Bringing an energetic English Springer Spaniel (ESS) into your home is an incredibly rewarding experience, but as any owner of a 14-month-old “Springy” knows, their enthusiasm can sometimes make basic commands like “come” a challenge. When dealing with this breed, understanding their specific temperament is key to successful obedience. Whether your dog is a working line or a show line, they still possess the innate instincts and intelligence of the gundog group.
If you are looking for the best resources to refine your training approach, moving beyond generic manuals toward breed-specific or gundog-focused literature can make a significant difference. Here is a guide on how to approach training your English Springer Spaniel effectively.
Understanding the Springer Spaniel Mindset
All English Springer Spaniels share a common heritage as members of the gundog group. Even if your companion is from show lines and has no intention of accompanying you on a hunt, their brain is hardwired for certain tasks. They are naturally inquisitive, highly driven, and motivated by scent and movement.
The secret to a responsive Springer is not to suppress these instincts, but to channel them. By engaging their natural desire to hunt, retrieve, and work in tandem with a handler, you transform “distractibility” into “focus.”
Recommended Training Resources
While general training books provide a solid foundation, professional trainers often suggest literature that specifically addresses the gundog psychology inherent in spaniels.
Top Literary Recommendations
- “The Pet Gundog” by Lez Graham: This is an excellent choice for owners who want to understand the modern, positive-reinforcement approach to gundog training. It is highly regarded for its practical application in family environments.
- “Training Spaniels” by Joe Irving: While some of the older methods may seem a bit dated, this remains a cornerstone for many enthusiasts. It offers invaluable technical tips for managing spaniel behavior. The best advice here is to take the actionable training principles and adapt them to your modern household standards.
- “Gundogs, Their Learning Chain” by Joe Irving: Often recommended by breeders and specialized trainers, this book breaks down the learning process in a way that is easy to follow and highly effective for long-term obedience.
- “Understanding Your Gundog” by Avis Boreham: A fantastic resource for getting inside the head of your dog and understanding the “why” behind their behavior.
The Role of Positive Reinforcement
For those who prefer a contemporary, science-based approach, authors like Pippa Mattinson are highly recommended. Her work, which is rooted in gundog training backgrounds but utilizes positive, force-free methods, is perfect for pet owners. Her techniques are versatile and can be applied successfully to show-line Springers, helping to build a strong bond through reward-based games and structured play.
Practical Training Strategies for Success
Training your Springer Spaniel is most effective when it feels like a game. Because of their high energy and intelligence, repetitive drills can often lead to boredom.
- Utilize Dummies and Toys: Since your dog is a natural retriever, use toys or training dummies to teach the “come” command. By turning the recall into a retrieval game, you are playing to their natural strengths.
- Seek a Specialist Trainer: Even if you do not plan to work your dog in the field, finding a local gundog-specialist trainer can be transformative. These experts know how to “hone in” on what your dog naturally wants to do and refine it into reliable obedience.
- Consistency is Key: A 14-month-old Springer is in their prime adolescent phase. Patience and consistency are your best friends. Ensure that every family member is on the same page regarding commands and expectations to avoid confusing your pup.
Final Thoughts on Raising a Well-Behaved Springer
Training an English Springer Spaniel requires acknowledging that their “naughtiness” is often just misplaced energy and untapped intelligence. By selecting the right training manuals and potentially enlisting the help of a professional who understands the breed’s specific mental landscape, you can turn your exuberant pup into a calm, responsive, and well-mannered companion.
Remember, training is a journey rather than a destination. By engaging your Springer’s natural instincts, you aren’t just teaching them to “come”—you are building a lifetime of trust and partnership. For more tips on managing your dog’s energy and improving your daily walks, be sure to check out our other articles on canine behavioral training!
References
- Graham, L. (2012). The Pet Gundog.
- Irving, J. (1993). Training Spaniels.
- Mattinson, P. The Gundog Trust & Related Training Resources.