Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is extremely slender and barely over a foot tall, but has all the grace and sweetness of his taller Greyhound relatives. There is debate as to whether they were originally bred for hunting small game or meant to be simply a companion. In all likelihood, both are true, as they are adaptable to city and country life. The Italian Greyhound's coat can be any color, except brindle and classic black and tan.

History

As with many ancient breeds, their depiction in art and architecture provides insight into their origin. Miniature greyhounds appear in ancient decorative arts of the Mediterranean countries dating back 2000 years. During the Renaissance, Italian noblemen adopted the breed as their own and it became known as the Italian Greyhound. The breed made its way to England in the seventeenth century, gaining steadily in popularity.

Temperament

Playful and intelligent, the Italian Greyhound is generally easy to train and prefers to spend most of his time with his owner. They like attention, affection, are peaceful, are a gentle friend to adults, and children. Italian Greyhounds are an active breed that loves to run and play and requires daily walks. Their small size makes them ideal for an apartment and his short, smooth as satin coat makes him one of the easiest breeds to groom.

• Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1886.
• Ranging from 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Companion, small game hunter.

Environment

• Apartment is fine.
• Fairly active indoors.

Exercise

• Daily light exercise is fine.

Grooming

• Very easy care.
• Bathe only when necessary.
• Little to no shedding.

Irish Terrier

The Irish Terrier sports a beautiful red coat, an alert expression, and a trim outline with piercing eyes that reflect a rare intelligence. He is a gallant picture of authentic terrier type and character. The breed is good-tempered, spirited, and game. The breed's coat is short and wiry in texture.

History

His origin has been much debated, but there is indisputable evidence that he is one of the oldest of the terrier breeds. Early Irish Terriers came in a variety of colors, including black and tan, gray, and brindle. It was only near the end of the 19th century that the solid red color becomes a fixture of the breed. In World War I the Irish Terrier was used as a messenger and sentinel.

Temperament

The Irish Terrier is a smart, quick dog that quickly adapts to new situations. He'll guard his home and family members with determination and pluck. This breed is great with children when raised with them and is deeply loyal to his owner. Pups require firm boundaries so they will grow into respectful adults.

• Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1885.
• Average size: 18 inches tall at the shoulder and approximately 25-27 pounds.
• Vermin hunter; farm dog.

Environment

• Apartment is ok.
• Low activity indoors.

Exercise

• Daily moderate to extended exercise.

Grooming

• Brush regularly.
• Bathe only when necessary.

Irish Water Spaniel

The clown of the spaniel family, the Irish Water Spaniel will think of creative ways to accomplish even the slightest of tasks. Strong and intelligent, the tallest spaniel breed possesses several unique characteristics its liver-colored curly coat and signature “rat tail.” The water-repellent double coat consists of dense, tight ringlets with a topknot of long, loose curls and a smooth face. The “rat” tail is thick and covered with curls at the base, tapering to a fine point covered with short, smooth hair.

History

A dog of ancient lineage, there is evidence of Irish Water Spaniel-type remains going back as far as the 7th and 8th centuries AD. In the late 1100s, dogs found in southern Ireland below the River Shannon were called Shannon Spaniels, Rat-Tail Spaniels, or Whip-Tail Spaniels, among other things. Records document the “Water Spagnel” with “long, rough, curled hair and a tail somewhat bare and naked.” Today's IWS is a true dual-purpose hunting dog, as qualified with the upland game as with waterfowl.

Temperament

A typical Sporting dog, the Irish Water Spaniel is an active and energetic companion. He possesses the natural instinct to please, making him relatively easy to train, but regular exercise is important. Suitable for allergy sufferers, their hypoallergenic coats require brushing every few weeks and trimming every two months to neaten and shape the coat.

• Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1884.
• Ranging in size from 21 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder and 45 to 65 pounds.
• Water dog.

Environment

• Apartment is ok.
• Love a large yard.

Exercise

• Daily vigorous exercise.

Grooming

• Regular professional grooming recommended.
• Little to no shedding.
• Easy on allergy sufferers.

Havanese

The National Dog of Cuba and the country's only native breed, the Havanese is a small, sturdy dog with a friendly disposition. His wavy, silky coat is profuse, but remains extremely light, insulating and protecting the breed against harsh tropical heat. His coat, which comes in all colors, should remain untrimmed. The Havanese's popularity in the show ring has grown quickly, and they are also now high in demand as a family pet. The Havanese does really well with children and other pets.

History

An old breed, the Havanese is a descendent of breeds brought to Cuba from Spain and could also be related to the Tenerife, an ancestor of the entire Bichon family. Once known as the Havana Silk Dog and the Spanish Silk Poodle, the Havanese evolved from its role as a pampered lap-dog of the aristocracy into a family companion responsible for being a watchdog, child's playmate, and herder of the family's poultry flock.

Temperament

The Havanese is trainable and intelligent and possesses a naturally affectionate temperament, which making the breed an ideal family pet. Although a toy dog, they remain energetic and require some form of daily exercise. The breed's non-shedding coat makes it suitable for allergy sufferers, but regular grooming is necessary to keep the coat in top condition.

• Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1996.
• Ranging in size from 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder.

Environment

• Apartment is fine.
• Very active indoors.

Exercise

• Light to moderate daily exercise.

Grooming

• Regular professional grooming recommended.
• Little to no shedding.
• Easy on allergy sufferers.

Irish Setter

One of the most distinctive Sporting breeds, the mahogany red Irish Setter is an active, aristocratic bird dog. Originally bred to be red and white, the solid red color appeared in Ireland in the 19th century and became a mark of quality and superior sporting ability. Over two feet tall at the shoulder, the Irish is known for his style, powerful movement, and clown-like personality.

History

The Irish Setter became popular in the 18th century throughout Ireland and the British Isles. Developed from a mix of Irish Water Spaniel, Irish Terrier, English Setter, Spaniel, Pointer, and a dash of Gordon Setter, the breed was originally used to “set” game, crouching low near the birds so that the hunters could walk up and throw a net over bird and dog. When firearms were introduced, the Irish adapted into a gun dog that pointed, flushed, and hunted in an upright stance.

Temperament

A rollicking breed, the Irish Setter is high-energy and requires regular exercise. His outgoing and stable personality make him a favorite with families. Their long, glossy red coat, although beautiful, must be groomed regularly to prevent snarls or mats.

• Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1878.
• Average size: 60 to 70 pounds and 25 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Bird dog, show dog.

Environment

• Apartments? Not so much.

Exercise

• Daily vigorous exercise.

Grooming

• Daily brushing and combing.
• Bathe only when necessary.
• Average shedding.

Great Swiss Mountain Dog

Large, sturdy, and confident, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog (GSMD or “Swissy”) is a draft and drover breed robust and agile enough to perform farm work in very mountainous regions. As a working dog, Swissies like having a job to do and enjoy participating in hiking, carting, obedience trials, herding, weight pulling, and backpacking with their owners. The breed's short, dense coat is black with symmetrical rust and white markings.

History

Developed in the remote and isolated areas of Switzerland, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog was originally used for draft work, livestock management (herding and guarding), and as a farm sentinel. The breed was assumed to have died out by the late 19th century, as their work was being done by other breeds or machines, but they were rediscovered in the early 1900s.

Temperament

The “Swissy” is a social dog that enjoys being a member of the family. Owners should be patient with housetraining; dogs may grasp the concept in a few weeks, but it can take many months for them to become reliable. Daily exercise is necessary but should be moderate due to their large size and dark, thick coat, which can cause them to overheat in high temperatures. Coats need to be brushed once or twice a week.

• Working Group; AKC recognized in 1995.
• Ranging in size from 23 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Cattle driver.

Environment

• Apartment is ok.
• Thrive in moderate to cool climates.

Exercise

• Short daily exercise.

Grooming

• Regular brushing.
• Average shedding.

Greyhound

Tall and lean, the Greyhound is the fastest breed of dog. As a sighthound, the breed pursues game using its vision and speed. Today, however, the Greyhound primarily serves as a sweet and personable companion. The breed can be any color, including black, fawn, and red, often combined with white or brindle markings. The Greyhound has been owned by many prominent figures in history, including President Rutherford B. Hayes and General George A. Custer.

History

One of the most ancient breeds known to man, evidence of the Greyhound was first discovered in tomb carvings in Egypt dating back to 2900 B.C. Aristocracy and culture has always surrounded the Greyhound, and in early times, only royalty bred them. As hunters in England, they were used on practically all kinds of game from deer, stags, and foxes, but the hare is the Greyhound's natural quarry. In America, Greyhounds arrived with the Spanish explorers in the 1500s and were among the first dogs recorded at American dog shows.

Temperament

Although a loving companion, the Greyhound possesses the typical independent spirit of the hound, so patient training is necessary. They enjoy the company of their families as well as other dogs. The breed's short, smooth coat is easy to maintain. Due to the Greyhound's athleticism, they need daily exercise but should be kept on a leash or in a fenced area due to their tendency to run.

• Hound Group; AKC recognized in 1885.
• Ranging in size from 60 to 70 pounds.
• Hare hunter.

Environment

• Apartment is fine.
• Low activity indoors.
• Thrive in warm to moderate climate.

Exercise

• Daily moderate exercise.

Grooming

• Easy care.
• Average shedding.

Great Dane

A “gentle giant,” the Great Dane is nothing short of majestic. Sometimes referred to as the “king of dogs,” this extremely large dog breed is known for being strong yet elegant, with a friendly, energetic personality. Striking in the show ring, this breed is also popular as a family pet. Coat colors can be brindle, fawn, blue, black, harlequin, and mantle.

History

Historians claim that there are drawings of dogs that resemble the Great Dane on Egyptian monuments from roughly 3000 B.C. The earliest written description of a dog resembling the breed can be found in Chinese literature of 1121 B.C. The origins of the Great Dane as we know it today can be traced to the Irish Wolfhound with a mixture of old English Mastiff. The breed was originally developed by the Germans to hunt boar, a ferocious animal. When no longer used for hunting, the breed changed to one of a companion and estate guard dog.

Temperament

Great Danes have gentle and loving dispositions, making them excellent family companions, but as with all dogs, they should be supervised around young children. Daily exercise is necessary, but their short coats require minimal grooming.

• Working Group; AKC recognized in 1887.
• Minimum height of 30 inches tall at the shoulder for males and 28 inches tall for females.
• Boar hunter; estate guard dog.

Environment

• Apartment is ok.
• Low activity indoors.

Exercise

• Moderate daily exercise.

Grooming

• Easy care.
• Average shedding.

Great Pyrenees

Despite his regal and majestic appearance, the Great Pyrenees is a keen worker, faithfully guarding his flocks no matter the weather or terrain. With his intelligence, scenting ability, and excellent sight, he is an invaluable companion to the shepherd. The breed possesses a beautifully thick, weather-resistant white coat that may contain markings of badger, gray, or various shades of tan.

History

It is thought that the Great Pyrenees originated in Central Asia or Siberia and followed the Aryan migration into Europe. The breed takes his name from the mountain range in southwestern Europe, where they are used to guard flocks on the steep slopes. In addition to its association with the peasant shepherd, the Great Pyrenees was also cherished by the nobility and appointed French court dog in the 17th century.

Temperament

While affectionate with his family and quiet and tolerant in general, if there is something to guard or protect, the Great Pyrenees can become quite territorial. Because they were bred to work independently and make decisions on their own, Pyrs may not be the star of the local obedience class. The breed should be exercised daily on leash or in a fenced area. New owners should be prepared for barking, especially at night, and brushing approximately once per week.

• Working Group; AKC recognized in 1933.
• Ranging in size from 25 to 32 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Protector of sheep.

Environment

• Apartment? Not so much.
• Low activity indoors.
• Thrive in moderate to cool climates.

Exercise

• Daily moderate exercise.

Grooming

• Regular brushing.
• Bathe only when necessary.
• Average shedding, heavy seasonal shedding.

Goldendoodle

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Gordon Setter

The heaviest of the three setter breeds, the Gordon Setter was originally bred as a personal bird dog, but they are equally at home as companion dogs, obedience competitors and show dogs today. Sturdy and muscular, the Gordon suggests strength and stamina rather than extreme speed while on the move. The breed's distinctive black and tan coat allows it to be found easily in light fields and early snow.

History

The Gordon hails from Scotland, and his ancient lineage traces back to the early 17th century. Popular among hunters of Scotland, the black-and-tan Setter came into prominence in the kennels of the fourth Duke of Gordon in the early 19th century. As field trials became more popular, the Gordon's popularity waned in favor of Pointers and other flashy, fast breeds, but the breed remained unparalleled as a one-man shooting dog.

Temperament

Alert and confident, the Gordon Setter is devoted to his family. Although they are bright, they are not blindly obedient, so may appear stubborn. Gordons are capable of adapting to a variety of living situations but need plenty of daily exercise on leash or in a fenced area. Regular grooming is also necessary to prevent matting.

• Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1884.
• Ranging in size from 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and 45 to 80 pounds.
• Gundog.

Environment

• Apartment? Not so much.
• Low activity indoors.

Exercise

• Daily moderate to extended exercise.

Grooming

• Regular brushing and combing.
• Bathe only when necessary.
• Average shedding.

Giant Schnauzer

Despite his name, the Giant Schnauzer is not a giant breed, but simply a larger and more powerful version of the Standard Schnauzer. An active and spirited dog, his sound, reliable temperament, rugged build, and dense weather-resistant wiry coat make him one of the most useful, powerful, and enduring working breeds. His coat, including the beard and eyebrows that are the Schnauzer hallmark, is solid black or salt and pepper.

History

The Giant Schnauzer developed in the Wurttemberg and Bavaria sections of Germany, which were both agricultural areas where dogs were in high demand as farm help. He aided the shepherd in driving livestock to market and was used as a guard dog by the butchers and breweries. During World War I the breed was recognized in Germany for its intelligence and trainability, becoming one of the breeds used for police training.

Temperament

An extremely intelligent, energetic, strongly territorial dog, the Giant Schnauzer loves his owners and feels great responsibility to protect them. He learns quickly, however, and can distinguish between friend and foe. Giants need a lot of exercise, requiring daily walks, playtime with another dog, or romps in the yard. They especially love having a job to do. The breed also requires regular grooming, including brushing and stripping, so owners should be prepared to spend time maintaining the breed's coat.

• Working Group; AKC recognized in 1930.
• Ranging in size from 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Cattle driver.

Living Conditions

• Apartment? Not so much.
• Fairly active indoors.

Exercise

• Daily extended exercise is needed.

Grooming

• Regular professional grooming recommended.
• Low odor.
• Little to no shedding.

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever, with its intelligence and eager to please attitude, is one of the most popular breeds in the United States according to AKC registration statistics. The working ability that has made the Golden Retriever such a useful hunting companion also make him an ideal guide, assistance, and search and rescue dog. The golden-colored coat is the hallmark of this versatile breed and can range from light to dark gold.

History

The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands in the late 1800s and was used predominantly for hunting. He crossed his original “Yellow Retriever” with the Tweed Water Spaniel (now extinct) found on his estate. Later integrations of Irish Setter, Bloodhound, and more Tweed Water Spaniel produced the retriever we know today.

Temperament

This active and energetic Sporting breed can adapt to many different living situations but requires daily exercise. His water-repellant double-coat sheds seasonally and needs regular brushing. With his friendly temperament and striking golden color, this breed is both beautiful to look at and a joy to own. The Golden Retriever is great with children and other pets. They have an average lifespan of 10-12 years.

• Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1925.
• Average size: from 55 to 75 pounds.
• Devoted companions, hunting dog.

Environment

• Apartment is ok.
• Moderate activity indoors.

Exercise

• Daily moderate exercise.
• Love interaction and games.

Grooming

• Easy care.
• Regular brushing.
• Average shedding.

German Shorthaired Pointer

A versatile hunter and all-purpose gun dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer possesses keen scenting power and high intelligence. The breed is proficient with many different types of game and sport, including trailing, retrieving, and pointing pheasant, quail, grouse, waterfowl, raccoons, possum, and even deer. A medium-sized breed, he has an aristocratic bearing and can be solid liver or liver and white in color.

History

The origin of the German Shorthaired Pointer is not clear, but the source of the breed seems to have been the German Bird Dog, related to the old Spanish Pointer, and various crossings with local German scent hounds and track and trail dogs. When the Germans introduced the English Pointers to lend elegance to the German Shorthaired Pointer prototype, the result was a utility dog that combined sporting virtue with clean lines, good looks, and sound temperament.

Temperament

The German Shorthaired Pointer thrives as part of an active family. He is an even-tempered, intelligent, and loyal family watchdog that has enthusiasm for its work. An athlete, he can adapt to his living situation but requires consistent exercise. The GSP's short coat sheds, but grooming is minimal.

• Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1930.
• Average size: 55 to 70 pounds and 23 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Gun dog, family pet.

Environment

• Apartment? Not so much.
• Very active indoors.

Exercise

• Daily extended and vigorous exercise.

Grooming

• Easy care.
• Average shedding.

German Wirehaired Pointer

When the Germans wanted a dog that could do it all, they created the German Wirehaired Pointer, a versatile, multi-purpose hunting dog. Strong and medium-sized, with a typical Pointer personality, the breed's most distinctive feature is its functional wiry coat. Weather-resistant and water-repellant, the outer coat is straight, harsh, wiry, and flat-lying, which helps to protect the dog against rough cover while hunting. The coat must be liver and white in color.

History

Most of the early wirehaired Pointers represented a combination of Griffon, Stichelhaar (both mixtures of Pointer, Foxhound, Pudelpointer, and Polish water dog), Pudelpointer (a cross of Poodle and Pointer), and German Shorthair. The Germans continued to breed the distinctive traits of Pointer, Foxhound, and Poodle until they had created what is today the German Wirehair, a constitutionally tough, courageous breed who points and retrieves equally well on land and in water.

Temperament

Loyal and affectionate, the German Wirehaired Pointer craves human companionship and bonds closely with its “people.” A high energy and high drive breed, the Wirehair must receive regular exercise or have a job to do; otherwise, their creativity and independence may get them into trouble! Although they shed lightly year-round, Wirehairs with a correct coat require only minimal grooming.

• Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1959.
• Ideal size: 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Hunting dog.

Environment

• Apartment? Not so much.
• Very active indoors.
• Love a large yard.

Exercise

• Extended vigorous daily exercise.

Grooming

• Regular brushing.
• Bathe when necessary.
• Average shedding.

German Pinscher

Medium-sized, elegant, and square in build, the German Pinscher is an excellent watchdog and companion. Bigger than the Miniature Pinscher but smaller than the Doberman, the agility, alertness, intelligence, and stamina of the German Pinscher make it suitable for conformation, obedience, tracking, agility competitions, and more. Their short coats can be black, blue, brown, fawn, or red; some have red or tan markings.

History

Originally from Germany, the German Pinscher was prized for his vermin hunting ability. Despite his name, the German Pinscher is more closely related to the Schnauzer than the Doberman or Miniature Pinscher. Like many breeds, the German Pinscher approached extinction at the end of the World Wars, but interested owner Werner Jung revived the breed.

Temperament

A working dog, German Pinschers possess a natural instinct to hunt vermin and protect home and family. This creates a dog with a strong prey drive and a strong will. However, they are willing learners and they make wonderful multipurpose companions with firm but gentle and consistent discipline. A high-energy breed, they enjoy activities with their owners and require daily exercise. Their smaller size makes them suitable for city or country life, but they enjoy having a yard in which to run. The breed's short coat needs little maintenance.

• Working Group; AKC recognized in 2003.
• Ideal size: 17-20 inches tall at the highest point of the withers.
• Watchdog; companion.

Environment

• Apartment is ok.
• Moderate activity indoors.

Exercise

• Daily moderate exercise.

Grooming

• Easy care.
• Average shedding.

German Shepherd

The German Shepherd Dog is hailed as the world's leading police, guard, and military dog, however, this dependable breed is more than its 9-to-5 job. Consistently one of the United States' most popular breeds according to AKC Registration Statistics, the German Shepherd Dog is also a loving family companion, herder, and show competitor. The breed is approachable, direct, and fearless, with a strong, muscular body.

History

The German Shepherd Dog originated in 1899 at Karlsruhe, Germany due to the efforts of Captain Max von Stephanitz and others. Derived from the old breeds of herding and farm dogs, the first German Shepherd Dog exhibited in America was in 1907. The fame associated with Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart, two members of the breed whose movies played on variations of the boy and his dog theme, shot the popularity of the breed sky-high.

Temperament

Energetic and fun-loving, the breed is very fond of children once a relationship is established. He is a loyal family pet and a good guard dog, the ideal choice for many families. He requires regular exercise and grooming. The German Shepherd Dog is extremely intelligent. They are very easy to train with a firm hand and keep that training well.

• Herding Group; AKC recognized in 1908.
• Ranging in size from 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Herding, police work.

Environment

• Apartment is ok.
• Low activity indoors.

Exercise

• Daily moderate to extended exercise.
• May become restless without training.

Grooming

• Daily brushing.
• Bathe when necessary.
• Average shedding, heavy seasonal shedding.

English Toy Spaniel

The English Toy Spaniel is a small, square-bodied dog with a coat that flows like a royal cloak and a merry and affectionate personality. This breed is divided into four varieties based on color: Blenheim (rich mahogany red and white); ruby (rich mahogany red); Prince Charles (white with black and tan markings); and King Charles (black and tan). The coats in Prince Charles and King Charles varieties are longer. The breed appears in numerous noble portraits of the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries.

History

Authorities agree that the English Toy Spaniel originated in the Far East and later appeared in England, but exact details remain hazy. The black and tan, King Charles, appear to have been the King's favorite and the emphasis in early breeding programs was on this variety. For a long time, the varieties were bred without reference to color, producing several varieties in the same litter.

Temperament

The English Toy Spaniel is a gentle, happy, and playful loving breed that is naturally well-behaved and intelligent. They are good family companions and play well with children. Their small size makes them ideal for an apartment. All varieties of the English Toy Spaniel are easy-to-groom and require regular twice-weekly combing and brushing.

• Toy Group; AKC recognized in 1886.
• Ranging in size from 8 to 14 pounds.
• Companion dog.

Environment

• Apartment is fine.
• Low activity indoors.
• Thrive in moderate climates.

Exercise

• Light daily exercise is fine.

Grooming

• Regular brushing.
• Average shedding.

English Setter

A graceful, elegant gundog, the English Setter today excels in the show, obedience, and agility rings as well as in the field.

Although similar in function to the Irish and Gordon Setters, the English is a distinct breed, differing personality, and appearance. Their beautiful feathered coat is white with an intermingling of darker hairs resulting in markings called “Belton.” Belton markings can be orange, blue (white with black markings), tricolor (blue Belton with tan points), lemon, and liver.

History

One of the oldest gundog breeds, the English Setter was developed in England more than 400 years ago. Believed to have developed from Spaniel stock, the breed was originally called a Setting Spaniel. Before the use of firearms, this “Setting Spaniel” would find the birds and then crouch down on its front legs or “set” to allow the hunter to throw a net over the game. When guns became widely used, a more upright pointing stance was bred into the Setter so he could be more easily seen.

Temperament

This gentle, affectionate family dog loves to be with its people and does not thrive when isolated in a yard or kennel. Athletic and energetic, they also require daily vigorous exercise either on a leash or in a fenced area. Their beautiful, feathered coat requires regular maintenance, including brushing and clipping.

• Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1884.
• Ideal size: 24 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Bird dog.

Environment

• Apartment? Not so much.
• Average to large yard.

Exercise

• Daily moderate to extended exercise.

Grooming

• Regular brushing.
• Infrequent bathing.
• Average shedding.

English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel has been endowed with style, enthusiasm, and an “eager to please” quality common to most spaniels. He is recognized for his ability to keep going and going under adverse hunting conditions, which is partly due to his medium-sized, powerful body. He has long, hanging ears and a moderately long coat that can be black or liver with white, blue, or liver roan, and tricolor.

History

English Springer Spaniels and Cocker Spaniels were originally born in the same litters; the smaller “Cockers” hunted woodcock while their larger littermates were utilized to flush, or “spring,” game. In 1902 the Kennel Club of England recognized the English Springer Spaniel as a distinct breed (separate from English Cockers). The Springer Spaniel became even better known in North America after 1924 when the English Springer Spaniel Field Trial Association was formed and field trials were started for the first time.

Temperament

Cheerful and affectionate, Springers love their families and like to stick close to their owners. They make excellent house pets, but require daily exercise and need regular brushing and trimming to keep their coats neat and free of mats.

• Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1910.
• Average size: 40 to 50 pounds and 19 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Gun dog, versatile competitor.

Environment

• Apartment is ok.
• Low activity indoors.

Exercise

• Moderate to extended daily exercise.
• Love to swim.

Grooming

• Regular brushing.
• Regular grooming and trimming.
• Average shedding.