Is an English Springer Spaniel a good dog for a first time dog owner?

Question

I have never owned a dog before. I have a large yard but it is not fenced in. Do they shed constantly? I live in Michigan and am looking for a local breeder.

Answer 1

I had two springers growing up. They were the best dogs in the world!! You won't regret owning one. Having said that, they are definitely hyperactive and need a lot of training, patience, and companionship. You will probably have to fence in your yard. They do shed quite a bit too. They are the most loyal, sweet, loving dogs you can find...and very good with children. I would get another in a heartbeat. Good luck!!

Answer 2

Most English Springers are even-tempered, gentle, friendly, and sociable dogs that are great for kids. Intelligent, skillful, willing and obedient. Playful, energetic and a quick leaner. Merry, brave and sweet tail-waggers. Cheerful and courageous. It is affectionate, good natured and sincere, this dog loves everyone. Springers do best when they are with people as much as possible. They can get into trouble if left alone too long. They love water and may constantly get themselves wet and muddy. Usually they are good with other pets with the possible exception of birds. Sometimes argumentative with same sex dogs. This breed can be destructive and bark a lot if left alone. Springers need wise guidance through what is called their "teenage" time. Some are high-energy and they are all intelligent. They need a soft, but firm hand so they always know who is in control.
They will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. English Springer Spaniels adapt well to town or city life. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard.

Answer 3

I would reccomend checking out the Welsh Springer Spaniel. As someone has already mentioned the problem with 'Springer Rage Syndrome', this is a widespread problem in the English Springers - I would say half or more that came to the vets I worked for had this, and they were not all from the same bloodlines - scary. The Welsh Springer Spaniels, while similar, are a bit smaller & stockier, and seem to be somewhat mellower in general. They both shed an average amount, more in the spring & fall typically like most other breeds. Regular brushing helps keep the amount found on clothes & furniture down.

Another very mellow breed in the spaniel family you may want to consider as a first-time dog owner is the Clumber Spaniel. You can find info & breeders through www.akc.org - buy from breeders that belong to your closest local chapter of the breed's club, and that test & certify their breeding dogs free from known genetic defects. This is the best way to ensure a healthy, well-adjusted dog from the start.

Answer 4

I think they are awsome dogs. I think its possible you could train him/her to stay in the yard but it would take more than average amount of work. Visit the website below, it has more information on them.

"Temperament
The English springer spaniel is cheerful, playful and energetic, ready for a day in the field and an evening by the hearth. It does everything with gusto and can be overly enthusiastic unless given plenty of exercise. The typical springer is the ideal family companion.

Upkeep
As an energetic and inquisitive dog, the springer needs daily mental and physical exertion. Hunting is the first choice to satisfy both needs, but an outing in the field, long walk on leash and good obedience lesson can go far to making the springer a calm and well-behaved house dog. This breed does best if allowed to live in the house with access to a yard. Its coat needs brushing or combing one or two times weekly plus clipping and scissoring every three months. Springers from field, rather than show, lines tend to have less coat."
-Taken From animalplanet.com

Answer 5

Springers are great dogs - lots of energy, good size, and smart.

There is one drawback though, in that there has been increased incidence of "rage syndrome" (sort of like an epilectic level of aggression) in Springers - a problem for even the most experienced dog owners. If you're thinking about a Springer, make sure you get one through a reputable breeder and ask about rage in addition to the general hip and eye questions in your dog's lineage.

Answer 6

I would'nt reccomend one as a first time ownser. Yes they are adorable dogs but ver scatty and alot more training is needed for them compared to other dogs. In the past me and my familey have had quite a few dogs, labradors are very nice (++reccomended++), they dont like to be dirrty, where as we also had a bierded collie where they get very dirty due to the long hair they have and they have to be clipped very/very often. I wouldnt say dont get a springer b/ they are lovely dogs, my dad is a dog trainer and he knows loads of people that hav'nt been able to handle tem, a couple of years ago we had one and sadley we had to give him away, i didnt want to i really loved him-but no one could handle him not even my dad.

But if you still really want one then dont let no-one put you off the idea...

Good Luck

Answer 7

A dog should be trained on how to eat, walk with you, not to bark, potty training and sleep on its place etc. You can teach anything to your puppy, dogs get trained easily with some good instructions. If you want some good training tips visit https://tr.im/0U29A

If properly trained, they should also understand whistle and gesture equivalents for all the relevant commands, e.g. short whistle or finger raised sit, long whistle or flat hand lay down, and so on.

It's important that they also get gestures and whistles as voice may not be sufficient over long distances and under certain circumstances.

Answer 8

Not a good choice for a first-timer. This is a high maintenance breed that requires constant attention and firm obedience training. This breed will demand a MAJOR portion of your time and energy, and if they don't get it, they can become destructive out of boredom.

Answer 9

they are big, tough, bouncy dogs that need constant companionship, as tey were bred for working with their master all day and sleeping at his feet all night. They are tough as they are gundogs and they will need continual training and fun to occupy their minds. Be prepared to walk miles and join obedience classes, - and give up full time work! You will need to secure the yard - and you'll be surprised how high he can jump!