Are Springer Spaniels Good Family Dogs? Understanding Their Loving Nature

The quick answer is yes. When their exercise and grooming needs are met, the Springer Spaniel is a warm, affectionate family dog with a steady temperament and loyal heart.

They suit homes that enjoy an active lifestyle so you can spend lots of time together.

But do they get along with kids? Are they easy to train? How much activity do they need? What about grooming?

Let's find out...

Key takeaways:

• A friendly, sociable family companion that’s eager to please and very intelligent.

• They have a high daily need for exercise and mental stimulation to keep behaviour balanced.

• A silky coat needs weekly brushing and special care for the ears.

• Early, positive training prevents separation anxiety and channels natural exuberance.

• Choose a reputable breeder, do pre-purchase health checks, and ensure good welfare.

These dogs were originally bred for hunting, which gave them the famous mix of cheer, focus, and family-friendly warmth. As a Spaniel breed, they tend to be people-oriented and thrive on companionship.

A Spaniel at heart, an English Springer loves to be near you and often becomes a shadow around the home.

Typical traits include being outgoing, loyal, and keen to join every activity.

Their bright personality and eagerness make them easy to train, and many shine in agility and obedience.

With proper training from an early age, most Springers are gentle with children and can get along with a cat if introductions are slow and positive.

The key is to supervise, teach calm handling, and reward soft interactions.

Their natural “hunter” instincts mean some may want to chase a pet rabbit in the garden, an errant squirrel, or other pets so socialisation and recall training is essential.

A Springer’s energy level is high. Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours of varied activity most days to meet their physical and mental stimulation needs.

Off‑lead time in safe spaces, scent games, and retrieval play suit their “find and fetch” trait. Because they were bred for hunting, they love structured jobs.

• Training games and a new trick each week keep minds busy.

• Give puzzle feeders for dog food to add mental stimulation at mealtimes.

• Sports like agility and obedience suit these medium-sized dogs with bright brains.

• Young dogs especially benefit from regular short training bursts to build focus.
  

Springers wear a medium, often slightly silky coat that can collect mud on country walks and turn delightfully muddy in seconds. You can also expect fur tumbleweeds without steady upkeep.

But it's not all bad, as long as you have a good routine. Here's a quick list of coat and general care tips:

• Routine: weekly brushing to prevent mats, and quick tidy-ups after wet walks.

• Bath: Use a gentle shampoo when truly dirty to protect skin and coat.

• Ears: Floppy ears need special care. Dry after swims and check for redness or smell.

• Vet: Schedule regular health checks and plan ongoing vet care.

Financial peace of mind helps with an active breed. Learn what’s typically covered with English Springer Spaniel pet insurance.

Grooming note: They are not truly low maintenance. You’ll need to brush and groom regularly, especially if your Springer Spaniel swims or barrels through brambles.

Springers fit many houses but do best in homes that like movement and play.

• Indoors: They potter around the house, often curling up near your feet.

• Alone time: Without a plan, some develop separation anxiety. Short departures, enrichment, and a comfy crate can help.

• Training: Reward calm, persistent behaviour daily. Consistency matters.

Their exuberance is part of the charm. Channel it with jobs, training, and varied walks so it stays joyful, not hectic.

Springers are often compared to other breeds like the Cocker Spaniel and Retriever types. The Cocker can be slightly smaller with similar sensitivity. Many dog breeds are wonderful for newcomers, but is a Springer a good first-time dog?

• Springers are very intelligent and easy to train, yet their high energy and need for exercise can be a lot for busy schedules.

• If you want a calmer start, explore options in this guide to best dog breeds for first-time owners.

Within the wider family, the English Springer Spaniel is distinct from the Welsh Springer Spaniel in looks and history. Both are lively, people-focused gundogs. The English Springer is among the most popular breed in the UK, and a beloved companion for active homes.

If buying a puppy, support good welfare and strong genetics.

• Choose a reputable breeder who welcomes visits and shares health results.

• Ask about parents’ health checks and temperament.

• Confirm the register status with an official body.

• In the UK, The Kennel Club outlines standards for appearance and temperament in its Breed Standard, and gives practical health guidance in its Breeds A to Z profile.

• Always bear in mind your time, space, and budget for training, grooming, and vet care.

• Use retrieve games to satisfy their retriever-like instincts from an early age.

• Rotate chew toys and scatter feed to add mental stimulation to daily dog food routines.

• Teach a “settle” on a mat to help switch off after walks.

• Rinse legs after muddy fields to protect the coat and skin.

• Short training, frequent praise, and simple jobs at home keep that eagerness happy.
  

If you want a joyous teammate who learns fast and loves your routines, the English Springer Spaniel is a brilliant fit. If your home can offer structure, varied walks, and a brush kept by the door for the inevitable muddy adventures, you’ll have a devoted friend for years.

We love this breed for families who enjoy time outdoors and training together. With thoughtful daily habits, a Springer’s compatibility with busy family life is outstanding.