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English Springer Spaniels are enthusiastic, water-loving gundogs with a coat to match: medium-length, weather-resistant and generously feathered. That coat collects mud, burrs and water with equal enthusiasm. Springers shed moderately, need regular brushing and periodic trims, and are prone to ear problems. This guide covers how to groom a Springer, whether it comes from show lines with a longer coat or working lines with a shorter, sparser one.
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Show Lines vs Working Lines
Show-bred Springers typically have a fuller, longer coat with abundant feathering on the ears, chest, legs and belly. Working or field-bred Springers generally carry less feathering and a shorter, more practical coat. The grooming routine is similar, but show-type coats need more frequent brushing and trimming.
The Springer Coat
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Springers have a double coat: a medium-length, flat or wavy outer coat over a soft, dense undercoat. The outer coat is weather- and water-resistant. Shedding is moderate year-round with increases in spring and autumn.
Brushing Routine
Brush two or three times a week, 15 to 20 minutes per session:
- Slicker brush through the feathering on ears, chest, legs and belly.
- Pin brush or bristle brush over the body coat.
- Metal comb through the ears, armpits and behind the elbows, where mats form most often.
- Undercoat rake during seasonal shedding.
| Area | Common problem | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Ear leather and feathering | Mats, food in feathering, infections | Comb 2-3x weekly; snood at mealtimes; weekly ear checks |
| Armpits and elbows | Felted mats from friction | Slicker and comb every session |
| Belly and chest | Mud, burrs, water | Rinse after wet walks, tidy trim |
| Feet | Hair collects debris and snow | Trim between pads, neat round shape |
| Hocks and tail | Straggly hair, burrs | Tidy trim every 6-8 weeks |
Ear Care for Springers
Springers have long, heavy, feathered ears that hang close to the head and cover the canal. Add a love of water and you have ideal conditions for ear infections. Check ears weekly for redness, dark wax and odor. After swimming or baths, dry the inside of the ear flap and use a vet-approved drying cleaner if recommended. Many groomers trim the hair on the underside of the ear leather and around the canal opening to improve airflow. Head shaking or a sour smell means a vet visit, not more cleaning.
Trimming a Springer
Springers look best with a tidy trim every six to eight weeks:
- Thin and shorten the hair on the top of the head and upper ear.
- Tidy the neck and throat for a clean outline.
- Trim feet round and cut hair between pads flush.
- Neaten the hocks and the edges of the feathering.
Pet owners often choose a shorter all-over trim for convenience, which is fine. Avoid close shaving of the body coat, which protects against weather and sun.
Bathing and Drying
Bathe every four to eight weeks, more often if your Springer loves mud. Brush out tangles first. Use a mild shampoo and a light conditioner on the feathering. Dry thoroughly, especially the ears and the dense coat on the chest and belly; damp undercoat can lead to hot spots. A freshwater rinse after swimming in lakes or the sea removes algae and salt.
Nails, Teeth and Skin
Trim nails every three to four weeks. Brush teeth several times a week. Springers can develop skin allergies and seborrhea, a condition causing greasy, flaky skin and odor. If your dog’s coat smells despite regular bathing, or you see flakes, redness or greasy patches, see your vet.
Professional Grooming Costs
A professional Springer groom with bath, blow-dry, trim and nails typically costs $65 to $110 in the US. Show-type coats and dogs with mats cost more. Many owners book every six to eight weeks.
FAQ
Do English Springer Spaniels shed a lot?
They shed moderately year-round, with increases in spring and autumn. Regular brushing keeps most of it manageable.
Why does my Springer keep getting ear infections?
Heavy, hairy ears and frequent swimming create warm, damp conditions. Allergies are also a common underlying cause. Dry ears after water and ask your vet about recurring infections.
Bottom Line
English Springer Spaniels need brushing two or three times a week, a tidy trim every six to eight weeks, and dedicated ear care, especially after swimming. Dry the coat fully after baths, watch for greasy or smelly skin, and keep feet and feathering neat. That routine keeps a busy Springer comfortable, clean and ready for the next adventure.
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