German Spaniel
Other names : Deutscher Wachtelhund, German Quail Dog
The German Spaniel was developed around 1890. It was bred to be a hunting dog and is closely related to an old German breed called the Stoeberer, which translates as “rummager.” Although it remains fairly unknown outside of Germany, it was recognised by the UK Kennel Club in 1996. It has that classic spaniel look - short, compact body with long, pendulous ears. An extremely friendly and social dog, they make excellent family pets. A perfect companion for younger children.
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Life expectancy |
The German Spaniel has a life expectancy of between 12 and 14 years |
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Temperament |
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Size |
Medium
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Adult size |
Female
Between 18 and 20 in
Male
Between 19 and 21 in
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Adult weight |
Female
Between 40 and 55 lb
Male
Between 40 and 55 lb
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Coat colour
Variations of brown, red, and roan. Can have white markings on the chest and/or legs. |
Brown
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Type of coat
Close fitting undercoat. Long, silky topcoat. Wavy, especially around the belly and legs. |
Long
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Eye colour
Dark orange. |
Brown
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Purchase price |
The German Spaniel costs between £900 and £1100 |
The German Spaniel is a sensitive dog. They must be reared gently, with a strong emphasis on rewarding good behaviour rather than punishing “bad” behaviour. Because of their placid natures, they can easily get overwhelmed by bigger and more aggressive dogs.
Teaching the recall command is essential. This dog likes to explore. If they pick up on an interesting scent, they can follow it for hours.
More details about the German Spaniel
German Spaniel: Origins and history
A German breeder named Frederick Roberth has been credited for developing the German Spaniel. He developed it by crossing water dogs and sporting spaniels with an ancient German breed called the Stoeberer. The Stoeberer was thought to have as good of a nose as the Bloodhound, which explains the German Spaniels excellent tracking abilities. It was first registered by the German Kennel Club in 1901. In the 1960s, a handful were exported to Northern America and Canada, where they still work alongside professional hunters and gamekeepers.
FCI classification of the German Spaniel
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Group 8 - Retrievers - Flushing Dogs - Water Dogs
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Section 2 : Flushing Dogs
German Spaniel: Characteristics
These dogs love people and will show affection to pretty much anyone. A very loving and kind-hearted dog that loves human contact.
Extremely playful. They love playing fetch and catch. The puppies have extremely high energy levels and will play for hours on end.
Puppies and younger spaniels are very excitable, but this tends to calm down as they start to mature. A well-developed German Spaniel is a calm and relaxed animal.
A smart dog. They’re capable of understanding basic obedience commands and some will respond to advanced training techniques.
These dogs were bred to track and hunt. They were mainly used as retrieving dogs, fetching game and water birds for their masters.
This dog loves people, and that includes strangers. A curious, highly social dog that wants to make friends with everyone they meet.
The German Spaniel relies on human contact and interaction. They enjoy structure, routine, and a sense of belonging. Very dependent on their owners.
German Spaniel: Behaviour
This dog doesn’t tolerate solitude, They need lots of human company. Leaving them alone for long periods of time will make this dog feel unhappy, and even depressed.
Very easy to train, even for the novice dog handler. Responds really well to reward-based training methods based around positive praise.
Generally quiet, but has a tendency to bark when they get over excited. Will also bark at any unusual or unexpected noises, like a knock on the front door.
These dogs really love their owners and will rarely run away. However, they are very sensitive to loud noises, especially fireworks. This can cause a fight or flight reflex, so make sure you keep an eye on them during bonfire night and news years eve.
A gentle and mild mannered animal that should never display any destructive behaviour.
Spaniels definitely have their greedy side. This dog will keep eating for as long as you let it, or until it’s sick! Restricting their food intake is really important.
A relaxed and docile breed, especially during the late evenings. Not the best choice for a watchdog.
Training a German Spaniel
Very easy to train, even for the novice dog handler. Responds really well to reward-based training methods based around positive praise.
German Spaniel: Lifestyle
A flat is not an ideal environment for these dogs. However, if they get enough exercise and company, the German Spaniel can be very happy in a flat.
60-90 mins of exercise every day. Like any other Gundog, they need plenty of opportunities to run free and explore.
This calm, docile dog is easy to transport.They’re very comfortable on short car journeys, although long trips need to be planned out carefully when travelling with any dog.
Breed compatibility German Spaniel
Although they’re natural trackers, German Spaniels can get on well with cats. In fact, if introduced from an early age, they can strike up an unlikely friendship with your kitty.
Will rarely display any aggressive or competitive behaviour. A placid, soft breed that enjoys making new “doggy” friends.
A perfect choice for families with children. The German Spaniel is a kind-hearted animal that has a real affection for younger children.
Elderly dog lovers will adore the German Spaniel. This medium sized dog is easy to handle and has a natural respect for its owner.
One of the very best choices for a first-time owner. The German Spaniel is gentle, soft-natured, and naturally obedient.
German Spaniel: Purchase price
The initial cost of a German Spaniel puppy is between £900 to £1,100. The average cost to keep one of these dogs (including vet bills, insurance, and food) is between £70 to £80 a month.
German Spaniel: Grooming
Despite its dense coat, this breed is fairly easy to groom. A quick brush every few days will keep it in good shape.
German Spaniel: Health
A very healthy, well-bred dog with a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.
A strong, well-balanced dog. Robust frame. Bred to track game through rugged countryside and dense forest.
Due to their heavy shedding, the German Spaniel is quite comfortable during the summer months.
They have a thick, double-layered coat that provides protection against the cold, the rain, and the wind.
This dog has a huge appetite and will eat much more than it needs. Keep their food intake within the recommended amounts.
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