The 60-second version of the English Springer Spaniel: what they're like, what they need, and whether one would suit your home — written for Australian owners.
English Springer Spaniel at a glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed group | Gundog |
| Weight | 20–25 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years |
| Energy | High — bred to quarter fields all day |
| Coat | Medium, feathered |
| Grooming | Brush 2–3 times weekly; ears need care |
| Shedding | Moderate |
| Good with kids | Wonderful — gentle, playful and tolerant |
| Puppy price (AU) | $1,800–$3,500 |
| Insurance (AU) | ~$45–$80/month |
Living with a English Springer Spaniel in Australia
The English Springer Spaniel is pure enthusiasm: the original "springer" that flushed game for falconers, now Australia’s quintessential happy gundog. They live in two gears — flat-out in the field and flopped at your feet — and their eagerness to please makes them one of the easier high-energy breeds to train. Show and working lines differ (working lines are lighter, drive-ier), so match the breeder to your lifestyle. Either way, expect a dog that finds every mud puddle in the district and presents it to you proudly.
Health watch-outs
A sound breed with the spaniel standbys:
- Ear infections — those lovely ears trap everything; weekly cleaning is non-negotiable.
- Hip dysplasia and eye conditions (PRA, PRA-cord1) — tested by good breeders.
- "Rage syndrome" — a rare but publicised aggression disorder in some show lines; buy from breeders who breed for temperament first.
Budget at a glance
- Puppy price: typically $1,800–$3,500 from a registered breeder — much lower offers are often scams.
- Insurance: around $45–$80/month — see our pet insurance cost guide for what shapes premiums.
- Moderate all-round costs — grooming a few times a year, robust health, and a working appetite.
Is a English Springer Spaniel right for you?
Great fit if you… ✅
- Active families wanting a trainable, affectionate gundog
- Bushwalkers, runners and beach regulars
- First-time gundog owners — forgiving and biddable
Think twice if… ⚠️
- Needs 60–90 minutes of real exercise daily
- The feathering collects burrs, mud and half the bush — grooming is part of the deal
Keep exploring
🍖 Best food: See our dog food picks — chosen for Australian conditions and budgets
🛡️ Insurance: What pet insurance costs in Australia — breed-by-breed premium guidance