Spaniel (Sussex)

Origins and History

The Sussex Spaniel originated in the county of Sussex, England, in the early 19th century. Bred from early English spaniels, the breed was refined by hunters who needed a low‑to‑the‑ground, steady‑working spaniel for dense cover. The first recorded Sussex Spaniel was shown in 1825, and the breed was officially recognized by the Kennel Club (UK) in 1874. It entered the American Kennel Club in 1888, where it remains a member of the Sporting Group.

General Characteristics

• Compact, muscular build with a low, rectangular profile
• Gentle, affectionate temperament; eager to please but can be shy with strangers
• Originally developed as a flushing and retrieving gun dog for upland game

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 15‑17 in (38‑43 cm); Females 14‑16 in (36‑41 cm) at the withers
• Weight: Proportionate to height, typically 35‑45 lb (16‑20 kg)

Coat and Color

• Long, dense, wavy coat with a feathered fringe on the ears, legs, and tail
• Accepted color: solid golden liver (often described as “golden”); no other markings or color variations are permitted by the AKC and UKC standards

Temperament Considerations

Sussex Spaniels are eager to work but possess a calm, steady disposition. Their mild‑mannered nature makes them responsive to positive reinforcement, yet they may be hesitant around unfamiliar people or loud environments.

Training Essentials

• Early socialization with people, children, and other dogs to reduce shyness
• Regular, moderate exercise (minimum 45 minutes daily) to satisfy hunting instincts without overstimulation
• Consistent, reward‑based training; avoid harsh corrections which can erode confidence

Daily Grooming

• Brush the coat at least once a day with a slicker brush to prevent matting and remove loose hair
• Clean ears regularly to prevent otitis externa, a common issue in breeds with long, pendulous ears
• Bath as needed; trim nails every 3‑4 weeks; brush teeth several times a week or use dental chews

Show Preparation

• Begin a structured grooming schedule 2‑3 weeks before the show: trim feathering to the standard length, hand‑strip any excess hair, and perform a final coat sweep the day of the ring
• Use a light, water‑based conditioner to enhance shine without weighing the coat down
• Present the dog in a relaxed, steady gait; maintain the breed’s characteristic low carriage and smooth movement

Common Health Issues

• Hip dysplasia – recommended screening by OFA or PennHIP
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and hereditary cataracts – annual eye examinations by a board‑certified ophthalmologist (CERF)
• Patellar luxation and occasional epilepsy – monitor for lameness and seizure activity
• Ear infections – due to long ears, regular cleaning is essential

General Care

• Provide at least 45 minutes to 1 hour of moderate exercise daily to maintain musculoskeletal health
• Balanced diet formulated for medium‑size breeds; avoid over‑feeding to reduce joint stress
• Average lifespan 12‑14 years; regular veterinary wellness exams support longevity