English Springer Spaniel Health Guide
Everything english springer spaniel owners need to know about keeping their dog healthy.
Breed Overview
English Springer Spaniels are athletic, intelligent sporting dogs bred to flush and retrieve game. Their working background means they usually thrive with regular exercise, training, and close family involvement. Health-wise, the breed is generally long-lived, but responsible breeding programs pay close attention to inherited eye disease, hip and elbow dysplasia, and phosphofructokinase (PFK) deficiency. Parent-club guidance also flags epilepsy, cancer, bloat, and autoimmune disease as concerns reported within the breed. Their pendulous ears and active outdoor lifestyle can also make routine ear, skin, and coat care especially important.
Common Health Issues
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA / cord1)
An inherited retinal disease recognized in English Springer Spaniels that can cause progressive vision loss. Breeding dogs should have DNA screening and regular ophthalmology exams.
Hip Dysplasia
This breed should have hip screening through OFA or PennHIP. Dogs may show stiffness, difficulty rising, reluctance to jump, or exercise intolerance.
Elbow Dysplasia
Parent-club recommendations include elbow radiographs for breeding dogs. Affected dogs may limp, bunny-hop, or become sore after activity.
Phosphofructokinase (PFK) Deficiency
A breed-associated inherited metabolic disorder that can lead to intermittent anemia, weakness, dark urine, or exercise intolerance, especially during stress or heavy exertion.
Epilepsy
The breed foundation and parent-club materials identify epilepsy as a concern in English Springer Spaniels. Seizures always warrant veterinary evaluation.
Bloat / GDV Risk
Like other deep-chested, active dogs, some English Springer Spaniels may be at risk for gastric dilatation-volvulus. Nonproductive retching, abdominal distension, restlessness, or collapse are emergencies.
Preventive Care Schedule
English Springer Spaniels should follow a standard core vaccine schedule recommended by their veterinarian, along with year-round parasite prevention and routine wellness exams. Breed-specific prevention should include regular eye checks, especially if there is any concern about vision changes or a family history of inherited eye disease. For dogs intended for breeding, parent-club recommendations include OFA or PennHIP hip evaluation, OFA elbow evaluation, DNA testing for PRA (cord1), DNA testing for PFK disorder, and annual eye examinations by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist. Because floppy ears can trap moisture and debris, many Springers also benefit from regular ear exams and cleaning guidance from their vet. Dental care should start early with home brushing and professional cleanings as needed.
When to Use Telehealth for Your English Springer Spaniel
Telehealth can be especially useful for English Springer Spaniel owners who want help deciding whether eye discharge, mild limping after exercise, recurrent ear irritation, skin flare-ups, vomiting after dietary indiscretion, or subtle behavior changes need an urgent in-person visit. It can also help you review breeder screening paperwork, understand genetic test results, plan questions before an orthopedic or ophthalmology appointment, and troubleshoot grooming- or ear-care routines for this active, feather-coated breed. If your Springer has collapse, seizures, major eye pain, trouble breathing, a bloated abdomen, repeated retching, severe weakness, or signs of anemia, call your vet or seek emergency care right away rather than relying on telehealth alone.
English Springer Spaniel Health FAQs
What health tests should an English Springer Spaniel breeder do?
Are English Springer Spaniels prone to eye problems?
Why does my English Springer Spaniel get ear problems?
Is PFK deficiency serious in English Springer Spaniels?
What symptoms in an English Springer Spaniel mean I should see a vet quickly?
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Reading this content does not establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Every pet is different — always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet's health, diet, or care. If you'd like personalized guidance, you can talk to one of our vets. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency animal hospital immediately.