Spaniels
Spaniels are actually a type of gun dogs. Though it might surprise quite a few people, but the breed has a long history, as their first mention in literature goes back to the 15th-century where they are mentioned to have originated from France. Though on the smaller side, these dogs’ popularity lay in their efficiency in flushing game, especially from dense and difficult to access bushes.
Hundreds of years later, they are still among the most popular dogs and the most amazing pets. There are over 20 breeds of spaniels with numerous adorable types of crossbreeds as well. Being hunting dogs, they are happy to please, and rather easy to train. They make excellent companions and family dogs, and are generally good with children.
Spaniels have a decent lifespan for their size too. With the proper care, most breeds can live up to 10-15 years of a healthy life.
Types of Spaniel Breeds
Small Spaniel Breeds
- Papillon
- Phalène
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Sussex Spaniel
- American Cocker Spaniel
- American Water Spaniel
- Boykin Spaniel
- English Cocker Spaniel
- Field Spaniel
- German Spaniel
- Kooikerhondje
- Markiesje
- Russian Spaniel
- Welsh Springer Spaniel
The Papillon and Phalène are the smallest (and arguably, the cutest) of all spaniels.
Large Spaniel Breeds
‘Large’ Spaniel breeds are usually no taller than 20-25 inches.
- Irish Water Spaniel
- Picardy Spaniel
- Blue Picardy Spaniel
- Drentse Patrijshond
- Clumber Spaniel
- French Spaniel
- English Springer Spaniel
- Pont-Audemer Spaniel
- Stabyhoun
The Irish Water Spaniel, Picardy Spaniel, and the Drentse Patrijshond are three of the largest breeds of these dogs, standing at 25 inches tall and weighing over 60 lbs.
The clumber spaniel is considered the heaviest breed, as an adult can grow up to 90 lbs, but it does not grow over 20 inches in height.
Best shorthaired spaniel: English Springer Spaniel
Calmest spaniel: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
FAQs
Ans. Spaniels are typically double-coated, so they tend to shed considerably, so understandably, most of them are not hypoallergenic at all (except the Irish water spaniel). However, the exact amount of shedding will vary between breeds, and even individual dogs.