The Sussex Spaniel was developed in Sussex County, England as a working spaniel. He was used there since the 18th century as a field dog, with his job being to force his way under low and dense undergrowth to flush out game. The breed was among the first ten breeds to be recognized and admitted to the Stud Book when the American Kennel Club was formed in 1884.
In appearance and character, today's Sussex Spaniel is essentially unchanged from those of the 19th century. He is long, low to the ground, massive, energetic and strong. He has a cheerful and affectionate temperament but with a somber and serious expression.
The Sussex Spaniel is a loyal, devoted dog who enjoys constant companionship. If raised with them, the Sussex is also generally very good with children and other pets. The Sussex is an active breed who enjoys many sports and activities, including conformation shows, obedience trials, hunting, tracking, agility, as well as working as a Therapy Dog.
His coat is flat or slightly wavy, fine in texture, abundant and with an undercoat that is weather resistant. His colour is a rich golden liver with golden shading toward the tips of the hairs and is unique to the breed.
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Health Issues:
The Sussex Spaniel has relatively few health concerns with the most serious being heart related. In addition, Hypothyroidism, prostate disease, deafness and some eye problems do exist. Hip Dysplasia is fairly common in the breed but generally not debilitating.
If you are considering the adoption of a Sussex Spaniel puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
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Breed Standards
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AKC SUSSEX SPANIEL VIDEO
22 Min. Video Edition, Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com
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Grooming Information:
- Grooming — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.
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Training Resources:
- Training — For information on training your Sussex Spaniel, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
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Additional Information:
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes information on several dog sports and activities as well as listings of non-breed specific clubs from across Canada. (Note: For breed specific clubs, see the Breed Clubs section.)
- Working Dogs — Dedicated to the working dog. This section includes tributes, information on various dog jobs, and listings of organizations from across Canada.
