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Cardhu Kennels
Springers of Distinction
A brief introduction to the English Springer Spaniel
A full breed introduction is available upon application - please email me via the link on my home page. These are my
views based on my experiences since acquiring my first Springer in 1985, and becoming seriously involved in the breed
in 1986. Other breeders will no doubt have different views.
I have a library of books and have travelled the world studying my chosen breed - but most of all, each and every one of
my Springers has taught me a bit more - may I never stop learning.
Pleaser whatever breed you choose do not support the puppy mills who churn out cross bred pups with no regard to the
welfare of either parents or the pups. For horror stories go to. Designer dogs
Jan
views based on my experiences since acquiring my first Springer in 1985, and becoming seriously involved in the breed
in 1986. Other breeders will no doubt have different views.
I have a library of books and have travelled the world studying my chosen breed - but most of all, each and every one of
my Springers has taught me a bit more - may I never stop learning.
Pleaser whatever breed you choose do not support the puppy mills who churn out cross bred pups with no regard to the
welfare of either parents or the pups. For horror stories go to. Designer dogs
Jan
Why Choose a Springer?
They are a sturdy breed. Usually Springers are good eaters and can live indoors or out. But to thrive, a Springer must have
human companionship. They are a happy dog with a merry tail (now undocked), eagerly anticipating your next move so he
or she can please you. Provide food, love and a safe environment and you will be repaid tenfold.
Springers are delightful dogs - to quote:
"Here we have a family companion with whom the children can play, that mum or dad can take jogging, that has medium
care coat, that won't bite the visitors but has a size and bark to deter burglars, that eats anything including Macdonald’s if
there is nothing else and generally not only kennels well but adapts to changing circumstances"
National Dog - May 1992
In addition the Springer is a dog who can work the game with enthusiasm and dexterity.
Before taking on a Springer please consider the following:
Your Springer can be:
-a loyal friend and companion
-fun to be with
Ownership is:
-a privilege
-a major responsibility
-a long term commitment (Springers often live 14 years plus)
Your Springer will demand:
-time
-money
-energy
-ability
Your Springer puppy is not:
-a toy to be played with and then discarded
-another human being
-a canine status symbol
Properly looked after, your Springer will reward you with years of pleasure. In return for your time and effort in providing for its
needs, it will display a loyalty that many people claim is greater than human friendship.
The Origins of the Breed (In a nutshell)
There are several theories of the origins of Springer Spaniels and many authorities say that the ancestral stock was
developed in Spain over 600 years ago.
Originally called the Springing Spaniel, the Springer was named because they flush game from cover, not holding a scent.
Several different varieties such as the Cocker and Sussex Spaniel are said to originate from the original Springer strain.
Sometimes one litter would contain dogs who would eventually be registered as either Cocker or Springer Spaniels; the
adult breed being determined by the size and use rather than bloodlines. Around 1900 the English were breeding for large
Spaniels (Springer) and smaller ones (the Cocker), it is said that some dogs started their show careers as Cockers and as
their age and size increased they were shown as Springers. Nowadays there are many more differences between the
breeds than mere size.
The English Springer Spaniel was recognised by the English Kennel Club in 1902. In 1921 a standard (the description of
what a Springer should look like) was set in the UK, this is the basis for the standard used in Australia today.
Health Issues
No breed is completely free of problems, though fortunately Springers are generally healthy. Like ALL dogs be they pure OR
cross breed, Springers can be susceptible to some heritable conditions.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This is a degenerative condition which eventually results in blindness. Responsible
Breeders are aware of this and have all dogs checked on an annual basis (this checking is essential for breeding stock).
Of very recent years there has been a DNA test developed which will indicate if a dog is clear, a carrier or affected with Cord-
1 PRA. There is some debate as to the veracity of these results – eg will an “affected” dog develop PRA – the debate will no
doubt go on. All Cardhu stock is checked.
Retinal Dysplasia: A congenital condition, present at birth. Specialists have widely differing views on this condition; it would
appear the main risk is when two affected dogs are mated – which can result in a detached retina. The condition has
varying levels from mild (of no consequence) to severe. All Cardhu puppies are checked by a specialist veterinary
ophthalmic surgeon at eight weeks, and come with the appropriate eye certificate.
Hip Dysplasia (HD): Some larger breeds can suffer from HD, a hereditary condition which results in pain and lameness. A
bad environment (eg: incorrect nutrition, too much hard work as a puppy on a surface like concrete) can aggravate a hip
problem, however it is primarily hereditary.
All Cardhu dogs used in my breeding pogram are have their hips X-rayed.
Health Summary: The above tests are expensive; so the unknowing or uncaring breeder may decide not to do them. No
matter who you decide to purchase a puppy from, ask the breeders – “Do these puppies’ parents have current clear eye
certificates and have they been X-rayed for HD”.
Temperament?
As with people each Springer is an individual. However as a general rule Springers are friendly, biddable, loyal and
outgoing. They love to be with people, they will be active if you are – but will happily laze around if nothing much is
happening – they are not a breed that needs to be entertained and stimulated.
Providing they are socialised early ( a proviso for all breeds) they are very good with other dogs.
How big will my puppy grow?
Springers are supposed to measure around 51cm (20") at the top of the shoulders. In practice most Springers end up
between 19 and 22", generally dogs are slightly bigger than bitches.
General Care:
This is enlarged upon in the handout I provide to all owners. Springers are classified as “moderate” in terms of the amount
of exercise and care required.
As with all dogs they require regular grooming, particularly if they grow profuse coat. A weekly comb out in front of the TV will
do the job, more information is contained in my full breed handout.
Ears should be kept clean with the right preparations - in my twenty plus years in the breed i have never had ear problems
with my Springers.
You must have a fenced yard which need not be huge as long as you can include regular walks. Springers were developed
to work with people, and so have a very biddable nature.
Children and Springers:
If you have very young children (or are considering one shortly) think carefully about a Springer, or any dog for that matter, be
sure you are prepared to invest the time to ensure your puppy grows into a well behaved adult.
Springers loooove children and are exceptionally tolerant, however they are a reasonably large dog and pups can be
boisterous. They can knock a child down unless they are supervised and trained, an adult Springer will (if you've put the
time into training) quickly understand the correct behaviour around a child. BUT NEVER leave small children and any dog
alone together unsupervised.
Working 'Parents'
I don't have a problem with the concept of owning a dog whilst the owner/s are working full time. Obviously you must ask
yourself if you are prepared to make the time investment after hours, but the rewards are considerable, to come home after a
hard day to find a best mate ready to listen to all the problems without reproach.
I will reiterate however that Springers are people dogs, if your work and interests leave little time for walks, talks (Springers
will understand everything you say) and the rubbing of tummies; it may be better if you think of postponing the purchase of a
dog.
The above material is copy write to Cardhu Kennels. (April 2009)
They are a sturdy breed. Usually Springers are good eaters and can live indoors or out. But to thrive, a Springer must have
human companionship. They are a happy dog with a merry tail (now undocked), eagerly anticipating your next move so he
or she can please you. Provide food, love and a safe environment and you will be repaid tenfold.
Springers are delightful dogs - to quote:
"Here we have a family companion with whom the children can play, that mum or dad can take jogging, that has medium
care coat, that won't bite the visitors but has a size and bark to deter burglars, that eats anything including Macdonald’s if
there is nothing else and generally not only kennels well but adapts to changing circumstances"
National Dog - May 1992
In addition the Springer is a dog who can work the game with enthusiasm and dexterity.
Before taking on a Springer please consider the following:
Your Springer can be:
-a loyal friend and companion
-fun to be with
Ownership is:
-a privilege
-a major responsibility
-a long term commitment (Springers often live 14 years plus)
Your Springer will demand:
-time
-money
-energy
-ability
Your Springer puppy is not:
-a toy to be played with and then discarded
-another human being
-a canine status symbol
Properly looked after, your Springer will reward you with years of pleasure. In return for your time and effort in providing for its
needs, it will display a loyalty that many people claim is greater than human friendship.
The Origins of the Breed (In a nutshell)
There are several theories of the origins of Springer Spaniels and many authorities say that the ancestral stock was
developed in Spain over 600 years ago.
Originally called the Springing Spaniel, the Springer was named because they flush game from cover, not holding a scent.
Several different varieties such as the Cocker and Sussex Spaniel are said to originate from the original Springer strain.
Sometimes one litter would contain dogs who would eventually be registered as either Cocker or Springer Spaniels; the
adult breed being determined by the size and use rather than bloodlines. Around 1900 the English were breeding for large
Spaniels (Springer) and smaller ones (the Cocker), it is said that some dogs started their show careers as Cockers and as
their age and size increased they were shown as Springers. Nowadays there are many more differences between the
breeds than mere size.
The English Springer Spaniel was recognised by the English Kennel Club in 1902. In 1921 a standard (the description of
what a Springer should look like) was set in the UK, this is the basis for the standard used in Australia today.
Health Issues
No breed is completely free of problems, though fortunately Springers are generally healthy. Like ALL dogs be they pure OR
cross breed, Springers can be susceptible to some heritable conditions.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This is a degenerative condition which eventually results in blindness. Responsible
Breeders are aware of this and have all dogs checked on an annual basis (this checking is essential for breeding stock).
Of very recent years there has been a DNA test developed which will indicate if a dog is clear, a carrier or affected with Cord-
1 PRA. There is some debate as to the veracity of these results – eg will an “affected” dog develop PRA – the debate will no
doubt go on. All Cardhu stock is checked.
Retinal Dysplasia: A congenital condition, present at birth. Specialists have widely differing views on this condition; it would
appear the main risk is when two affected dogs are mated – which can result in a detached retina. The condition has
varying levels from mild (of no consequence) to severe. All Cardhu puppies are checked by a specialist veterinary
ophthalmic surgeon at eight weeks, and come with the appropriate eye certificate.
Hip Dysplasia (HD): Some larger breeds can suffer from HD, a hereditary condition which results in pain and lameness. A
bad environment (eg: incorrect nutrition, too much hard work as a puppy on a surface like concrete) can aggravate a hip
problem, however it is primarily hereditary.
All Cardhu dogs used in my breeding pogram are have their hips X-rayed.
Health Summary: The above tests are expensive; so the unknowing or uncaring breeder may decide not to do them. No
matter who you decide to purchase a puppy from, ask the breeders – “Do these puppies’ parents have current clear eye
certificates and have they been X-rayed for HD”.
Temperament?
As with people each Springer is an individual. However as a general rule Springers are friendly, biddable, loyal and
outgoing. They love to be with people, they will be active if you are – but will happily laze around if nothing much is
happening – they are not a breed that needs to be entertained and stimulated.
Providing they are socialised early ( a proviso for all breeds) they are very good with other dogs.
How big will my puppy grow?
Springers are supposed to measure around 51cm (20") at the top of the shoulders. In practice most Springers end up
between 19 and 22", generally dogs are slightly bigger than bitches.
General Care:
This is enlarged upon in the handout I provide to all owners. Springers are classified as “moderate” in terms of the amount
of exercise and care required.
As with all dogs they require regular grooming, particularly if they grow profuse coat. A weekly comb out in front of the TV will
do the job, more information is contained in my full breed handout.
Ears should be kept clean with the right preparations - in my twenty plus years in the breed i have never had ear problems
with my Springers.
You must have a fenced yard which need not be huge as long as you can include regular walks. Springers were developed
to work with people, and so have a very biddable nature.
Children and Springers:
If you have very young children (or are considering one shortly) think carefully about a Springer, or any dog for that matter, be
sure you are prepared to invest the time to ensure your puppy grows into a well behaved adult.
Springers loooove children and are exceptionally tolerant, however they are a reasonably large dog and pups can be
boisterous. They can knock a child down unless they are supervised and trained, an adult Springer will (if you've put the
time into training) quickly understand the correct behaviour around a child. BUT NEVER leave small children and any dog
alone together unsupervised.
Working 'Parents'
I don't have a problem with the concept of owning a dog whilst the owner/s are working full time. Obviously you must ask
yourself if you are prepared to make the time investment after hours, but the rewards are considerable, to come home after a
hard day to find a best mate ready to listen to all the problems without reproach.
I will reiterate however that Springers are people dogs, if your work and interests leave little time for walks, talks (Springers
will understand everything you say) and the rubbing of tummies; it may be better if you think of postponing the purchase of a
dog.
The above material is copy write to Cardhu Kennels. (April 2009)