English Springer Spaniels - The New Top Dog

The 2007 winner of Best in Show is an English Springer Spaniel nicknamed James. James beat out the top terrier at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show. The Dandie Dinmont Terrier was partially owned by Bill Cosby. Most experts believed that Cosby's dog was going to win the top prize.

With this surprise win, there will be lots of interest buzzing around about English Springer Spaniels. Many people will consider them for pets, as hunting dogs, and even for business purposes based on the Spaniel's new popularity.

English Springer Spaniels are a very old breed and have been popular dogs for a long, long time. Many old oil paintings feature Spaniels with their masters. It is not known the precise roots of the English Springer Spaniel family tree, but most experts agree that they are originally from Spain.

There are two types of English Springer Spaniels- field and bench. The field Spaniels are meant to be used for hunting. The bench Spaniels are bred for appearance, as they are used in dog shows.

English Springer Spaniels are medium sized dogs usually with long, wavy hair. Springer Spaniels are less than two feet high at the shoulders. Their average weight is about forty-five pounds. English Springer Spaniels are known for having a white blaze on their faces.

English Springer Spaniels were bred to be used for bird hunting, both on land and in water. They were bred for endurance. Because of their double coats, Springer Spaniels are virtually waterproof and make great swimmers. English Springer Spaniels are still used today for hunting. They make great pets, and do well in agility and obedience contests.

Generally, English Springer Spaniel's temperaments are loyal, affectionate, friendly and easygoing. Springer Spaniels have never met a stranger. Normally they are great with kids. They are one of the easier breeds to train and teach obedience because they are intelligent and eager to please their trainer.