This breed was bred for the needs of hunters - fetching lined game. To date, Sussex Spaniels are most often used as companion dogs, and are also used for police service and animal therapy. From the Clumber Spaniels, they inherited a phlegmatic disposition, but during the service they will show the necessary activity, like their slow ancestors. The golden sheen of chocolate wool gives the appearance of the Sussex Spaniel a noticeable charm.
Sussex spaniels appeared at the end of the 18th century. in the east of Sussex as a result of the purposeful breeding work of the landowner W. Fuller. His goal was to breed a spaniel whose hunting qualities would best suit the characteristics of the local wooded nature. A notable quality of the new breed is the voice while working with a wild bird. The ancestors of the Sussex Spaniel were the Field Spaniel, the Clumber Spaniel, the English Springer Spaniel and the now defunct Norfolk Spaniel.
Outwardly, the new breed resembled the Clumber, the main differences were in the growth and color of the coat. The descendant of the Clumber Spaniel has an elongated format and a special golden sheen of chocolate (liver) color. Black Sussex Spaniels are not recognized by the modern standard. The slightly wavy coat on the chest, ears and legs of the dog grows more densely, due to which the characteristic "panties" are formed. On the long ears of the Sussex there is no undercoat that protects the rest of the body from hypothermia in the water.
This hunting dog has a phlegmatic temperament, but when necessary, it will be very active. During the hunt, it can perform the functions of a pointer or a retriever, working especially effectively in thickets. The Sussex Spaniel is great with children and is often involved in therapeutic practices. For his master, he will be an excellent companion. In addition to helping hunters, Sussex Spaniels serve in the police, looking for drugs.
The weak link in the health of the Sussex Spaniel is the eyes and mouth. It is necessary to carefully monitor the condition of the pet's eyes and do not forget about the breed's tendency to graze infectious diseases. Quite often, representatives of this breed have hip dysplasia, which is typical for many active dogs. Regular examination of your pupil and a balanced diet with sufficient intake of vitamins and minerals will help prevent diseases.
There are three options for keeping a Sussex Spaniel: in an ordinary apartment, a country house or a special dog house installed in the yard. Although it is a hunting dog, it does not require too much space for physical activity. Daily active walks should also be considered as the prevention of obesity, to which all spaniels are prone. Regular grooming is essential for the thick coat of the Sussex Spaniel. You should brush it daily with a special brush and comb, and carefully remove dirt between the pads of the dog's paws.
Try to create all the opportunities for your pet to spend excess energy. Long walks with physical activity and active games in the fresh air will always benefit the Sussex Spaniel. In permitted places, it is advisable to walk this dog without a leash. The natural phlegm of the breed contributes to the fact that your pupil will learn new commands more slowly than representatives of other breeds. Therefore, in training the dog, special patience should be exercised.
