and Require Significant Exercise
English Springer Spaniels are high-energy dogs that require a lot of exercise. If you don’t have time to take your dog for a long walk, you may want to consider a different breed. English Springer Spaniels need between 1 and 2 hours of exercise daily, preferably more.
English Springer Spaniels are very active dogs and will become destructive if they don’t get enough exercise. Be sure to understand their high energy needs, or they will become bored and may cause problems around the house. They are also very active indoors, so be prepared to provide plenty of playtime and interesting toys.
7. They’re Prone to Drooling
When they come over to say hello, an English Springer Spaniel dog may drape a rope of slobber on your arm and create large, wet patches on your clothes. They also drool a lot while asleep.
If you don’t mind cleaning up drool, go ahead and get an English Springer Spaniel. On the other hand, if you prefer to stay as clean as possible, you might want to pick a dog that doesn’t drool as much.
8. They Aren’t Good Guard Dogs
If you’re looking for a subtle and protective guard dog, an English Springer Spaniel shouldn’t be your first choice.
English Springer Spaniels do not make suitable guard dogs due to their unpredictable temperament. They bark in response to noises and when strangers approach but quickly calm down. This barking can also be annoying at times.
English Springer Spaniels are not highly protective. Still, if they perceive a threat to themselves, their parents, or their home, they could become aggressive.
