English Springer Spaniel Lifespan: Average Life Expectancy and More!

There are few dogs as cherubic, lovable, and spirited as the English springer spaniel. These medium-sized dogs have stamina and intelligence, along with wonderful dual personalities. 

Working springers are charming companions for the family. They also serve as trusty hunting buddies. According to the AKC, these dogs are highly trainable. They have been bred to work with their human partners and are born people pleasers. If you’re curious about how long these friendly and loyal dogs live, read on to learn about the English springer spaniel’s lifespan, how to extend their life, and more.

What is the Average Life Expectancy of English Springer Spaniels?

So, what is the average English springer spaniel lifespan? English springer spaniels have an average life expectancy of 12-14 years, which is consistent with other medium-sized dog breeds. Despite a few breed-specific health issues, they are typically healthy dogs. While most springers will enjoy a happy and healthy 12 to 14 years, some springers have lived beyond that. In the UK, the Thornberry Animal Sanctuary cared for Basher, a springer who passed away in February of 2022 at the ripe old age of 19. 

What is the Life Cycle of English Springer Spaniels?

Springers go through four major stages throughout their lifespan. These stages are the puppy, adolescent, adult, and senior stages.

Puppy

Springer puppies are usually ready to leave their mothers when they’re two months old and fully weaned. By three months, they generally weigh around 15 to 18 pounds and will begin losing some of their puppy teeth. For the first six months of their lives, springer pups are more dependent on you as their pet owner. They require training, age-appropriate and nutritious food, and lots of love.

Adolescent

In adolescence, a dog’s physical and psychological characteristics change from juvenile to adult. This happens between six months and nine months of age in males. For females, adolescence occurs between six and sixteen months. During this period, springers go through hormonal and neural changes. They may need more guidance from you despite their growing spirited personalities. Since they tend to get very attached to their owners, it’s also important to start helping them overcome separation anxiety by leaving them alone for short periods of time. Crate training can be an invaluable tool during this time.

Adult

English springer spaniels mature when they’re about 18 months old. That’s when they’ve typically reached their adult heights and weights. Males are usually 20 inches and 50 pounds, while females are generally 19 inches and 40 pounds. Despite their physical maturity, many springers are still quite energetic and puppy-like in behavior. In fact, if you’re a pet owner, you may notice that your springer doesn’t calm down until they reach two or three years of age.

Senior

There isn’t a definitive age at which English springer spaniels become seniors. In most cases, however, we consider them seniors by 9-10.5 years old. That said, springers are undoubtedly seniors by age 10 and a half. An aging springer undergoes several changes as they enter their senior years. Their energy levels may become lower, their vision may be diminished, and they may lose their overall vigor. Ongoing veterinary care and proper nutrition are essential during your springer’s senior years.

What Health Issues Affect English Springer Spaniels’ Lifespan?

While a well-cared-for springer will live to about 12 to 14 years, there are some health issues to be aware of. Some of the springers’ health problems are non-life threatening and can be managed with proper veterinary care.

• Elbow and hip dysplasia occur when the joints become loose. Though not fatal, these conditions can lead to arthritis if not treated properly.
• Ear infections can be common in this breed due to their long, floppy ears that tend to trap moisture. This can lead to yeast or bacterial infections.
• Obesity is easily managed with diet, exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups. Left unchecked, however, obesity can lead to joint problems, diabetes, and other serious health problems.
• Dental disease doesn’t just cause tooth loss in springers. It can lead to kidney, heart, or liver damage as well. Regular brushing and veterinary dental cleanings can help your springer keep their teeth and stay healthy.
• Skin diseases, such as seborrhea and pemphigus foliaceus, can be smelly and annoying issues for springers and their owners. However, proper veterinary care and topical treatments may help.

As with other dog breeds, English springer spaniels are susceptible to more serious health problems. Some of these conditions are congenital, meaning they’re born with the issue. Others can occur from an illness or injury.

• Coagulopathy is a bleeding disorder that can range in degree from mild to severe. If your springer is diagnosed with a form of coagulopathy, your vet may be able to prescribe steroids or other immune-suppressive medications.
• Epilepsy is a seizure disorder or neurological issue that can occur in springers. Typically, medication given throughout your springer’s lifetime will keep these seizures under control.
• Rage Syndrome, also known as Springer Rage, is a form of dominant aggression that can cause afflicted dogs to display intense aggression — sometimes even attacking their owners. Some scientists believe this is a form of epilepsy and recommend anti-seizure medications.
• Cancer is the leading cause of death among senior dogs. English springer spaniels are susceptible to some forms of cancer, which they may get at a younger age. Surgery and chemotherapy are both viable options for cancer treatment.

How to Lengthen the Lifespan of Your English Springer Spaniel

Owning any pet is a privilege. But with all of the rewards come fundamental responsibilities. However, with love and care, you and your English springer spaniel can enjoy many happy and healthy years together. Here are some ways in which you can help your springer get the most out of their 12 to 14 — and hopefully more — years with you:

• Diet: Your springer requires different nutrition at each stage of their life. Finding the best high-quality dog food for each life stage can put your pet on the path to healthy aging.
• Clean water: Although this seems like a given, pet owners sometimes forget to check their pets’ water dishes daily. It’s essential to wash and dry your dog’s water dish daily before filling it with clean water to prevent bacteria, bugs, and mold from putting them at risk for illnesses.
• Exercise: English springer spaniels are energetic dogs and require enough exercise to productively use all that energy. They should have a minimum of 1.5 to two hours of exercise daily. This can include several walks, games, hikes, or sports like flyball.
• Regular veterinary visits: Even the healthiest dogs need annual veterinary check-ups. Your vet will be able to recommend appropriate vaccinations and other preventative treatments.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Martin Christopher Parker/Shutterstock.com