Breed History:

The Sussex Spaniel originated in Sussex, England, in the late 18th century. It was developed by Mr. Augustus Elliott Fuller, who wanted a spaniel that could work slowly and methodically through dense underbrush. The breed was designed for flushing and retrieving game, particularly pheasant and partridge, in rough terrain.

Despite its usefulness, the Sussex nearly went extinct after World War II. Its revival is credited largely to breeder Joy Freer, who preserved the breed with just a handful of dogs. Though still rare today, the Sussex is recognized by the AKC and the Kennel Club and retains its traditional role as a hunting companion and gentle house dog.

If you want to learn about other spaniel breeds, check out our page "Different Spaniel Dog Breeds". 

Height: 33-38 cm

Weight: 18-23 kg

Size – Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–15 years

Breed Appearance:

The Sussex Spaniel is a sturdy, muscular, and well-balanced dog with a long, low-set body.

The breed commonly features:

• Broad, well-proportioned head
• Square muzzle
• Hazel eyes
• Long, feathered ears
• Deep chest
• Thick, muscular neck
• Strong, well-developed limbs
• Moderately short, feathered tail

Its dense, flat or slightly wavy coat is weather-resistant, with feathering on the ears, chest, legs, and tail.

Common coat colours include:

• Golden liver

The breed's rich golden liver coat and substantial build reflect its heritage as a hardworking flushing and retrieving dog.

Breed Type – Sporting Dog:

The Sussex Spaniel is an intelligent, calm, and dependable sporting breed.

It is known for being:

• Loyal
• Gentle
• Intelligent
• Calm
• Affectionate
• Determined

The breed forms strong bonds with its family and generally gets along well with children, strangers, and other pets when properly socialised.

Training:

The Sussex Spaniel is intelligent and willing to learn.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation
• Positive reinforcement methods
• Basic obedience training
• Recall training
• Leash manners
• Consistent leadership

The breed excels in:

• Hunting
• Retrieving
• Tracking
• Obedience
• Rally
• Companion activities

Structured, reward-based training helps the breed become a confident and well-mannered companion.

Health & Care:

The Sussex Spaniel is generally healthy but may be prone to several health concerns, including:

• Hip dysplasia
• Obesity
• Intervertebral disc disease
• Ear infections
• Pulmonic stenosis
• Heart disease
  

Routine veterinary care, responsible breeding, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight help support long-term health.

Living Conditions:

The Sussex Spaniel adapts well to homes where it receives regular exercise, training, and close family companionship.

Ideal environments include:

• Houses with secure yards
• Rural or suburban homes
• Active families
• Experienced or committed first-time dog owners

The breed prefers living indoors with its family and is not suited to prolonged isolation.

Exercise:

The Sussex Spaniel has moderate exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Daily walks
• Hiking
• Retrieving games
• Obedience training
• Scent work
• Mental enrichment activities

Regular physical activity and mental stimulation are essential to maintain the breed's physical and mental well-being.

Grooming:

The dense coat requires moderate maintenance.

• Brushing two to three times per week
• More frequent brushing during seasonal shedding
• Occasional bathing
• Routine ear cleaning and nail trimming
• Regular dental care

The breed sheds moderately throughout the year and benefits from consistent coat maintenance to prevent tangles.

Advantages:

• Loyal and affectionate family companion
• Calm and gentle temperament
• Intelligent and easy to train
• Excellent scenting and hunting abilities
• Good with children and other pets
• Adaptable to a variety of family environments

Disadvantages:

• Requires regular exercise and mental stimulation
• Needs consistent grooming and ear care
• Prone to back, joint, and heart conditions
• Can become overweight without proper diet and exercise
• May bark or vocalise while working or when excited
• Can develop separation anxiety if left alone frequently