Spaniels are one of the most versatile groups of dog breeds currently in existence. A guide to the different spaniel dog breeds will show just how diverse a group this is. They include working dogs, generally with particular strengths in either water or field work, as well as breeds that were developed specifically as companions. Spaniels are active and intelligent, and their laid-back manners make them excellent pets for active families.
Companion dogs
While most spaniels make great pets, there are a few breeds currently recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) that were never meant to work. These dogs include the Tibetan Spaniel, the English Toy Spaniel and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. For those who enjoy the energetic, positive personality of the spaniel but do not have enough space for one of the larger breeds, these companion spaniels are the perfect match. Their size allows these spaniels to thrive in smaller environments such as apartments, but still enjoy having adventures in the outdoors. As you'll see later in a guide to the different spaniel dog breeds, the companion spaniels, standing about 10 inches tall and weighing around 10 to 15 pounds, are considerably smaller than others in their group.
Working spaniels
Working spaniels are generally divided between those best suited for water work and those best for field work. A guide to the different spaniel dog breeds may or may not separate these two groups because most breeds within the group are still used interchangeably between field and water. However, the original use for which the breed was developed often dictates its classification in this area. The field and water spaniels are medium-sized dogs, averaging around 17 inches tall and weighing about 40 pounds. These sizes vary according to the individual breeds, but most of the working spaniels stay near that size. These dogs have a silky, smooth coat built to repel water and to minimize tangling in the underbrush.
Water spaniels
These dogs are generally light and lean, being proportionately tall for their body mass. Their graceful build allows them to move easily through water and dense brush. This class of spaniel includes the well-known Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker, as well as the Springer Spaniel and Welsh Springer. The slightly less-known breeds of water spaniels that are recognized by the AKC include the American Water Spaniel, the Boykin Spaniel, and the Irish Water Spaniel.
Field spaniels
The purpose of keeping field spaniels is to have a dog with energy and stamina to match its human companions, as well as an ability to move through thick brush or tall grass without losing sight of its objective. These spaniels include the Field Spaniel, the Sussex Spaniel, and the large Clumber Spaniel. Until recently, this also included the Brittany (previously called the Brittany Spaniel), though the AKC has ruled that the Brittany's breed characteristics and uses are more consistent with setters than spaniels.
In addition to this information on the different spaniel dog breeds, in-depth information on the unique care requirements for these dogs should be sought by potential spaniel owners. These dogs are extremely friendly and active, but if they are not given enough mental stimulation and exercise in a home environment, they are prone to excessive weight gain, chewing from boredom and often depression. These intelligent working animals make playful pets because their instincts for retrieving and work lend themselves to playing games and training.
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