English springer spaniel

English springer spaniel, breed of medium-sized sporting dog developed in England from the broader and very old category of springing spaniels that produced many of the present-day land spaniels. It stands about 18 in. (46 cm) high at the shoulder and weighs about 45 lb (20 kg). Its medium-length coat is flat or wavy with a fringe of longer hair, or feathers, on the ears, chest, legs, and belly. Its coat is usually either liver and white, tan and white, or black and white. Trained as a field dog, the springer flushes game and will retrieve on both land and water. It also has enjoyed great popularity as a house pet. See dog .

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2012, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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