The English Springer Spaniel is a breed of gun dog in the Spaniel group traditionally used for flushing and retrieving game. They are descended from the Norfolk or Shropshire Spaniels of the mid-19th century; the breed has diverged into separate show and working lines. It is closely related to the Welsh Springer Spaniel and very closely to the English Cocker Spaniel; less than a century ago, springers and cockers would come from the same litter. The smaller "cockers" were used in woodcock hunting while their larger littermates were used to flush, or "spring", other game birds. In 1902, The Kennel Club recognized the English Springer Spaniel as a distinct breed. They are used as sniffer dogs on a widespread basis.
Originally developed in the United Kingdom, primarily for hunting in countryside and rural settings.
The English Springer Spaniel is an energetic and friendly breed known for its versatility in both field and companionship roles. They are highly valued as sniffer dogs due to their keen sense of smell and intelligence. Their lineage includes the Norfolk or Shropshire Spaniels, and they share a close genetic relationship with the Welsh Springer Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel. English Springer Spaniels have distinct working and show lines, with the working line being more agile and driven.
A show-bred English Springer Spaniel
Police officers with a sniffer dog at London Waterloo railway station
Trainability
Responsiveness to training: —/5