Field vs. Bench Bred Springer's
There are two types of English Springer Spaniels, the Field and the Bench (or Show) bred and the two have been known for over 70 years. As the name suggests the Field type is used in the field for hunting and the Show type is bred for their looks in the show ring.
The English Springer Spaniel has been an excellent hunting dog for centuries. They are flushing dogs who work within gun range to flush the bird into the air to be shot. They work well for upland game, with their specialty being pheasant, goose, quail, partridge and ducks. They love to retrieve, swim and perform very well in agility skills trials and obedience competitions. Field bred Springer’s have a short and wavy coat so after they have been out in the bush the burrs are able to just brush out. However if you do clip them, make sure to do it in July so that the hair has grown out enough to provide protection for hunting season. Well cared for Springer’s are very devoted and will work hard to please their master. The majority of Field bred Springer’s are longer than taller in the body, which is desirable for a working dog.
The English Springer Spaniel has been an excellent hunting dog for centuries. They are flushing dogs who work within gun range to flush the bird into the air to be shot. They work well for upland game, with their specialty being pheasant, goose, quail, partridge and ducks. They love to retrieve, swim and perform very well in agility skills trials and obedience competitions. Field bred Springer’s have a short and wavy coat so after they have been out in the bush the burrs are able to just brush out. However if you do clip them, make sure to do it in July so that the hair has grown out enough to provide protection for hunting season. Well cared for Springer’s are very devoted and will work hard to please their master. The majority of Field bred Springer’s are longer than taller in the body, which is desirable for a working dog.
A Bench bred Springer is one that competes in conformation shows and is usually more relaxed than the Field bred. All Bench bred dogs must meet a predetermined set of criteria set by the American Kennel Club. Their coat is generally dark-colored, usually liver or black and white. Most of them have docked tails and have a heavier bone structure with deep chests. They
require frequent grooming to take care and maintain their long coat.
require frequent grooming to take care and maintain their long coat.