Common Health Issues in English Springer Spaniels

We all want the healthiest pup possible, but each breed is prone to certain health problems.

The most common issues in the English Springer Spaniel are ear disease, joint disease, inherited eye disease, skin allergies, and occasional seizure disorders.

The good news is that with early checks, smart grooming, and a simple health plan, you can prevent many of these problems and keep your dog thriving.

Key takeaways

• Long ears and a narrow ear canal mean many Springer Spaniels are prone to ear infections, especially after swimming or being in the rain for too long.

• Screening for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) helps you spot any inherited diseases early.

• Weight control, joint-friendly exercise, and timely veterinary checks can help to reduce arthritis and other joint problems.

• Choose a responsible breeder and plan routine ear care, coat care, and eye checks to cut potential health issues.

• A good pet insurance policy supports diagnostics and vet treatment, so you can act fast when your Springer Spaniel gets sick.

These are the most widely reported issues for the English Springer Spaniel breed. UK clinical guides note ear disease, elbow and hip disease, and eye conditions that can be inherited. Note that practical screening programmes are available for owners and breeders (PDSA, Dog Breed Health).

Ears

Recurrent ear infections are due to the heavy ear flap trapping moisture and debris in the ear canal. It is very common in English Springer Spaniels and other long-eared breeds.

Joints

Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia can progress to arthritis without early support.

Eyes

Progressive retinal atrophy (often shortened to PRA) can lead to night vision loss and eventual blindness.

Skin

Seasonal itchiness and skin problems, often allergy-linked, can flare around the ears, belly, and feet.

Neurology

Idiopathic epilepsy is seen in English Springer Spaniels and aligns with reports where seizures usually begin before middle age.

For a full breed overview, lifespan, exercise, and care starter, save the English Springer Spaniel breed guide. It adds helpful health information and temperament context for new owners.

Ear shape and water love

Long, pendulous ears reduce airflow and keep the canal warm and damp. That is perfect for yeast and bacteria. This is a core reason that ear infections are common in English Springer Spaniels.

Genetics and screening

Selective breeding can cluster inherited diseases. UK health schemes advise screening for hips, elbows, and eyes. The BVA/KC schemes and available DNA tests help owners and breeders reduce potential health risks across a population.

Busy bodies, big hearts

Springer Spaniels are intelligent, energetic, and often love agility. Without structured exercise and weight control, Springer Spaniels tend to strain joints, amplifying specific health issues.

For a lived-by-the-vet view on diagnostic days and practical tips, this behind-the-scenes piece is a nice window into real-world vet treatment scenarios. See our behind-the-scenes at the vets blog post to read more.

Use this quick table to act fast.

Note: English Springer Spaniels are particularly prone to certain issues, but each dog is different. You should always see your vet if you notice anything concerning in their behaviour.

Weekly grooming and ear routines

Regular English Springer Spaniel grooming is non-negotiable. Generally, the Springer Spaniel’s coat needs constant attention to keep it healthy and to remove burrs. Part their hair to check the skin beneath. Clean and dry ears after wet walks.

We might have said this several times already, but good ear care is the single biggest win to keep your Springer healthy.

Joint-friendly lifestyle

Keep your health plan simple. Daily walks on mixed surfaces. Controlled off-lead runs when safe to do so. Cross-train them with scent games and maintain a lean body condition to protect the hips and elbows. This is because Springer Spaniels can suffer joint flare-ups as they age.

Eye and DNA testing

Ask your breeder about eye exams and DNA panels. A genetic test is available for some retinal variants in spaniels. Use accredited schemes where possible.

Choose the right cover

Many health problems in purebred dogs need imaging and advanced care. If you like a breed-specific view of cover, explore our page on English Springer Spaniel pet insurance. For a broad primer on cover types, limits, and claims, read the ins and outs of pet insurance.

If you're thinking about English Springers vs Cockers, we have the guide for you. We discuss their size and any health concerns you might face as your puppy grows. This guide also helps you compare exercise needs, coat, and some medical differences. See this here: Cocker Spaniel vs Springer Spaniel.

Daily

• Two brisk walks plus short training. Keep sessions fun to keep your Springer engaged.

• Quick ear check after being around any rain or wet grass. Dry with cotton wool or other vet-recommended product. If advised, use ear cleaner , generally 1–2 times weekly.

Weekly

• 20 to 30 minutes of grooming and coat work. If needed, trim around the ear flap for airflow. Check skin folds and armpits for knots.

• Weigh-in at home. Adjust meals to hold a lean shape if they are gaining too much weight. This limits future joint problems and arthritis.

Monthly

• Nail trims, baths, and parasite prevention. This means checking nail length and any fleas or ticks when bathing and grooming.

Twice yearly

• Vet wellness checks for overall English Springer Spaniel health. Ask about hips, elbows, and eyes as part of their canine health review. Older pets and pets with any ongoing conditions should be checked more often.

Are Springers really prone to ear conditions?

Yes. UK veterinary guidance calls out their otitis externa risk because the ear canal is warm, humid, and covered by a heavy ear flap. Regular cleaning and drying lower recurrence, and many cases resolve with targeted drops and allergy control.

Which screening matters most?

For common English Springer Spaniel health issues, prioritise hip, elbow, and eye tests. UK resources such as the BVA/KC (British Veterinary Association and Kennel Clubs sometimes list available DNA tests that spotlight potential health issues before pups are bred.

Is the Springer Spaniel a generally healthy dog?

A Spaniel is a generally healthy dog when bred and raised well, but, as we have said several times, Springer Spaniels are susceptible to certain orthopaedic and ocular issues. Sensible breeding, routine veterinary care, and good home habits keep risk low.

The Springer Spaniel is a generally robust family dog. Most dogs live active, happy lives when you keep their ears dry, joints lean, and eyes checked.

They are eager learners with a gentle temperament. Springer Spaniels are known for loyalty and fun, so if your Springer Spaniel needs help, do not wait.

Early action gives any effective treatment more time to work so that you can spend more happy days with your best friend.