How to Adopt a Springer Spaniel

By Sarah Letts

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Food dish
Water dish
Dog food
Dog brush
Collar
Leash
Veterinarian

Step 1:
Consider adopting an English springer spaniel from a rescue foundation. Due to the breed's popularity, many organizations specialize in placing springer spaniels in loving homes. Organizations such as English Springer Rescue America and Mid-Atlantic English Springer Spaniel Rescue have lots of available puppies and dogs to choose from. If you decide to adopt a full-grown spaniel, the dog may be already house-broken and fully trained. Most rescue organizations also have puppies up for adoption.
Step 2:
Seek out English springer spaniel breeders. There may not be one in your immediate area, but if you're willing to travel, you'll find one in your general vicinity. Most breeders put photos of their latest litters online, but it's best to avoid choosing a puppy until you meet the litter in person. You may find that one puppy's personality appeals to you in particular, and that isn't evident simply from photos.
Step 3:
Visit your local humane society. Purebred dogs are often given to the humane society simply because the prior owner is no longer able to care for the pup. Check in often. Purebreds tend to be adopted more quickly than mixed breeds.
Step 4:
Call pet stores in your area. Ask them to call you when they have English springer spaniel puppies in stock.
Step 5:
Ask about a particular dog's demeanor if he interests you. A breeder, rescue foundation worker or pet store employee may be able to give you special insight into the dog's personality. In general, English springer spaniels are energetic, cheerful and obedient, but every dog is different. If you have small children, ask how the dog interacts with kids.
Step 6:
Acquire dog supplies prior to bringing your spaniel home. You'll need a food dish, water dish, dog food and dog brush. A solid collar and leash is necessary for daily walks. Consider picking up dog treats for training purposes.
Step 7:
Keep your schedule clear for a few days. When you first bring your new English springer spaniel home, it's time to get acquainted. Try to stay home and get to know him for the first few days. He'll be getting used to you and starting to trust you, so use this time to its fullest.
Step 8:
Start a training schedule as soon as possible. If your dog is already trained, you'll still need to participate in some training to establish you as her new master. If your dog is not trained, start a program immediately. English springer spaniels respond incredibly well to training, including house-breaking, as they are fast learners.
Step 9:
Take your English springer spaniel to the veterinarian for a full-body health check. The vet can administer any vaccinations your dog is missing.

Tips & Warnings

Give your new dog lots of love. It's important to establish a bond in the first few days.
Never leave your English springer spaniel home alone for extensive periods of time. The breed is known to be destructive when left alone for too long.

Resources

Photo/Video Credit

http://www.kennels.co.uk/images/G.English.Springer.jpg

More Puppy Pages

How to Purchase a Purebred Puppy

Choosing to add a puppy to your family can be an emotional decision. However, emotions should not be allowed to run the decision-making process when choosing a puppy to purchase. Although you will love the puppy, you need to logically consider a number...

Maltese are toy dogs that stay relatively small, even when full grown. Most Maltese weigh between 4 and 10 lbs. as adults, and have full coats of white fur. They do not shed, and their fur does need to be regularly combed and clipped, as it is long...

Do I adopt, buy from a store, or buy a pure, a pure bred dog from a breeder? All three options are okay when considering buying a dog. My personal opinion is, what is your experience with owning a dog? I am a strong advocate of adopting rescue dogs. My...

How to Look for a Couch Potato Dog That Is Great With Kids

Selecting a mellow family dog takes some careful research. Factors to consider include the size of your house and yard, the level of commitment and time you are willing to put into training and exercising the dog and what size and age dog you prefer. A...

The English Springer Spaniel is a little bit larger than its cousin, the Cocker Spaniel. It is a breed to consider if you are looking for a hunting dog or a family companion. The dog can be trained to show or take part in agility trials.