Sussex Spaniel

also known as Sussex

Pros History


The Sussex Spaniel is a small, affectionate breed of dog that originated in the county of Sussex, England in the 19th century. They were first registered by kennel clubs in the early 20th century, with the American Kennel Club officially recognizing the breed in 1884 and the Kennel Club in England recognizing the breed in 1892.

The breed's name, "Sussex Spaniel," comes from its origin in the county of Sussex, England, with "Sussex" referring to the location where the breed was developed and "Spaniel" referring to the breed's spaniel-like characteristics.

The Sussex Spaniel was developed by local farmers and sportsmen in the county of Sussex, England, who wanted to create a small, sturdy spaniel that could be used for hunting small game and as a companion dog. They used a variety of breeds, including the Clumber Spaniel, Welsh Springer Spaniel, and Field Spaniel, to create the Sussex Spaniel.

In the early 20th century, the Sussex Spaniel became popular in the United States and other countries as a companion dog, thanks to its unique appearance and charming personality. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 1884 and the Kennel Club in England recognizing the breed in 1892. The Sussex Spaniel Club of America was also established in the 1920s, which played a key role in promoting the breed and providing a platform for owners and breeders to come together.

Breed Information


Type

Is Sussex Spaniel a purebred?

Purebred

Pronunciation

How do you pronounce the Sussex Spaniel name? How do you say Sussex Spaniels?

SUH-siks SPAN-yuhl

Purpose

What were Sussex Spaniels originally used for?

small game tracking and flushing

Lifespan

How Long Do Sussex Spaniels Live? What is average life expectancy for a Sussex Spaniel? How long can Sussex Spaniels live?

12-15 years

The average Sussex Spaniel lifespan is somewhere between 12-15 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.

Sussex Spaniel Height & Weight


How big is a full grown Sussex Spaniel?

What is the average height of a Sussex Spaniel? How big is a Purebred Sussex Spaniel height? Sussex Spaniel dog height:
Height
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 13-15 inches (33 - 38.1 cm) 11.0 inches (27.9 cm) 12.0 inches (30.5 cm) 14.0 inches (35.6 cm)
Female 13-15 inches (33 - 38.1 cm) 11.0 inches (27.9 cm) 12.0 inches (30.5 cm) 14.0 inches (35.6 cm)
What is the average weight of a Sussex Spaniel? How much should Sussex Spaniels weigh?
Weight
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 35-45 pounds (16 - 20 kg) 30.0 pounds (14 kg) 35.0 pounds (16 kg) 40.0 pounds (18 kg)
Female 35-45 pounds (16 - 20 kg) 30.0 pounds (14 kg) 35.0 pounds (16 kg) 40.0 pounds (18 kg)
Weight Gain Potential

Do Sussex Spaniels get fat easily?

They are known for having a strong tendency to become overweight. It is important to find a balance between providing enough exercise and controlling their food intake. To maintain a healthy weight, it is recommended to increase the frequency and duration of daily walks and to engage in more playtime with the Sussex Spaniel.

Hypoallergenic

Are Sussex Spaniels Hypoallergenic?

No

Unfortunately, the Sussex Spaniel is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What is a Sussex Spaniel personality? What are Sussex Spaniel dogs best known for?

Calm
Companionable
Friendly
Cheerful
Devoted
Sociable

Shedding Level

Are Sussex Spaniels heavy shedders? How Much Does a Sussex Spaniel Shed?

Sussex Spaniel dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Sussex Spaniel. This will remove loose hair and keep his coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

What is the watchdog ability of a Sussex Spaniel dog?

The Sussex Spaniel dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, this breed will alert their owner.

Breed History


Origin

Where do Sussex Spaniels come from?

England

Ancestry

What are Sussex Spaniels descended from?

field spaniel

Date of Birth

When were Sussex Spaniels first bred? How old is the Sussex Spaniel breed?

1800s

Breed Group

What Breed Group is a Sussex Spaniel?

Sporting (AKC:1884)
Gun Dogs (UKC)

Sussex Spaniel Appearance


Eye Color Possibilites

What color are Sussex Spaniel eyes?

Hazel

Nose Color Possibilites

What color can Sussex Spaniel nose be naturally?

Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What color can Sussex Spaniel coat be naturally?

Brown

Coat Length

How long is a Sussex Spaniels coat?

The coat of a Sussex Spaniel falls in the medium length category.

Coat Density

How Dense Is The Sussex Spaniel Coat?

Coat Texture

What is the texture of the hair of a Sussex Spaniel?

Wavy

Litter Size

How many puppies can a Sussex Spaniel have in a litter? How many puppies can a Sussex Spaniel have in her first litter?

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

A Sussex Spaniel can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Sussex Spaniels are known for their adaptability and versatility, they are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments. They are a highly adaptable breed, and make great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Sussex Spaniel Health Issues


Health Issues

Do Sussex Spaniels have a lot of health problems?

The Sussex Spaniel is generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning a Sussex Spaniel?

Usually A Very Healthy Breed

Minor Concerns

What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Sussex Spaniels?

Intervertebral Disc Disease
Hip Dysplasia

Occasional Tests

What are the occasional tests recommended for Sussex Spaniel breed?

Hip
Skeletal
X-Rays

Sussex Spaniel Needs and Activities


Energy

Do Sussex Spaniels have a lot of energy?

Sussex Spaniels may be a good breed for those who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle. They tend to have a lower energy level than other breeds of dogs.

Social Needs

Do Sussex Spaniels need socialization? How social are Sussex Spaniels?

Sussex Spaniels have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.

Exercise Needed

How much exercise should Sussex Spaniels get?

The Sussex Spaniel dog needs significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are also well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Sleeping Need

How much sleep should a Sussex Spaniel have? Do Sussex Spaniels sleep a lot?

The Sussex Spaniel breed is known for their relaxed and calm nature and tendency to sleep for long periods of time.

Drooling Tendency

Does a Sussex Spaniel drool a lot?

The Sussex Spaniel is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

How much does it bark?

Sussex Spaniel dogs bark and howl frequently, they are not a good fit for quiet homes.

Territorial

Do Sussex Spaniels exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?

Sussex Spaniel dogs are known for being average at defending. They possess the capability to defend their territory or owners, but it is not their primary trait. They are not the best choice for guard dogs

Mouthiness

Are Sussex Spaniels mouthy?

Roaming urge

What is the likelihood of a Sussex Spaniel running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?

Prey Drive

Do Sussex Spaniel dogs have a high prey drive?

Activity Level

What is the energy level of a Sussex Spaniel? How much energy does a Sussex Spaniel have?

Medium

Sussex Spaniels are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How far should a Sussex Spaniel walk each week? How many miles should a Sussex Spaniel walk every week?

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Sussex Spaniel, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

How much a Sussex Spaniel should exercise a day? How much activity does a Sussex Spaniel need?

60 minutes

In general most Sussex Spaniels usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

What level of grooming should be provided for a Sussex Spaniel?

The Sussex Spaniel is a breed of dog that requires an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

How often should you brush a Sussex Spaniel?

Daily

Ideally, Sussex Spaniel should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What are the most commonly used brushing tools for Sussex Spaniels?

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Costs


Cups

How many cups of food does a Sussex Spaniel eat?

2 cups

For an average 35-45 pound (16 - 20 kg) Sussex Spaniel feed 2 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

How Much Does a Sussex Spaniel Cost Daily?

$2.50 - $2.80 / day

The average cost of a Sussex Spaniel is somewhere $2.50 - $2.80 per day.

Monthly Cost

How Much Does a Sussex Spaniel Cost Per Month?

$74 - $84 / month

The average per month expenses of a Sussex Spaniel is between $74 - $84. This makes an average of $888 - $1008 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Sussex Spaniel Characteristic


Intelligence

How intelligent is a Sussex Spaniel?

The Sussex Spaniel have below the average degree of obedience intelligence among other breeds. However, calling them “dumb dogs” is unfair. Where Sussex Spaniels lack in obedience & working intelligence, they make up for it with their keen ability to understand human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How sensitive is a Sussex Spaniel dog?

This dog breed is particularly attuned to its environment and the emotions of those around it. It can be easily overwhelmed by loud noises, new environments, and unfamiliar people or animals. This dog is best suited for individuals or families who are patient, gentle, and understanding of its sensitive nature. It may also benefit from a calm and stable home environment, with a consistent routine and plenty of positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Are Sussex Spaniel dogs affectionate?

Apartment Friendly

Do Sussex Spaniel do well in apartments? Are Sussex Spaniels good indoor dogs?

Sussex Spaniels are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.

Child Friendly

Are Sussex Spaniels good with kids? Are Sussex Spaniels good around children?

A Sussex Spaniels typical characteristics indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans

Senior-friendly

Are Sussex Spaniels good for elderly?

Cat Friendly

Are Sussex Spaniels good with cats? How friendly Sussex Spaniels are toward cats?

Sussex Spaniels are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood,

Dog Friendly

Do Sussex Spaniel dogs get along with other dogs? Are Sussex Spaniels OK with other dogs?

Sussex Spaniels are very friendly towards other dogs. This breed typically have a happy and affectionate temperament around dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Sussex Spaniel dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?

Stranger Friendly

Are Sussex Spaniels friendly with strangers?

Sussex Spaniels are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish. Early socialisation is key.

Playfulness

Do Sussex Spaniels like to play? Are Sussex Spaniels playful?

Sussex Spaniels have an average level of playfulness. The Sussex Spaniels, like other dogs, like to play. But they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

Are Sussex Spaniel easily trained?

Sussex Spaniel dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.

Pros Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Friendly
    Known for being friendly, outgoing, and good with children and other pets.
  • Good with cold weather
    Well-suited for cold weather and can handle living in cold climates.
  • Affectionate
    It is affectionate and bonds closely with its owners.
  • Great hunters
    Excellent hunters, it excels in field trials.
  • Energy level
    It has a moderate energy level, but it still requires daily exercise to stay healthy and happy.

Cons

  • Not Hypoallergenic
    The non-hypoallergenic nature of Sussex Spaniels can lead to allergic reactions in people prone to allergies.
  • Tendency to gain weight
    The Sussex Spaniel breed is known for its tendency towards being overweight.
  • Not suitable for office environment
    An office is not the best place for a Sussex Spaniel.
  • Barking
    This particular dog is known for its excessive noise.