Draw a picture of a dog crashing through damp reeds at dawn, ears fluttering, tail whirling, completely lost in the joy of the hunt. Now draw a picture of a different dog, small and silky, asleep on a velvet cushion in a palace. Both are spaniels. A couple of dog families cover such a wide range of jobs, sizes, and temperaments.
If you are thinking about bringing one home, or simply curious about the differences, this convoy to spaniel dog breeds introduces 18 of them. We have classified them by the work they were bred to do, because that history explains almost everything about how they behave today.
What Makes a Spaniel a Spaniel?
The word “spaniel” traces back to older references to dogs from Spain, though most current breeds were shaped in England, France, and North America. What binds them with each other is a working style: the spaniel sticks close to the hunter, explores thick cover with its nose, and either reddens or fetches birds.
You can normally spot one by its long, feathered ears, eloquent eyes, and gentle face. Coats vary from silky to curly, and colors run from liver and white to red, black, gold, and chestnut. Underneath, they have a soft, people-loving nature and a quick brain, which is why so many families approve of them.
Best Spaniel Dog Breeds at a Glance
| Group | Breeds | Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Bird-Flushing | English Springer, Welsh Springer, English Cocker, American Cocker, Field, Sussex, Clumber, Brittany | Small to Large | Active Families, Hunters, Owners With Time To Train |
| Water and Marsh | Irish Water, American Water, Boykin, Pont-Audemer | Medium to Large | Swimmers, Hikers, Outdoor Lovers |
| Toy and Companion | Cavalier King Charles, English Toy, Papillon, Tibetan | Very Small | Apartments, Seniors, Calmer Households |
| Rare European | Picardy, French | Medium to Large | Experienced Owners, Working-Dog Homes |
1 - English Springer Spaniel
Breed Overview
Group: Sporting (AKC)
Height: 19 To 20 Inches
Weight: 40 To 50 Pounds
Personality/Temperament: Friendly, Eager, Trainable
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Medium-Length Double Coat In Liver And White, Black And White, Or Tricolor
Life Span: 12 to 14 Years
