English Springer Spaniels are wonderful pets to have. They have great personalities, love to spend time around people, and can succeed in a wide variety of ways. However, they do have some traits like separation anxiety that are not as favorable for many and may require extra attention.
English Springer Spaniels need a companion nearby most of the time because they can develop anxiety, fear, and panic. They are people-oriented and do best when around their owners or people they know and love rather than another dog. Isolation is highly discouraged for this type of pet.
Continue reading the remainder of this article on English Springer Spaniels to learn more about why this breed of dog can succeed with a companion. Additionally, I will also discuss the many traits of this breed.
Why Do English Springer Spaniels Do Well With a Companion?
The English Springer Spaniel is a terrific dog and companion for many. With a calm and playful personality, individuals everywhere are drawn to this breed of dog because they are excellent counterparts. However, many may not be aware that this dog does best with a companion by its side most of the time.
English Springer Spaniels do well with a companion because they were originally bred to be hunting and retrieving companions. Over time, this dog breed has evolved and is now a family-oriented breed, making them thrive best when around people.
As mentioned, this dog, originally, was bred to be a man’s companion while in the field. The English Springer Spaniel has an innate drive to be around its master at all times. If left alone, anxiety and other negative behaviors may arise.
A companion can help soften the negative behavior that arises when this dog is left alone. Additionally, a companion may act as a replacement for an English Springer Spaniel’s owner, which can help tremendously.
What Type of Companion Do English Springer Spaniels Work Best With?
English Springer Spaniels have interesting traits, and owners can often struggle with the certain dynamics that those traits create. The most common solution that many have discovered is a companion. But, the question still remains: what type of companion works best for this dog?
English Springer Spaniels work best with human companions, although they can perform well with most types of companions, whether it is a dog or a person. More importantly, owners should know that this breed of dog thrives when around people and should not be left alone for long periods.
If there is anything to remember about this breed, it is that this type of dog loves people. They are very affectionate and cannot be left alone away from people for long periods of time. Otherwise, they may begin to panic, chew, act wild, and mess up the house.
Pet companions are great for this breed, but other pets may not always help. Additionally, owners should avoid investing in a cat for their pup. Whether it is a pet sitter, an owner, or another individual, this dog just prefers to be around people that resemble a master.
Nonetheless, an animal companion can help this breed remain calm and relaxed for longer periods of time and can help English Springer Spaniels feel comforted when left alone for long periods.
It is recommended that if individuals invest in a pet companion, they choose to add another dog into the equation rather than a different type of animal like a cat. This dog breed does not do well with animals such as felines.
How Long Can an English Springer Spaniel Be in Isolation?
It appears that most breeds of dogs can be left alone for long periods of time, which is excellent for owners. They can do errands, go to work, and leave the house during the day. Owners that have English Springer Spaniels, however, are the exception.
English Springer Spaniels can be in isolation for two hours at most during the day. If properly trained, they can last for 4-6 hours per day. However, owners will have to train their dogs with positive reinforcement and create a system for this to occur.
As we now know, English Springer Spaniels are very attached to people. But, that is not the only reason why this breed cannot be left alone for long periods of time.
English Springer Spaniels are very sensitive animals and have to use the bathroom quite often. Holding their bladder for hours on end can be very challenging. It is best that this breed is placed in a confined area before leaving the house.
Anxiety, panic, and determination are very prevalent in this type of dog, and they may run around the house and even attempt to break out.
Sometimes, having another pet can help increase the amount of time this pet can be left alone. A companion can help the English Springer Spaniel feel safe and supported. The biggest concern with this breed is complete isolation without anyone nearby.
Individuals can train and test out different time frames with their pups to see what works and what doesn’t. There are also incredible tools that work well with this breed of dog:
- Create a daily routine. The English Springer Spaniel is a hunter dog and can hyperfocus on routine. If they know you are leaving during certain hours, they will create a sense of safety and routine. This can make it much easier for you to stay out for longer periods of time.
- Train them for a couple of weeks and months beforehand. Training is super helpful for this breed. They are loyal and great listeners, and they love to please their masters. If you need help with training, I highly recommend Brain Training For Dogs. At just $47, you get a structured and detailed training program from a professional trainer for just a fraction of the cost of a local trainer.
- Start with 1 hour of isolation and work your way up. Your dog may begin to gain a tolerance for being left alone if you try it day after day. Individuals can also prepare their dogs before entering the crate.
Final Thoughts
All in all, the English Springer Spaniel is an excellent dog. It is very loyal, playful, calm, and loving. This breed is highly recommended for families and those looking for a companion.
However, individuals should keep in mind the different traits of this breed, especially how they respond to extended periods of isolation. This can make a huge impact on day-to-day training and routine for everyone involved.