🐕 Medium · England
The Sussex Spaniel is a low-set English flushing dog with a calm, dignified temperament, a deep baying voice and a more leisurely pace than most other spaniels.
The Sussex Spaniel is calmer and less excitable than most spaniel breeds, while being affectionate, playful and devoted to its family. It is notable for its deep, melodious bark, once used to alert hunters during a hunt.
Moderate daily walks and sniffing games are usually enough for the breed, with occasional retrieving and light search games suiting its original role as a flushing dog. For very athletic pursuits the Sussex Spaniel is less suited than other gundogs.
The dense, weatherproof coat needs regular brushing to prevent matting, especially around the ears, belly and legs. The drop ears should be checked routinely.
The friendly, calm temperament makes the breed well suited for beginners, though occasional stubbornness and a tendency toward loud barking should be expected.
Because of its long back, the breed is prone to disc problems, and heart defects such as pulmonic stenosis and hip dysplasia also occur.
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This information is for general guidance and does not replace veterinary or breeder advice. Temperament and health vary individually within every breed.
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