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Picture: Kent and Donna Dannen
Energy
Exercise
Playfulness
Affection
Friendliness towards dogs
Friendliness towards other pets
Friendliness towards strangers
Ease of training
Watchdog ability
Protection ability
Grooming
Cold tolerance
Heat tolerance
The Sussex spaniel tends to be less playful and demonstrative than other spaniels, with a lower energy level. This makes her better suited for city life, but she still appreciates the chance to take to the wilds and hunt up birds. She tends to bark when hunting, which has made her less popular with hunters than other breeds; some also bark or howl when not hunting. At home she is calm, steady and easygoing. Her somber expression is misleading because she is quite cheerful.
The Sussex needs daily exercise, but her needs can be met with a good walk on lead or a short romp in the yard. Given the chance, she will appreciate a longer foray into the field. She generally does best as a house dog that also has access to a yard. The coat needs brushing and combing two to three times a week, plus scissoring every few months.
Major concerns: none
Minor concerns: intervertebral disc syndrome, otitis exerna, heart murmur and enlarged heart
Occasionally seen: none
Suggested tests: cardiac
Life span: 12-14 years
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Some animal welfare organizations with Sussex Spaniels ready for adoption:
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