Sussex Spaniel

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Size

Medium

Life span

12 Years

Weight

20 Kg

Group

Gun Dogs

Sussex Spaniel Overview

The Sussex Spaniel is a beautiful natured dog and loves the company of their loved ones. They enjoy a slower pace of life even though they’re extremely energetic. They’re known for being very obedient but can also be stubborn at times. They love playing and very good with young children. This dog breed is just as happy spending their time playing outdoors as they do relax inside their home on their owner's lap.

The Sussex Spaniel has a hunting instinct and very high energy levels. They require an owner that's equally as active and enjoys the outdoors. They’re very clever and witty when in the right mood. They have a mind of their own, so, continuous training is a must! They’re easily adaptable if trained correctly when young.

Their body shape is small and compact and their ears are very typical of a Spaniel - pendant like, long and low on their head. Their coat should be silky and very soft and their typical colouring is golden.

The height and weight of both the female and male Sussex Spaniel do not vary too much and typically ranges between 18-20kg in weight and 38 - 41cm in height.

Thinking of buying or adopting a Sussex Spaniel?

Sussex Spaniel Characteristics

Size InformationIntelligence
  • 5
Size InformationExercise Needs
  • 2
Size InformationDogs Health
  • 4
Size InformationChild Friendly
  • 5
Size InformationApartment
  • 5
Size InformationShedding
  • 3
Size InformationGrooming Needs
  • 4
Size InformationBarking
  • 4
Size InformationAlone
  • 1
Size InformationTrainability
  • 3
Size InformationEnergy Levels
  • 2
Size InformationDog friendly
  • 5

History & Origin

The Sussex Spaniel originates from Sussex, England back in the mid-nineteenth century. 

Sussex Spaniel Temperament

The Sussex Spaniel is affectionate and makes an excellent family companion. This dog breed is full of energy and endurance even though they are not as fast-moving as other sporting breeds. They're friendly and rather cheerful, although they can be stubborn when it comes to training.

Sussex Spaniel Training

The Sussex Spaniel requires lots of daily exercises to help stay fit and happy. Because of their energy levels, they do require vigorous short blasts of running to let off some of that energy. They love to run and ideally should have a big enough garden to do so or live near an area with plenty of outdoor space to run freely. Unfortunately, this dog breed is prone to becoming rather naughty and destructive should they not receive enough daily exercise and mental stimulation. 

Grooming

The Sussex Spaniel requires regular grooming to help keep their coat healthy and shiny. As with most Spaniels, they do shed a lot and would therefore not suit an individual with allergies. They also require regular trimming of their coat to prevent it from becoming matted and unsightly. 

This dog breed also requires their teeth to be brushed on a daily basis as well as their ears checked regularly for any possible build-up of dirt which can lead to ear infections.

Health

The Sussex Spaniel is prone to certain genetic and environmental health diseases so it is imperative to use a reputable breeder to discuss any genetic testing they may have done and make sure your they've been bred responsibly. The health conditions this dog breed are predisposed to are:

  • Hip dysplasia 
  • Heart disease 
  • Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)



Sussex Spaniel Exercise Needs

The Sussex Spaniel requires lots of daily exercises to help keep them mentally stimulated and healthy. This dog breed is very active and would, therefore, suit an individual or family that loves the outdoors and exercise. They require two daily walks fo a minimum of 45 minutes each walk. This dog breed needs a garden to play in and would therefore not suit a small confined space with no outdoor space.

Children and other pets

The Sussex Spaniel is great with children and other pets provided they are socialised correctly from a young age.