Do Springer Spaniels Shed? (Answered)
I just purchased a new home, and I am looking to adopt a dog. I want a dog that doesn’t shed very much since my sister has allergies and often visits. I want a dog that I can train to take hunting with me from time to time, but I also don’t want to spend my free time cleaning my whole house from top to bottom of dog hair. I love the way the Springer Spaniel breed looks, and I am considering adopting one, except I need more information.
I researched a lot and found some general information on this breed of dogs that may be usual for others. Here is what I found out.
Do Springer Spaniels Shed?
Yes, Springer Spaniels do shed. All dog breeds shed their hair no matter whether they are hypoallergenic or not. Some breeds shed more than others, and the Springer Spaniel is a dog breed that sheds a moderate amount of hair. They shed their hair regularly throughout the year and require regular visits to the groomer or at home trimming depending on their owner’s preference.
They do require regular daily brushing and care of their hair to keep this under control. For those pet owners that don’t mind a dog that does shed a moderate amount of hair and have the time to maintain their lovely appearance and keep it from getting out of control in their home, they are a beautiful dog breed.
Each dog is unique concerning shedding. All dogs shed, even if it is just a little. The amount of shedding a dog does in the same breed will vary due to genetic background, lifestyle, and health.
The Springer Spaniel sheds a moderate amount compared to other dog breeds, but one Springer Spaniel can shed more or less than another.
The Springer Spaniel was bred as a hunting dog, and they have a double coat of hair. A dog coat of hair is a second layer on the underside of their body that acts as insulation to protect their body. In hunting, this dog breed might have historically found themselves trudging through water, mud, and experiencing other weather elements.
This double coat was protection for those occasions similar to when we would layer a coat over a shirt or sweater for added protection.
This coat naturally increases the amount of shedding that they do since they have more hair to shed.
Their topcoat has a wavy texture and is of medium length while the undercoat would be shorter and denser to protect against weather elements. It also protects against dirt, thorns and other debris that the Springer Spaniel might come in contact with during hunting.
Combine this undercoat with their beautifully wavy and feather-like wispy hair around their ears, belly, and chest, and leg area, which means more shedding.
Why does a Springer Spaniel shed?
A Springer Spaniel sheds as part of a natural bodily function similar to panting and growling. Shedding is a normal process that happens year-round and seasonally due to weather and climate changes.
Shedding allows a Springer Spaniel to get rid of hair when the weather heats up and regrow more when the weather is cooling off. Seasonal and climate changes are the primary reason they shed, but they can also shed if they are pregnant, suffer a poor diet, lack a healthy lifestyle, or have a health issue.
Other things that cause excessive shedding are dehydration, lack of sleep and exercise, indoor lighting, air conditioning, and other indoor elements.
Most of these are an easy fix for the Springer Spaniel owner, but they must understand that this breed will still shed a good amount of hair due to their double coat.
Is there any way to stop the Springer Spaniel from shedding?
No, there isn’t any way to cut down on how much the Springer Spaniel sheds. Shedding is a normal bodily process for the Springer Spaniel, and it varies from dog to dog.
That would be like stopping us from having our hair grow and fall out. This situation would be unhealthy for the dog. Instead, lifestyle modifications can be made to minimize the effects of shedding and ensure that they are healthy.
How often should I brush and groom my Springer Spaniel to combat shedding?
The Springer Spaniel should be brushed regularly at least three times per week. This grooming can be done as part of a ritual created for the dog. Have breakfast, get a proper brushing followed by some treats, trip to the dog park, or walk around the neighborhood.
They can be groomed more often than this if it suits the owner and Springer Spaniel, but it isn’t necessary. Brushing less than this can increase hair around the house and make for a more extended brushing session.
When using the right tools and having the right frame of mind, brushing can become a natural part of their week that can be enjoyable for both owner and Springer Spaniel. A time of enjoyment where bonding and reconnecting take place as the dog receive care.
During this time of brushing, light grooming of trimming around the ears, head, paws, and tail can be done. This time will create a neat and pleasant appearance while further helping keep the Springer Spaniel clean.
Shedding is kept under control by these grooming sessions, allowing the owner to check for potential ear infections and other skin, hair, and body issues. These grooming sessions are not only for preventing excessive shedding of hair by the Springer Spaniels but also to keep them healthy.
It is best to perform this grooming and brushing out of doors or at the very least inside a bathroom. This care will keep any hair they shed from getting all over the house and causing a mess to clean up after.
Will the Springer Spaniels diet affect if they shed?
Yes, diet does play a role in shedding for individual dogs.
Each dog will shed differently depending on their genetic background, environment, lifestyle, and health status. Diet can actively play a part in how much a Springer Spaniel sheds. If they are eating a healthy and nutritious diet, it will show in their coat of hair.
An unhealthy diet can cause excessive shedding for any dog regardless of breed. Too many treats or dog food that doesn’t supply proper nutrition can cause shedding issues and skin allergies that can affect shedding.
A Springer Spaniel owner should consult with their veterinarian to determine healthy dog food for their dog. This consultation can include deciding on what treats to offer and if any supplements should be given.
Supplements such as fish oils have been shown to enhance the health and appearance of a dogs coat and skin. If authorized by their veterinarian, administering fish oils can be done right along with their dog food.
It is also essential to make sure that the Springer Spaniel has plenty of freshwater for their overall health, including their skin and coat of hair.
What else plays a part in determining how much a Springer Spaniel will shed?
Environment and lifestyle are two keys areas that can determine how much a Springer Spaniel will shed. If the Springer Spaniel lives in an environment where there is a tremendous amount of stress, this can cause them to shed more.
If the Springer Spaniels lifestyle isn’t in balance, if they are not shown affection and love, don’t receive adequate freshwater, or have a hard time sleeping, this can play a role in shedding a lot or a little.
Generally speaking, if they are well-loved and cared for, they will shed, but it won’t be excessive unless the seasons change, the weather changes, or they are having hormonal issues due to pregnancy.
The Springer Spaniels’ health can also play a part in if they shed and how much.
Shedding is strongly connected to overall health. If the Springer Spaniel is suffering in any way, their coat of hair can be the first place where symptoms and signs show up.
Another factor in how much they shed is their age. Some puppies will shed more than their adult counterparts but this isn’t determined necessarily by breed.
Aging or senior Springer Spaniels may shed more than younger dogs, but this is partly due to their physical body and overall health.
Final Thoughts
While Springer Spaniel does shed a moderate amount, this is easily remedied with a daily ritual and some lifestyle modifications. This can include using proper cleaning tools to ensure that the hair is easily removed.
With a well-rounded lifestyle, their shedding should be the average moderate amount, unless they suffer existing health issues which should be checked with their veterinarian. Many health conditions can be an easy fix, correcting the excessive shedding.
Shedding can be difficult to handle if it gets out of control, but thankfully the Springer Spaniel looks so adorable its easy to forget all about the hair that gets all over the living room and our clothes!