English Springer Spaniel
ING-lish SPRING-ur SPAN-yul
Friendly, Playful, Obedient, Eager. Originally bred for flushing and retrieving game birds.
An adult English Springer Spaniel weighs 45-55 lbs (male) or 40-50 lbs (female), needs 860-1,560 calories daily, and lives 12-14 yrs. This medium-sized breed balances well between manageable size and robust health. The breed's primary health watch is hip dysplasia. All numbers below come from AKC breed standards and NRC 2006 veterinary nutrition formulas.
Nutrition and feeding
A typical adult English Springer Spaniel needs 860 to 1,560 calories per day. An average male (50 lbs / 22.7 kg) needs around 1,240 kcal; a female (45 lbs / 20.4 kg) roughly 1,140 kcal. These estimates use the vet-standard RER/MER formula.
Estimate for a typical adult English Springer Spaniel. For puppies, seniors, or specific activity levels, use the full calorie calculator.
Health profile
The English Springer Spaniel has a life expectancy of 12-14 yrs, which is typical for dogs in this size range. The breed's primary health concerns are hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy, which responsible breeders screen for before breeding.
Exercise and activity
60-90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise. Springers live up to their name; they spring game from cover and spring with energy everywhere else too. As a sporting breed, the English Springer Spaniel was developed for endurance in the field. They excel at activities that engage both body and brain: retrieving, swimming, agility courses, and long hikes on varied terrain. Many sporting breeds develop behavioral problems without adequate outlet for their natural drive. Without sufficient exercise, the English Springer Spaniel is likely to develop destructive behaviors, excessive barking, or anxiety. This is a breed that needs daily commitment to physical activity.
Care and traits
English Springer Spaniels have a medium-length, wavy, with feathering coat. Origin: England.
Show-bred and field-bred Springers have diverged significantly. Field Springers are lighter, more intense, and higher-energy. Show Springers are stockier and calmer. Both need substantial exercise.
The English Springer Spaniel responds exceptionally well to positive reinforcement training. Their eagerness to learn makes them suitable for advanced obedience, trick training, and competitive sports. Start training early and keep sessions varied to maintain their interest.
Tools for English Springer Spaniel owners
Frequently asked questions
Adult English Springer Spaniels typically need 860 to 1560 calories daily. A 50-pound individual falls near the middle of that range. Medium breeds are flexible eaters. Two meals daily with consistent portion sizes keeps most at a healthy weight. Working or competition dogs may need 20-30% more than resting estimates. Use our calorie calculator with your dog's actual weight for a personalized number.
Males typically weigh 45-55 lbs (20.4–24.9 kg). Females run lighter at 40-50 lbs (18.1–22.7 kg). Medium breeds can carry extra weight without it being visually obvious, especially those with thick coats. Hands-on rib checks are more reliable than looking. Run your hands along the ribcage: you should feel ribs under a thin layer of flesh without pressing hard. From above, look for a visible waist narrowing behind the ribs.
The top health priority for English Springer Spaniel owners is awareness of hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a developmental condition where the hip joint doesn't fit together properly. Screening through OFA or PennHIP before breeding is standard practice. In pet dogs, maintaining a lean body weight is the most effective way to manage and slow progression. Other conditions seen in the breed include progressive retinal atrophy, elbow dysplasia, ear infections. Not every English Springer Spaniel will develop these conditions, but knowing the breed's tendencies helps you and your vet monitor proactively.
Budget 60 to 90 minutes of exercise daily for a English Springer Spaniel. Good activities for this breed include retrieving games, swimming, field work. Mix physical activity with mental challenges like training, puzzle feeders, or nose work. An under-exercised English Springer Spaniel will find outlets for pent-up energy, often in ways you will not appreciate: chewing, barking, digging, or restless pacing.
Disclaimer: General breed information based on AKC standards and veterinary sources. Individual dogs vary. Calorie estimates use the RER/MER formula (NRC 2006). Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog. See our sources.
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026