English Spaniels are kind, fun-loving canines that will captivate your heart. On the other hand, they can also be territorial, hyper, and needy. You may be wondering if English Springer Spaniels are the most troublesome dogs.
English Springer Spaniels are high-energy dogs. They need physical and mental stimulation that goes beyond walking them once per day. Unfortunately, depending on the dog’s bloodline, they can become aggressive.
To help prevent many of the issues in this article, you should be experienced in raising or caring for these rambunctious pups. They are not a dog that is recommended for beginner dog owners. Annual vet checkups and a proper diet can help eliminate issues such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and seizures.
Let’s take a deeper look at 11 common complaints of the English Springer Spaniel breed.
#1 They Require a lot of Socialization
Unlike other dog breeds, English Springer Spaniels demand a lot of socialization since they can become heavily bonded to their owner. Once bonded to one person, it can be hard to get them to open up to other people or pets. With proper training, this can be avoided.
#2 English Springer Spaniels Have Lots of Energy
If you’re looking for a dog to be a couch potato with you, they may be the wrong choice. English Springers require daily walks and at least 2 hours of exercise a day. If you aren’t active or a fan of exercise, they may not be a good dog for you.
#3 These Canines Need Constant Attention
Not only do English Springer Spaniels demand socializiation, but they also need plenty of attention. Leaving them alone for longer than two or more hours at a time can lead to anxiety and destructive behaviors. It can also create trust issues which can wreak havoc on the connection you and your dog share.
#4 Sudden Hostility
In rare cases, English spaniels can turn on their owner, family members, or other house pets on a dime. However, it would be best if you remember it is not always the owner’s fault. In some cases, aggressive genes passed from previous dog family trees are transferred into current generations.
#5 English Spaniels Shed
If you have pristine tastes in couches, carpets, and houses, you may not want to adopt one of these pups. Due to their double coat, they are bound to cover expensive furniture in dog hair. Plus, you must consider that they can carry dander, dust, and allergens from the outdoors and spread them through your home. Therefore, if you have severe allergies, they may not be the best decision for dog breeds to adopt.
#6 Uncontrollable Urination
When English Spaniels become excited, they can lose control of their bladders. So, if you are looking for a dog who isn’t prone to frequent accidents, they may not be the best idea.
#7 They Aren’t a Cheap Breed of Canine
Are you seeking your next family pet while on a budget? An English Springer Spaniel may not be an ideal choice. On average, they can cost about #13,000 to $15,000 a year.
#8 English Springer Spaniels Need Constant Training
Most dog breeds only need training at the puppy stages of their life. However, due to their high-spirited personalities, you must practice consistent training for most of their life. Training should also include family and friends to make sure that they treat everyone with the same respect and vice versa.
#9 They Love to Get Dirty
Spaniels love to be pampered with affection. However, don’t expect them to be pristine with their appearance. These pups love to romp around in the mud and cover themselves with it.
#10 English Springer Spaniels Enjoy Barking
Most dogs have a bark that they use at one point or another. In the case of English Springer Spaniels, they tend to bark at any chance they can. Since they are barkers, it may not be wise to keep them in a multifamily home, or complex. In addition, if you have neighbors who are quiet, or elderly, it may not be recommended to get one either.
#11 They’re Prone to Serious Eye Issues
Because of their genetics, many English Springer Spaniels are prone to eye issues. These include conditions such as:
- Glaucoma.
- Blindness.
- Cataracts.
Aside from agonizing eye conditions, they are also susceptible to life-threatening conditions such as heart disease, bleeding conditions, and PFK deficiency. PFK is a condition in which your canine does not metabolize glucose correctly.
In conclusion, English Springer Spaniels may not be the most troublesome dog. But, these 11 common complaints should be something to consider before adopting one. With proper nutrition, exercise, training, and veterinary check-ups, you can reduce the risk of most of these issues.
Summary of the 11 Reasons Why English Springer Spaniels Are the Most Troublesome Dog
Provide adequate exercise and playtime. | How to Prevent It |
They require a lot of socialization. | Proper socialization training. |
English Springer Spaniels have tons of energy. | Sudden hostility. |
They need constant attention. | Do not leave your canine alone for more than two hours. Otherwise, you may come home to half-eaten furniture. |
Sudden hosility. | Consult with your veterinary professional to discuss the best options for your pup. |
Frequent shedding. | A grooming routine, and vacuum will do wonders. |
Uncontrollable urination. | Use puppy pads when guests arrive to prevent urine staining. |
They are expensive. | Keep a budget in mind for a dog that will cost you $10,000 to $13,000 per year. |
Consistent training is required. | Most dog breeds don’t need training once they reach adulthood. On the other hand, English Springer Spaniels do need training at every stage of their life. |
They love to get dirty. | If you’re looking for a dog who loves to stay clean, English Springer Spaniels may not be a good choice. Additionally, you can limit exposure to mud puddles and such. However, you should be warned your dog will still go out of their way to find them. |
They enjoy barking. | Early training can help reduce barking. However, training does not fully stop it. If you live in a quiet place where your neighbors don’t appreciate noise, you may not want to choose this breed. |
English Springer Spaniels are prone to eye diseases. | Scheduling annual veterinary wellness exams will help monitor your dog’s health. However, it is important to remember that most eye diseases in English Springer Spaniels are hereditary. |
The photo featured at the top of this post is © IPGGutenbergUKLtd/ via Getty Images
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