-
Activity Level:
moderate
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Shedding Level:
moderate
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Grooming Level:
moderate
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Trainability:
high
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Good for Novice Owners:
high
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Adaptability:
high
-
Kid/Pet Friendly:
often
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Prey Drive:
high
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Watchdog:
aware
- Average Size: Medium
- Average Lifespan: 8-14 years
Bernese Springer Spaniel Dog Breed Information
Overview
Temperament
Adaptability
Health
Owner Experience
Grooming
Activity Level
Size
Life Span
The Bernese Springer Spaniel is a designer dog breed that is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and an English Springer Spaniel. Although a mixed-breed dog can inherit any combination of traits from one or both of the parent breeds, there are some things you can expect in a Bernese Springer Spaniel. These dogs tend to be energetic, playful, friendly, and intelligent dogs that make a great companion for single owners and families.
A Bernese Springer Spaniel is a loyal, loving, and affectionate dog that thrives on attention and affection from their families. They tend to have a sweet, gentle nature and an open, friendly disposition.
They also tend to get along fantastically with children, other pets, and people. They can have a high prey drive, so they may need some extra socialization with other smaller pets in the household.
Bernese Springer Spaniels tend to be highly adaptable dogs. They do well in both apartments and larger homes as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. Because they bond closely with their families and thrive on being with them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time.
These dogs have a double coat, which means they do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. They also should only be let off-leash in securely fenced areas as their high prey drive could lead them to run off in pursuit of something interesting and they may not notice or listen to recall commands.
The Bernese Springer Spaniel is a generally healthy designer breed. As with any dog breed, there are some potential health concerns to be aware of. In the Bernese Springer Spaniel, these include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye conditions.
Reputable breeders will regularly screen their stock to make sure they are not passing issues on to puppies. So, don’t be afraid to ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. Should a Bernese Springer Spaniel take more after their Berner parent and inherit their larger size and body shape, they may be at a higher risk for bloat in dogs.
This is a highly trainable dog breed. Bernese Springer Spaniels are eager to please their owners, intelligent, and obedient. This means they pick up on things quickly and also tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes can still be a good idea as they offer opportunities to socialize a puppy and can also help strengthen your bond with them.
A Bernese Springer Spaniel tends to have a thick double coat with a medium length outer coat. They shed moderately year-round with heavier shedding sessions as the seasons change. Brushing a couple of times a week is usually enough to remove tangles and prevent mats. Increasing to daily brushing during seasonal shedding is generally a good idea. Bathing is on an as-needed basis.
In addition to coat care, you will also need to care for your Bernese Springer Spaniel’s nails, ears, and teeth. Cutting your dog’s nails monthly is usually enough to keep them from growing too long, but you may need to trim them more often if they grow quickly. Also, checking weekly and carefully cleaning your dog’s ears as needed can help prevent ear infections.
Because many dog owners don’t practice good dental care for dogs, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. But, it doesn’t have to be that way! Brushing your dog’s teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day can help prevent painful dental diseases and further complications from them later in life.
Bernese Springer Spaniels are energetic and playful dogs that can range from moderate to high energy. Daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity are usually sufficient for this dog. But, as long as it’s not too warm outside, they’ll likely be up for more activity if you are.
They’ll just be happy to be doing something with you. These dogs tend to be athletic and versatile, so don’t be afraid to try different activities with them like swimming with your dog, going on hikes, teaching them to play frisbee, going to the dog park, and more. You could discover a new favorite activity!
A Bernese Springer Spaniel can stand 18-28 inches tall and weigh 40-110 pounds. Although the goal is to have a dog that is around 20 inches tall and weighs around 50 pounds, there is always the potential they will take after their Berner parent and be a bit larger. It’s not a guarantee, but meeting the mother dog in-person can give you an idea of what size to expect in a Bernese Springer Spaniel.
A Bernese Springer Spaniel generally lives 8-14 years.