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.
Key facts about the German Spaniel
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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 breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 8 - Retrievers - Flushing Dogs - Water Dogs
Section
Section 2 : Flushing Dogs
Physical characteristics of the German Spaniel
Adult size
Female : Between 18 and 20 in
Male : Between 19 and 21 in
Weight
Female : Between 40 and 55 lb
Male : Between 40 and 55 lb
Coat colour
Variations of brown, red, and roan. Can have white markings on the chest and/or legs.
Type of coat
Close fitting undercoat. Long, silky topcoat. Wavy, especially around the belly and legs.
Eye colour
Dark orange.
Description
Medium sized. Long-haired. Muscular frame. Classic spaniel look. Long pendulous ears. Soft, friendly expression.
Good to know
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.
Temperament
Behaviour of the German Spaniel
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Compatibility
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.
Grooming
Despite its dense coat, this breed is fairly easy to groom. A quick brush every few days will keep it in good shape.
Nutrition of the German Spaniel
2 cups of high-quality dog food.
Health of the German Spaniel
Life expectancy
A very healthy, well-bred dog with a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.
Strong / robust
A strong, well-balanced dog. Robust frame. Bred to track game through rugged countryside and dense forest.
Withstand heat
Due to their heavy shedding, the German Spaniel is quite comfortable during the summer months.
Withstand cold
They have a thick, double-layered coat that provides protection against the cold, the rain, and the wind.
Tendency to put on weight
This dog has a huge appetite and will eat much more than it needs. Keep their food intake within the recommended amounts.