English Springer Spaniel Puppy Checklist: Everything to Do Before Bringing One Home

Before You Buy

Health Testing and Preparation Before Your Puppy Arrives

Verify Health Testing on Both Parents

English Springer Spaniels are prone to several inherited conditions. Ask for documentation on both parents before placing a deposit.

• PFK (Phosphofructokinase Deficiency): A DNA test for an inherited muscle and blood cell disorder. Both parents should be tested. Carrier × carrier pairings can produce affected puppies.
• Fucosidosis: A fatal lysosomal storage disease in Springers. DNA test required on both parents. Ask for certificates.
• Hip and elbow dysplasia OFA evaluation: Both parents should have passing scores.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): DNA test for the form of PRA affecting Springers.
• CAER eye examination: Annual eye exam certification on both parents.

Gear Checklist

• Medium-sized wire crate
• Harness and 6-foot leash
• Pin brush or slicker brush, and a wide-tooth metal comb
• Veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution — this needs to be on hand from day one
• Cotton balls for ear cleaning
• Quality puppy food (match what the breeder has been feeding)
• Food and water bowls
• Dog bed or crate mat
• Baby gates for house management
• Enzymatic cleaner
• ID tag and microchip registration

First Weeks at Home

First Vet Visit and Starting the Ear Cleaning Habit

First Vet Appointment (Within 72 Hours of Pickup)

• Full physical exam and vaccine status review from breeder records
• Set up vaccination and deworming schedule
• Discuss spay/neuter timing (12–18 months is common for medium breeds)
• Ask your vet to show you the proper ear cleaning technique
• Discuss heartworm, flea, and tick prevention for your region
• Get a referral for puppy training classes

Start Weekly Ear Cleaning on Day One

Do not wait until the ears look dirty to begin ear cleaning. The goal in week one is to establish it as a normal, positive part of life. Apply a small amount of ear cleaning solution to the entrance of the ear canal, massage gently, let the dog shake, and wipe clean with a cotton ball. Keep the session brief and reward heavily. Done weekly from puppyhood, this becomes routine. Started for the first time on an adult dog who's never been handled this way, it can be a struggle.

Coat Brushing Starts Week One Too

Even if the puppy coat is short, begin brushing sessions immediately. Focus on positive association — treats, calm voice, brief sessions. Pay attention to the ear flap area where adult feathering will eventually grow and mat most easily.

Training and Field Work

What Springer Owners Often Underestimate

Energy Level and Exercise Needs

English Springer Spaniels were bred as all-day hunting dogs. They have substantial energy and need at least 60–90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise as adults. A Springer that doesn't get enough activity will become hyperactive in the house, destructive, and prone to barking. Plan for daily off-leash running in a secure area, fetch sessions, swimming, or — for hunting enthusiasts — actual field work.

Spaniel Rage Syndrome: Know About It, But Don't Panic

A rare condition historically associated with certain show-line English Springer Spaniels involves sudden, unpredictable aggression episodes with no apparent trigger. The condition is poorly understood and appears to have a genetic component. It is uncommon, and most Springers are perfectly stable family dogs. However, ask your breeder about the mental health history of their lines and buy from a breeder who can speak candidly about temperament.

Training This Breed

Springers are highly trainable and enthusiastic learners, especially for retrieving and hunting tasks. They respond well to positive reinforcement and are eager to please. Begin basic obedience training from week one. Recall training is particularly important — a Springer with a bird in sight can lose its mind chasing it, and a reliable come command in the field is a safety essential.

• Enroll in puppy class within the first month
• Start recall training in a safe enclosed area from week one
• Establish a clear house routine — Springers adapt quickly to predictable schedules
• Never punish ear cleaning — always pair it with high-value treats