Sussex Spaniel Background Information & History

The affectionate and calm Sussex Spaniel is a true hunter as well as a family companion. Originating from England back in the 19th century, these canines excelled both in the show ring as well as the hunting ground.

Unfortunately, during World War II, these dogs almost became extinct, however, they were able to survive because of several Sussex Spaniel enthusiasts who worked hard to continue breeding this rare breed. Although they have never gained the same popularity as their spaniel cousins, they are still a gentle and loving pet that is admired by many.

Sussex Spaniel Temperament & Personality

Although the Sussex Spaniel might be a fierce hunter in the field, when it comes to being at home, these pups are as mellow as can be. Many say their personality varies depending on what they’re doing. Generally, when they are with their family they are affectionate, happy, and downright joyful.

However, the Sussex Spaniel does come with their faults. For starters, these dogs tend to be stubborn. This can make training more difficult than other breeds. Although they are independent thinkers, they can still be taught good manners as long as they get firm and consistent training.

Sussex Spaniel Training Tips

As we just pointed out, the Sussex Spaniel can have a mind of their own. Professionals suggest starting the canine training process as young as possible so they learn proper behavior while they are still a puppy. When training this breed, make sure to use entertaining and consistent practices to keep your dog engaged throughout the entire lesson.

It is also recommended to use positive reinforcement like praise and encouraging words to support good behavior. If you are still having trouble training your Sussex Spaniel, try enrolling him in a puppy obedience course for extra assistance.

Sussex Spaniel Exercise Needs

Although the Sussex may not be the most active breed, they still require at least 20-30 minutes of exercise a day to stay both happy and healthy. This is especially important if they are locked up in an apartment all day or left alone for hours while their family is at work.

Sussex Spaniel Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Sussex Spaniel is between 11 to 14 years.

Sussex Spaniel Breed Popularity

Compared to other Spaniels, the Sussex Spaniel is not a very well-known breed within the United States. As of right now, these pups are ranked as the 172nd most popular breed out of 202 registered breeds by the AKC.

Sussex Spaniel Feeding Requirements

What you feed your dog can have a major impact on his overall health later on in life. That’s why it’s important to feed your pup high-quality and nutritious food from the very start. Look for a food that is free of any preservatives, byproducts, or fillers as the main ingredients. As a general rule of thumb, feed your Sussex Spaniel at least two cups of food a day, split into two equal meals.

Sussex Spaniel Grooming

The golden coat of the Sussex Spaniel is beautifully elegant and fairly easy to maintain. In general, a weekly brushing will suffice to mitigate their moderate shedding. Aside from their dog coat grooming, make sure to brush their teeth at least once a week to prevent tartar and bacteria from building up. This is especially important considering most dogs will develop dental disease at some point in their life.

It is also critical to check your dog’s ears, eyes, and nose for any sign of redness, irritation, or infection. Lastly, trim their nails every couple of weeks if they do not wear down naturally on their own. If you can hear your dog’s nails tapping on the hardwood floor, that usually means it’s time for a trim.

Are Sussex Spaniels Good With Kids?

As long as the Sussex Spaniel has been raised around children, they can fit into a household with many kids just fine. The only problem is that this breed is quite small, and may be too fragile for a rambunctious toddler. That’s why it’s recommended that the child be at least 8 years of age.

Sussex Spaniel Health Problems

Generally, the Sussex Spaniel is a fairly healthy breed, however, that doesn’t mean they are immune to all health complications. Possible dog health problems that may inflict your Sussex Spaniel include:

Hip Dysplasia: Hip Dysplasia in dogs is a common hereditary condition that affects most breeds. This occurs when the hip socket and thighbone do not properly fit together how they should, which causes lameness, and arthritis in severe cases.

Pulmonic Stenosis: This heart condition occurs when one of the main arteries cannot morph together after birth. Unfortunately, this condition is very serious and can lead to heart failure.

Other Resources

National Breed Website: Sussex Spaniel Club of America

Rescue: Sussex Spaniel Rescue