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| English Springer Spaniel |
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The English Springer Spaniel is a surprise in the world of Dogs. Glamorous and successful in the show ring (even when competing against the wonder of Cocker Spaniels and Setters) the ESS would seem a popular and well-regarded breed. Instead, its numbers in shelters and rescues bely some misunderstanding or expectation that people hold when taking home a delightful ESS pup. The excessive number of irresponsible breeders only complicate the problem, presenting the ESS as a dog that is suitable for all homes with minimal grooming. Indeed, an ESS is a great consideration for any responsible home that takes the time to rear and care for a special companion but they are not a good candidate for those homes who expect a puppy to be left alone 10 hours a day to rear itself. In fact, no puppy is. Regardless, for those who understand how to assist an ESS in its goal of being a well adjusted and charming companion, their efforts are richly rewarded. |
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| General Information |
| Group(s):
Sporting, Spaniel |
Height: 18-21 inches |
| Weight: 35-55 pounds |
Longevity: teens |
| Colors: black/white, liver/white, tri-color, liver or blue roan |
Coat type: short, soft, dense undercoat with long, flat, outercoat allowing for fringe on skirt, ears and legs |
| Recognized Registries: NCA, FCI, UKC, AKC and others |
| Overall Appearance: Medium, compact and nicely built, the slightly rectilinear ESS creates a very pleasing picture with its moderate musculature and sleek coat. Recognized by many from tapestries and art of the Middle Ages. |
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| Personaility - Behavior - Training |
| Energy Level: moderate to high |
| General Nature: |
intelligent, active, reactive, attentive |
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with Children: good ONLY if properly socialized and supervised |
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with other pets: generally good with the possible exception of birds due to their working history |
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with dogs: generally good |
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| Socialization requirements: moderately high, due to several factors including tendencies toward shyness and dominance, the ESS should be thoroughly socialized from early in life |
| Ideal home characteristics: One that recognizes the exceptional companion an ESS can become with appropriate support, training and guidance. Regular (but relatively minor) grooming needs and moderate exercise requirements do not preclude the ESS from a vast majority of homes. |
| Temperament Notes: Generally inclined toward some shyness, there are few breeds that benefit more from a good socialization schedule. The potential of the ESS is difficult to express because of their outstanding physical and mental abilities. Socializing makes it possible |
| Training requirement: moderate; socializing, basic manners and some activity generally help the ESS become an exceptional companion |
| Trainer notes: With a trusting and confident ESS as your training partner, there is little that could not be achieved! Easy to train, happy to participate the ESS shows incredible aptitude for many aspects of dog sport. The most critical component is the early socializing which allows the ESS to live with the experience and foundation to approach the world with assurance.
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| Background Information |
| Year range of first recognition: Spaniel-type dogs in art of the 1500s |
| Country of Origin: England |
| Original Function: flushing spaniel |
| History: Throughout the 19th century smaller and larger Spaniels would emerge from the same litter. The smaller were called Cockers and the larger, Springers. In 1902, Springer was settled upon and the breed became specific and popular fairly quickly everywhere. |
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| Adoption Information |
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| Deviations from Standard: oversize, incorrect head, inadequate coat, |
| Health Notes: hip dysplasia, eye problems, seizuring, temperament disorders, PFK deficiency, skin and ear problems |
| Health Testing: OFA, CERF, blood test for PFK, |
| Questions to ask Breeder: http://www.digitaldog.com/breeder_questions.html - The Breeder Questions as listed here provided with explanations and answers you will want to be looking for!
http://www.essfta.org/Spaniel%20Manual/spanmanl07.htm- Questions any GOOD ESS breeder would be pleased to answer
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| Web Sites: http://www.bobjanuary.com/essrhp.htm- English Springer Spaniel Rescue of NYC, NJ and Long Island
http://www.springerrescue.org/springers.html- National English Springer Rescue
http://www.essfta.org/essfta/rescue.htm- English Springer Spaniel Field Trial Association Rescue
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| Other Resources |
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