Spaniels are a popular choice when it comes to a family dog. As these dogs come in all shapes and sizes and are intelligent, good-natured, and affectionate, it’s not surprising. With over twenty types of Spaniel to choose from. How do you pick the right Spaniel for you and your family?
Well, we’ve got the low-down on each of them. Some spaniel breeds like the Springer Spaniel and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are well-known. While others like the Sussex or Clumber Spaniel are less familiar.
Despite the extensive choice, all Spaniels come from working stock. Let’s have a brief look at the Spaniel history before we dive into each distinct breed.
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Spaniel Breed history
Spaniels gained their name from the Latin word Hispaniolus, meaning ‘Spanish.’ The popular theory is that the modern Spaniel descends from hunting dogs brought to Britain by the Celts as early as 900 BC.
Spaniels were valued for their versatility to hunt different games and work within the diverse terrain. Whether it was game birds, waterfowl, or rabbits, the Spaniel was relied upon to retrieve the game no matter where it fell, woodlands, rivers, or open land.
Their ability to flush out prey from the surrounding countryside, retrieve with a soft mouth, and unerring capacity to recover fallen game using their powerful sense of smell, made Spaniels invaluable as a hunting partner.
As hunting evolved, so did the Spaniels. During the seventeenth century, Spaniels were bred for distinct hunting groups; water and land with different characteristics valued in each. Not only that, but as guns became the weapon of choice for hunting, dogs were expected to be steady and tolerant of a gunshot.
So, can a gundog with a strong instinct to hunt be a good family pet?
Spaniels as pets
Despite their background as working dogs, Spaniels make excellent family dogs given the right environment. While most Spaniels require above-average exercise, there’s such diversity in types of Spaniel that there’s bound to be one that will fit in with your lifestyle.
Affectionate, loyal, and enthusiastic, the Spaniel breed has a well-deserved reputation as an adaptable, somewhat bouncy breed. With that in mind, here’s our rundown of the different Spaniel types and their highlights;
Types of Spaniel
- American Cocker Spaniel
- American Water Spaniel
- Blue Picardy Spaniel
- Boykin Spaniel
- Brittany Spaniel
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Clumber Spaniel
- Drentse Patrijshond
- English Cocker Spaniel
- English Springer Spaniel
- Field Spaniel
- French Spaniel
- German Spaniel
- Irish Water Spaniel
- King Charles Spaniel
- Kooikerhondje
- Markiesje
- Papillon
- Phalene
- Picardy Spaniel
- Pont Audemer Spaniel
- Russian Spaniel
- Small Munsterlander
- Stabyhoun
- Sussex Spaniel
- Welsh Springer Spaniel
American Cocker Spaniel
| American Cocker Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 34-39cm (13-15in) |
| Weight | 7-14kg (15-31lb) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Origin | USA |
Merry, outgoing and gentle, the American Cocker Spaniel is a medium-sized dog. Ranging from thirty-four to thirty-nine centimeters in height and fifteen to thirty pounds in weight.
Not only is the American Cocker affectionate and kind, but it’s also even-tempered, making it an ideal family dog.
As they are energetic and intelligent, the American Cocker Spaniel needs daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep it truly happy. Not only that, but they are high maintenance in the grooming department. American Cockers come in various colors, including black, Tri-colour, Red, Silver, Brown, Tan, White & Buff.
American Water Spaniel
| American Water Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 38-45cm (15-18in) |
| Weight | 12-21kg (26-46lb) |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Origin | USA |
Although not well known outside of the USA, there is a lot to like about this active and alert dog. The American water spaniel is a medium-sized dog weighing in at around twenty-five to forty-five pounds. A proficient hunter and retriever, the American Water Spaniel, is nonetheless a good family dog.
Not only is the American Water Spaniel loyal and obedient, but it will excel in an active family home that provides positive outlets for its abundant energy.
Coat colors vary from liver, brown, and dark chocolate with the occasional white patches on the chest or toes. The doubled layered coat has a wavy or curly topcoat and a dense underlayer that protects from the elements.
If you want a dog that’s lively, friendly, and has plenty of energy, the American Water Spaniel could be the perfect dog for you.
Blue Picardy Spaniel
| Blue Picardy Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 57-60cm (23-24in) |
| Weight | 20-21kg (44-46lb) |
| Lifespan | 11-13 years |
| Origin | France |
Originating from France, the Blue Picardy Spaniel is a large Spaniel. Standing at around fifty-six to sixty-one centimeters at the withers and weighing in between forty-three to forty-five pounds. The Blue Picardy has a thick, flat coat that may be slightly wavy. Its distinctive color of speckled black-grey gives it a bluish hue.
Gentle, friendly, and obedient, the Blue Picardy Spaniel thrives in an active home and is good with children. Like most Spaniels, the Blue Picardy had boundless energy and can become destructive if they haven’t got a way of burning it off.
Versatile and quiet, the Blue Picardy thrives on human companionship. The ideal environment will enable this smart, friendly, and affectionate dog to shine.
“Epagneul bleu de picardie 868” by Pleple2000 is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0
Boykin Spaniel
| Boykin Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 36-46cm (14-18in) |
| Weight | 11-18kg (24-40lb) |
| Lifespan | 14-16 years |
| Origin | USA |
Confident, friendly, and intelligent, the Boykin Spaniel is a medium-sized dog standing around thirty-six to forty-six centimeters tall and twenty-five to forty pounds.
The Boykin has a flat or wavy coat that is chocolate brown with a dense underlayer that protects from the elements. Low maintenance, a weekly brushing, and an occasional bath are all that are required to keep the Boykin coat in good shape.
Excellent family dogs, the Boykin is easy to train, biddable, and eager to please. However, they have lots of energy and stamina, so they need an active home to keep them happy. Adaptable and friendly, they are never the less a dog that loves to work.
Brittany Spaniel
| Brittany Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 47-51cm (19-20in) |
| Weight | 14-18kg (31-40lb) |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Origin | France |
Social, good-natured, and alert, the Brittany is a busy, busy, busy Spaniel. Their irrepressible enthusiasm for life makes them an attractive member of the family and capable working dog.
Medium in size at thirty to forty pounds the Brittany loves to work and is very task-driven. If they don’t have an outlet for their energy and intelligence, the Brittany can become neurotic and destructive.
The Brittany’s coat is dense, flat, or wavy and is most often orange and white or liver and white. They shed very little, making the coat easy to maintain with weekly brushing and a bath only when necessary.
Brittany’s are not for the faint-hearted. Their stamina and energy make them a challenging dog for first-time owners. But if you can offer the Brittany lots of physical and mental exercise, they make gentle and happy family dogs.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 30-33cm (12-13in) |
| Weight | 5-8kg (11-18lb) |
| Lifespan | Over 12 years |
| Origin | UK |
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a friend to all. This small but sturdy dog loves people and hates to be left alone.
Small in size ranging from thirty to thirty-three centimeters in height, they are adaptable, intelligent, and affectionate. Perfect for first-time owners who are around most of the day. The Cavalier King Charles is loyal, undemanding, and eager to please.
While the Cavalier King Charles lacks the high energy levels and prey drive of some other Spaniels, they still need a fair amount of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy. However, they are flexible housemates loving a comfortable lap as much as a long walk. Their gentle and eager nature combined with their small size makes them ideal for families with children.
Medium to high in grooming requirements. The Cavalier King Charles coat is long, silky, and straight or slightly wavy. With colors ranging from black and tan, red, white and red, and tricolor, this little dog thrives when included in family life.
Clumber Spaniel
| Clumber Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 43-51cm (17-20in) |
| Weight | 25-34kg (55-80lb) |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Origin | France |
The Clumber Spaniel is the largest of the spaniel breeds. Standing between forty-three to fifty-one centimeters high and weighing in between fifty-five and eighty-five pounds, the Clumber is a solid and powerful dog.
Despite its robust build, the Clumber spaniel is a gentle, calm, and easy-going dog. While the Clumber retains its spaniel cousins’ endurance and hunting instincts, it does so in a systematic and relaxed way. The Clumbers’ adaptability and laid-back nature make it a good dog for first-time owners and families. However, it can be stubborn at times.
While more relaxed than some other spaniels regarding exercise requirements. The Clumber has higher than average grooming requirements. Daily brushing is required to keep shedding under control. Not only that but, as the Clumber has a white coat with lemon or orange markings, they need bathing more often than darker coated dogs.
However, if you want a reliable, loyal, and affectionate dog, the Clumber could be the dog for you.
Drentse Patrijshond
| Drentse Patrijshond | |
|---|---|
| Height | 55-63cm (22-25in) |
| Weight | 20-25kg (44-55lb) |
| Lifespan | 12-13 years |
| Origin | The Netherlands |
The Drent, as it’s more commonly known, was developed in the Netherlands to be equally comfortable as a hunting dog, farm dog, and family companion.
Medium to large, standing at around fifty-five to sixty-three centimeters, the Drent has a dense coat that is white with brown markings. While the Drentse Patrijshond is very much a working dog, they excel as a family pet given the right environment.
Devoted to its family, the Drent is playful, enthusiastic, and loyal if somewhat stubborn. More suitable for an experienced home, the Drent is never the less an adaptable dog that craves human company.
Grooming needs are daily, and you can expect a fair amount of shedding throughout the year. As with most Spaniels, providing enough exercise is vital to keep your dog happy and healthy.
English Cocker Spaniel
| English Cocker Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 38-41cm (15-16in) |
| Weight | 13-15kg (29-33lb) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Origin | UK |
Cocker spaniels are intelligent, kind, and determined. Given the right environment, they make ideal family pets and bond strongly with their special people.
Athletic and energetic, Cockers have above-average exercise needs. What’s more, it’s essential to keep the Cocker spaniel mentally engaged as they are intelligent dogs that don’t do well when bored.
Devoted to their family, Cocker Spaniels tend to suffer from separation anxiety. As such, they are unlikely to shine in a home where they are left alone for long periods. Playful and eager to please, Cockers also have a mind of their own and sometimes choose their way of doing things.
Not only that, but English Cocker spaniels are excellent alert dogs. They enjoy the sound of their own bark, so if you’re looking for a quiet dog, you may want to stay clear.
Cocker Spaniels have medium to long coats that are flat or slightly wavy, and they come in various colors, including Black, liver, black and tan, and shades of red.
A thorough weekly brush is all that’s needed for the Cockers coat to stay in good shape and a bath only when needed.
English Springer Spaniel
| English Springer Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 46-56cm (18-22in) |
| Weight | 18-23kg (40-50lb) |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Origin | UK |
English Springer Spaniels are devoted, adaptable, and loving dogs. Although they need plenty of daily exercise, they are an excellent fit for an energetic family.
Not only are Springer Spaniels playful and friendly, but they are also easy to train and eager to please. As there are two distinct breed lines, field-bred and show-bred, it’s important to choose your dog carefully, as working dogs require more exercise than their show cousins.
Whether show dogs or working dogs, the Springer Spaniel is an easy-going dog that is energetic, alert, and curious. Like many Spaniels, the English Springer does best in a family where someone is home most of the day and can provide company and mental stimulation for their dog.
The English Springer Spaniel has a double, weather-proof coat. The topcoat is flat or wavy and medium in length; the dense undercoat is short and soft.
The Springers coat comes in black, liver, predominately white with black, liver, or white markings. And to keep the coat looking its best, a daily brush is ideal.
Field Spaniel
| Field Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 44-46cm (17-18in) |
| Weight | 18-25kg (40-55lb) |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Origin | UK |
The Field Spaniel is a medium-sized dog that loves people. Although in need of plenty of exercise, the Field Spaniel is a playful and gentle housemate. While the Field Spaniel has an independent streak, they are nevertheless biddable and eager to please.
Loving, easy-going, and intelligent, the Field Spaniel can be sensitive and needs gentle handling. Patient with children, the Field Spaniel, does best when kept busy as it doesn’t tolerate boredom well.
Considered a rare breed, the Field Spaniel has a single, easy-to-care-for coat in colors of black, liver, and roan. Like the Cocker, the Field Spaniel can be vocal, although they are much more of an ‘alert’ dog than a guard dog.
Active, curious, and affectionate, the Field Spaniel is perfect for an experienced owner who can provide the right environment for this beautiful, energetic, if sometimes stubborn dog.
French Spaniel
| French Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 55-61cm (22-24in) |
| Weight | 20-25kg (44-55lb) |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Origin | France |
Athletic, intelligent, and even-tempered, the French Spaniel is a large dog, most typically with a brown and white coat. The easy-to-care-for fur is feathered, medium length, and needs brushing twice a week to keep it in good shape.
Outgoing, hardy, and determined, the French Spaniel is calm and gentle with children making them an excellent choice for a family pet. As with most Spaniels, use gentle handling as they can be sensitive and can suffer from harsh treatment.
Not only is the French Spaniel adaptable, friendly, and loving, but it’s also highly biddable and devoted to its family. However, it does need a lot of exercise and still enjoys going back to its roots and hunting in the great outdoors.
German Spaniel
| German Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 44-54cm (17-21in) |
| Weight | 18-25kg (40-55lb) |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Origin | Germany |
The German Spaniel, also known as the Deutscher Wachtelhund (German quail dog), is a medium-sized muscular dog. Sociable with humans and other dogs, the German Spaniel is nevertheless a keen hunter and is happiest when tracking prey.
The German Spaniel’s high prey drive means it’s a challenging dog for a first-time owner but in the right hands is an amenable and loving pet. Confident and biddable, the German Spaniel is a docile but highly energetic dog. Like most of its Spaniel cousins, the German Spaniel thrives in the human company and doesn’t do well left alone for long periods.
With a thick, wavy coat, the Germany Spaniel is a heavy shedder. But twice-weekly brushing should keep loose fur under control and the brown or roan coat looking healthy.
Loyal and affectionate, the German Spaniel is a versatile dog in the right environment.
Irish Water Spaniel
| Irish Water Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 51-58cm (20-23in) |
| Weight | 20-30kg (44-66lb) |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Origin | Ireland |
One of the most distinctive-looking dogs of this breed group, the Irish Water Spaniel, is also the largest, standing at around fifty-one to fifty-eight centimeters tall.
Sporting a dense, curly, liver-colored coat that sheds very little, the Irish Water Spaniel is easily recognizable. As the name suggests, this dog loves water and is an excellent swimmer benefitting from a protective double coat and webbed feet.
The Irish Water Spaniel (IWS) is affectionate, playful, and clownish. Both intelligent and eager to please, they nevertheless have an independent streak that some people might find challenging. However, in the right environment, the Irish Water Spaniel makes a loyal and loving pet and is a gentle and amusing companion for children.
As with most spaniels, exercise needs are above average. The Irish Water Spaniel will happily run all day and still have the energy for playtime.
Devoted to their family, the Irish Water Spaniel can be wary of strangers. Although not a vocal dog, they will alert bark to let family members know of approaching visitors. Like most Spaniels, the IWS forms a powerful bond with its family. As such, this dog thrives in a home where someone is around most of the day. Separation anxiety is common in the breed, and it can be destructive if left for long periods.
If you are looking for a fun-loving dog with a real sense of humor, the IWS could be the perfect dog for you. As a rare breed, they are not always easy to find, but if you are lucky, the Irish Water Spaniel will reward you as a devoted and affectionate companion.
King Charles Spaniel
| King Charles Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 25-27cm (10-11in) |
| Weight | 4-6kg (9-13lb) |
| Lifespan | Over 12 years |
| Origin | UK |
Not to be confused with their close cousins, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, King Charles is smaller in size with a shorter face.
Standing at only twenty-three to thirty-three centimeters high, King Charles is a diminutive dog with a happy, calm and gentle personality.
The King Charles Spaniel is intelligent, biddable, and affectionate. King Charles are quiet dogs and, unlike many other Spaniels, are content with two thirty-minute walks a day. Their small size, quiet nature, and relatively low exercise needs make them a popular choice for families. However, King Charles does not tolerate rough handling, so caution around children is essential.
King Charles has a beautiful, silky coat that needs daily brushing to keep it tangle-free and looking good. They come in four coat colors know as ‘King Charles’, which is black and tan, ‘Prince Charles’ which is tri-colored, ‘Blenheim,’ which is red and white, and ‘Ruby,’ which is a solid rich red.
As King Charles Spaniels thrive on affection, they are not suitable for families out most of the time.
Kooikerhondje
| Kooikerhondje | |
|---|---|
| Height | 35-40cm (14-16in) |
| Weight | 9-11kg (20-24lb) |
| Lifespan | 12-13 years |
| Origin | The Netherlands |
Although the Kooiker is not well-known outside of its native country of the Netherlands, they are an old breed of Spaniel developed during the sixteenth century as duck tolling birds.
Loyal and affectionate, the Kooikerhondje is hardy, energetic, and intelligent. Biddable and eager to please, these Spaniels do well in an active home that can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Cheerful, adaptable, and good-natured, the Kooiker makes a great family pet. However, as with most Spaniels, they can be sensitive, so they don’t tolerate harsh handling very well. Alert and good-natured, the Kooikerhondje is a quiet dog that is well-mannered if shy around strangers.
The Kooiker has a double, orange, and white coat and sheds moderately throughout the year, increasing in spring and autumn. Weekly brushing is all that’s needed to keep the Kooiker’s coat looking its best.
The Kooikerhondje is an adaptable dog, making it an excellent choice for an active family that can provide the exercise needs of this cheerful and good-natured dog.
Markiesje
| Markiesje | |
|---|---|
| Height | 35-37cm (14-15in) |
| Weight | Up To 6kg (13lb) |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Origin | The Netherlands |
Another Spaniel hailing from the Netherlands, the Markiesje is small, intelligent, and calm. Also known as the Dutch Tulip hound, the Markiesje is the perfect companion dog. This isn’t to say that this loyal and even-tempered dog does not require adequate exercise or mental stimulation, just that the Markiesje is an adaptable dog that thrives on human companionship.
The Markiesje’s coat is black or black with patches of white and is elegant and silky, needing weekly brushing to keep it looking its best.
Cheerful and curious, the Markiesje is an excellent watchdog, alert barking at strangers. But with family, this small Spaniel is playful, friendly, calm, and tolerant. If you have a small space in your life for a good-natured companion that enjoys long walks and plenty of attention, the Markiesje could be the perfect dog for you.
Papillon
| Papillon | |
|---|---|
| Height | 20-28cm (8-11in) |
| Weight | 2-5kg (4-11lb) |
| Lifespan | 14 years |
| Origin | France/Belgium |
Outgoing and energetic the Papillon might look like the perfect lapdog, but appearances can be deceiving. This little dog is a high-energy busy Spaniel.
Very intelligent, the Papillon is easy to train, if somewhat stubborn. Confident, happy, and affectionate, the Papillon is an excellent watchdog, alert barking to protect family members from unknown visitors. While fearless, the Papillon has no idea of its small size and will not think twice about asserting its authority over larger dogs.
Though the Papillon gets along well with children and other pets, they will not tolerate rough handling. This small dog will not think twice about defending itself, meaning that supervision of children and this self-assured spaniel is essential.
Despite the Papillon’s long flowing coat, it isn’t prone to mats or tangles. Brushing this Spaniel’s coat weekly or twice-weekly is all that’s needed to keep it in excellent condition. Papillons are always particolored – white with patches of any other color.
Regardless of the Papillon’s delicate looks and butterfly ears, this is a sturdy little dog that likes to be active. If you are looking for a lapdog, the Papillon is unlikely to fill that role comfortably. As an active companion, agility, or obedience champion, the Papillon is a loving and affectionate choice.
Phalene
| Phalene | |
|---|---|
| Height | 20-28cm (8-11in) |
| Weight | 2-5kg (4-11lb) |
| Lifespan | 14 years |
| Origin | France/Belgium |
The Phalene or ‘moth-eared’ Spaniel is the floppy-eared version of the Papillon. Both Papillon and Phalene puppies can come from the same litter.
While the Phalene was the earliest form of the Papillon, it was the butterfly-eared version of this small dog that gained popularity in the nineteenth and twentieth century. The Phalene was so out of favor that the breed became endangered. Fortunately, the moth-eared version of this toy Spaniel is enjoying a resurgence of interest.
As you would expect, the Phalene shares all of its personality traits with its Papillion counterpart. Energetic, playful, and affectionate with family, they are nevertheless wary of strangers and make excellent watchdogs. Although they can be vocal, the Phalene is not a ‘yappy’ dog and will usually alert bark when there is a need.
Loyal and devoted, the Phalene is an ideal companion for an active owner who will give them both the physical and mental exercise they need.
Picardy Spaniel
| Picardy Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 55-60cm (22-24in) |
| Weight | 20-25kg (44-55lb) |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Origin | France |
Developed in France and closely related to the Blue Picardy Spaniel, the Picardy is the oldest of the two breeds.
Although the two breeds share the same origins, the Picardy was crossed with various British breeds like the English Setter during the nineteenth century. This cross-breeding led to the Blue Picardy Spaniel and subtle differences between the two Spaniels.
Although extremely good with children, this calm, gentle and mild-mannered dog still needs plenty of exercise. The Picardy is a high-energy dog with above-average activity needs, so it is ideal for an active family. Not only is the Picardy intelligent and biddable, but its friendly and placid nature makes it easy to train. The Picardy is a dog that thrives when there’s a job to do.
The Picardy is not a dog that likes to be left alone as it’s exceptionally devoted to its family. Docile and loyal the Picardy is sensitive and responds well to positive and fair handling.
The Picardy’s coat is grey with brown patches and is dense and slightly coarse. Weekly brushing will keep your dog’s low-maintenance coat in good shape.
“Epagneul Picard” by Rachelle Vafidis is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0
Pont-Audemer Spaniel
| Pont-Audemer Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 51-58cm (20-23in) |
| Weight | 18-24kg (40-53lb) |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Origin | France |
Medium-sized and stocky, this rare breed hails from France. In fact, the Ponto, as it’s affectionately called, was so unusual that after the Second World War, it was crossed with Irish Water Spaniels to keep the breed alive.
The Water Spaniel’s influence is evident in the curly coat that remains smooth around the face. And the coat colors of solid brown and brown and white roan.
Gentle, affectionate, and fun-loving, the Ponto is often referred to as ‘the little clown of the marshes. Although the Pont-Audemer remains a predominately working dog, they can adapt to family life in the right home.
Intelligent and eager to please the Ponto is easy to train if the training remains fun. Hardy and energetic, the Pont-Audemer Spaniel is ideal for an experienced working home or an active family that is willing to work as hard as it does.
Playful and devoted, the Ponto is not an ideal first-time dog but an engaging and dedicated companion in the right environment.
“Epagneul Pont Audemer” by Alephalpha is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 or GFDL
Russian Spaniel
| Russian Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 38-45cm (15-17in) |
| Weight | 13-16kg (28-35lb) |
| Lifespan | 14-16 years |
| Origin | Russia |
A sturdy medium size dog resembling the Cocker Spaniel. The Russian Spaniel is taller with a shorter, easy-to-care-for coat and a more elongated body. Coat colors range from black and white, red and white, brown and white, and tri-color. Brush the coat weekly to keep it in good shape.
Easy-going and cheerful, the Russian Spaniel is equally comfortable as a working or family dog. Their friendly nature and devotion to their owners make them ideal dogs in the right environment.
Naturally athletic and energetic, the Russian Spaniel needs plenty of exercise. And as they are playful, they are always up for a game or two. What’s more, the Russian Spaniel is intelligent and easy to train thanks to its mild-manner and willingness to please.
If you can offer this versatile Spaniel plenty of exercise and human companionship, they will be a devoted friend for life.
Small Munsterlander
| Small Munsterlander | |
|---|---|
| Height | 52-54cm (20-21in) |
| Weight | 18-27kg (40-60lb) |
| Lifespan | 13-14 years |
| Origin | Germany |
While there is both a small and large Munsterlander, they are different breeds of dog.
The small Munsterlander developed in the Twentieth Century by crossing the Large Munsterlander (a long-haired pointer) with spaniels. The Small Munsterlander is a versatile dog that excels both as a hunter and as a family pet. Affectionate and mild-mannered, the Munsterlander has bags of energy and incredible stamina.
So, while it will adapt to and do well in a family home, this medium-sized spaniel is happiest when out and about. Intelligent, devoted, and cooperative the Small Munsterlander does have a stubborn streak that may challenge inexperienced owners.
They are very sociable and devoted to their owners, and as with most Spaniels, they do best when someone is around for most of the day.
The Munsterlander’s coat is easy to care for, with weekly brushing enough to keep it looking good. Coat colors are brown on a white or ticked background.
Stabyhoun
| Stabyhoun | |
|---|---|
| Height | 49-53cm (19-21in) |
| Weight | 18-25kg (40-55lb) |
| Lifespan | 13-14 years |
| Origin | The Netherlands |
Gentle, devoted, and tolerant, the Stabyhoun is a child-friendly dog. Its laid-back temperament means it’s patient and playful with children. While the Stabyhoun is calm indoors, like most Spaniel-type dogs, it remains a hunter at heart when outdoors.
Despite the instinct to hunt, the Stabij is less frantic than other Spaniels and is sensitive in nature and thoughtful in character. Though the Stabyhoun is eager to please, they also have a stubborn streak making them challenging for inexperienced dog owners. Having said that, the Stabij is a highly loyal, devoted, and affectionate dog.
Stabyhouns can be vocal and will alert-bark to protect both family and home. Even more than other Spaniels, the Stabij does not thrive in an environment left alone for long periods. Stabyhoun translates to ‘stand by me dog,’ and if you offer a home to one of these affectionate and loyal dogs, they will stick by your side whenever they can.
Despite its beautiful, sleek coat, the Stabij doesn’t need much regarding coat care. A weekly brush is enough to keep the Stabyhoun’s coat clean and healthy.
Sussex Spaniel
| Sussex Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 38-41cm (up tp 16 in) |
| Weight | 18-23kg (40-51lb) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Origin | UK |
Deliberate and determined, the Sussex Spaniel may not be the fastest hunter, but they always get their bird. Low to the ground and stocky, the Sussex Spaniel has a glossy golden liver coat that needs daily brushing to keep it looking its best.
Intelligent, gentle, and even-tempered, the Sussex Spaniel does have a stubborn streak and can be possessive of their family members. As the Sussex Spaniel is affectionate and loyal, it thrives in company. As such, it can become destructive if left alone for long periods.
If you don’t mind a talkative dog, the Sussex Spaniel makes for an engaging companion. However, they are known to be vocal and are not shy to express themselves. Which makes them excellent watchdogs. Easy-going with a soft personality they can be challenging for inexperienced dog owners. But in the right home, the Sussex Spaniel is a devoted family dog that enjoys the outdoors.
Welsh Springer Spaniel
| Welsh Springer Spaniel | |
|---|---|
| Height | 46-48cm (18-19in) |
| Weight | 16-23kg (35-51lb) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Origin | UK |
Lively, affectionate, and intelligent, the Welsh Springer Spaniel is both a working dog and a family pet. Good around children, their even-temperament is both kind and patient although they can be boisterous when young.
While they are relatively easy to train, the Welsh Spaniel can view commands as more of a suggestion and do their own thing. Welsh Spaniels are devoted dogs and form strong bonds with their family members despite this somewhat wilful nature.
While aloof with strangers, they are sociable and friendly to people they know. Welsh Spaniels are happiest in an environment where there is someone around for most of the day. In fact, if left for long periods alone, they can become destructive.
Welsh Spaniels are playful and mischievous and are best suited to an active home where they have plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
The beautiful red and white coat needs daily brushing to keep it healthy and to look good. As such, the Welsh Spaniel is reasonably high in the maintenance department.
However, this affectionate, easy-going dog is worth the effort. In the right home, excels as both family pet and efficient hunter.
Types of Spaniels the Highlights
There you have it, our complete Spaniel manual. It’s no wonder that Spaniel breeds are such a popular choice for both family and working dogs.
Gentle, hard-working, and mostly obedient, there’s a lot to like about this family of dogs. Whether you are looking for a large, active dog or a small cuddly companion, there’s a Spaniel to suit your every need. While Spaniels are some of the most adaptable dogs, they do like a job to do. They show themselves at their best when they are both physically and mentally active.
So, if you can offer a home that is active and busy with someone around most of the day, a Spaniel will reward you with affection, playfulness, and devotion.