English Springer Spaniel Puppy Guide

Choosing the right puppy food

Select a complete puppy food with an AAFCO statement confirming it meets nutrient profiles for growth or "all life stages." The English Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized breed (adult weight 18–25 kg / 40–55 lb), so standard medium-breed puppy food is appropriate. Large-breed puppy formulas — designed for dogs with adult weights over ~25 kg — have a different calcium-phosphorus balance and are not necessary for Springers.

Look for a named protein source (chicken, turkey, salmon, lamb) as the first ingredient. The elevated protein in puppy food supports muscle and tissue development. Avoid supplementing with extra calcium or bone meal — commercially complete puppy foods already contain carefully balanced mineral levels, and supplementation can disrupt them.

Feeding schedule and portions

From 8 weeks to approximately 16 weeks: 3 meals per day. From 4 months onward: 2 meals per day (morning and evening). This twice-daily schedule suits most Springers through adulthood. Use the puppy food manufacturer's guide as a starting point for portions, then adjust based on body condition score. At a healthy growth rate, ribs should be easily palpable but not visible at rest.

One of the most common puppy-feeding mistakes is overfeeding a sporting breed in the belief that the dog needs extra nutrition to develop its future athletic capacity. Puppy formulas are already calibrated for growth needs. Excess calories — particularly excess fat — drive too-rapid weight gain and can increase joint stress in a breed already at risk for hip dysplasia. Feed to condition, not to appetite.

Weigh your Springer puppy every 2–3 weeks through the first 6 months. A consistently rising weight curve without sudden drops is the primary sign of healthy growth.

Safe early exercise

The English Springer Spaniel's enthusiasm for activity starts early — but growth plates in medium-sized dogs don't close until approximately 12–14 months. Before this point, sustained high-impact exercise — long runs, repetitive jumping, extended swimming — can stress developing joints and cartilage.

The practical guideline is approximately 5 minutes of structured exercise per month of age per session: a 3-month-old Springer can handle around 15 minutes; a 6-month-old, around 30 minutes. Free play in a garden or yard at the puppy's own pace is less risky than forced exercise because puppies self-regulate during play.

Begin basic obedience and socialisation early — the Springer's trainable, eager-to-please temperament means early training is both effective and safe. Scent games and mental enrichment activities tire an energetic puppy without orthopedic stress and lay the groundwork for field training or competitive sports later.

Health considerations in Springer puppies

The English Springer Spaniel's known health issues include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), phosphofructokinase deficiency (a hereditary exercise-related muscle disorder), ear infections (Otitis Externa), and in some lines, a behavioural condition known as Rage Syndrome. Responsible breeders health-test for hip dysplasia and PRA; ask to see parents' health certificates before purchasing.

Ear care should begin from puppyhood: the Springer's long, heavy, pendulous ears restrict airflow to the ear canal, creating a warm, moist environment where yeast and bacteria thrive. Check ears weekly and clean as needed using a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner. Dry the ear canal gently after swimming or bathing. Establishing this habit early makes the dog cooperative with ear handling as an adult and helps you catch the early signs of infection (redness, odour, head shaking) before they escalate.

Schedule a veterinary visit within the first week of bringing your Springer puppy home. A vet can confirm the puppy is healthy, establish a vaccination and parasite prevention schedule, and discuss breed-specific concerns — including hip evaluation and whether PRA screening of the parents has been done. Do not wait until the first vaccination appointment to raise concerns; earlier is always better.