Sussex Spaniel Dog

Breed: Gundogs

Height: 15 -16 inches

Weight: 35 - 45 pounds

Coat: Lustrous, golden, hairy coat

 

Sussex Spaniel dogs are a rare breed of hunting dogs, developed by an Englishman to alert the hunters of impending prey or danger. Noted for its ability to maneuver through all odds, this docile breed of dogs was initially treated as excellent hunting companion. A loving dog with a keen sense of loyalty, the Sussex Spaniels is much adored for its lustrous golden color and its keen sense of smell. Although it has a petite stature, the canine is perhaps the most dignified of all spaniels. The Sussex Spaniel almost resembles the Clumber Spaniel, although it is a little shorter than its canine cousin. Even-tempered and gentle, Sussex Spaniels make for lovely house companions and are known to get along well with both humans and animals alike. They are, however, very sluggish, which has earned them an indolent reputation in the canine world. They are devoted dogs, who love to laze around and needs maximum exercise to stay fit. To know more on this breed of dogs, read on.

 

The roots of Sussex Spaniel can be traced back to Sussex in Southern England, where it was first bred by an Englishman, Mr. Fuller of Rosehill Park to get a breed of gundogs, especially trained to alert the hunters. He crossbred White Norfolk with the Field Spaniel and other Springer Spaniels to develop the Sussex Spaniel. Because of its small legs and tapered body, the breed could easily steer through the undergrowth, which made it the perfect hunting companion. Sussex Spaniels were extensively used for hunting, but since they barked way too much, their popularity gradually declined with the hunters. Sussex Spaniels were acknowledged by AKC in 1884. This breed is more commonly found in England and USA.

 

The Sussex Spaniels are long-bodied, muscular breed of dogs with short legs and hairy body. These sturdy breed of dogs have a massive body and powerful gait. They usually wear a slightly sad expression on their face, but don’t be fooled by the somber expression, as these dogs can be fiercely attacking, if aggravated. They have loose skin and feathery tail and legs. These richly golden colored dogs have a weather resistant, lustrous, silky coat that lends them an august look. Their hairy ears beautifully frame their wide skull.

 

Sussex Spaniels make great house companions with their calm, easy going nature playing to their advantage. These otherwise somber looking dogs are very cheerful and friendly, even though they are placid and less outgoing than most other breed of spaniels. They are skillful hunters, but tend to bark at the slightest provocation. They are smart, enthusiastic and determined, but hate to socialize. This is one reason why these dogs need to be socialized from a very early age. Sussex Spaniels are good with kids and cats, but can get hostile if left alone in unfamiliar company. They are charming, gentle and exceptionally loyal. However, this breed of dogs need proper training. The trainer should be firm to resolve their behavior problems, as the dogs tend to get stubborn and willful at times. Sussex Spaniels have a strong protective urge, which explains why these dogs bark so much.

 

Sussex Spaniels have no known genetic disorder to their disadvantage. However, these dogs are extremely prone to ear infections and often suffer from other physical disorders like heart murmur, intervertebral disc syndrome, otitis exerna and enlarged heart. They also tend to put on weight very easily.

 

Sussex Spaniel dogs are average shedder and thus need moderate grooming. This breed of dog has medium-length coat that needs regular brushing. Since Sussex Spaniels are prone to ear infections, their ear needs extra care and cleaning. The canines are extremely hairy, and thus need occasional trimming. Their teeth and pads, too, need extra care and their nails need to be trimmed from time to time.