How to Look After Your Springer Spaniel’s Coat

Springer Spaniels are energetic dogs that are friendly and love to play. They have long, hanging ears and a moderately long coat that can be black or liver with white, blue or liver roan, and tricolor.

Equipment Needed

Slicker brush

Slicker brushes have thin bristles and are great for keeping your pet’s coat free of mats and tangles. They come in different types, so make sure to choose one that’s right for your pet’s age or breed. For example, a soft-tipped slicker brush is recommended for puppies because their skin is delicate.

Pin Brush

The Pin Brush is excellent for general grooming of small dog breeds. Pin Brushes helps to lift out loose hair and debris. It can also be used to fluff the coat by brushing against the direction of hair growth.

Comb

Another essential grooming tool is the comb. Many pet owners have combs at home, and they’re suitable for all long-haired dogs or cats. After using a slicker brush, combing through a pet’s fur is a great final step to make sure there are no knots or tangles left.

Grooming Your Springer Spaniel at Home

Springer Spaniels need regular grooming to prevent their coats from becoming matted. As they are energetic, outdoorsy dogs, their coats are often subjected to water and mud, so it’s important to establish a regular brushing routine to remove any dirt and tangles from their coat that could worsen or turn into mats if left unattended.

The English Springer Spaniel has fine flat hair with long fine feathering. Grooming is suggested for 4 – 6-week intervals to clean ears, clip nails, check anal glands and insure the coat and skin are in healthy condition.

Frequent brushing helps to eliminate any mats and tangles that have occurred. Choose a slicker brush or dog comb to gently work out tangles and small mats in your dog’s coat.

Bathing

When it’s time for a bath, consider which types of shampoo and conditioner you use. Some may be more suitable for thick coats than others, while some don’t work well with waterproof coats.

After bath time, make sure your springer is dry before brushing them out to lessen potential tangling issues. Many dogs enjoy the nice warmth of a blow dryer, as long as it’s at a medium to low setting.

Common Issues with Springer Spaniel’s Coat

• Parasites: If you’re not treating your dog regularly with flea and tick medication, it’s time to start. The scratching that parasites’ bites can cause can open up sores if left untreated, leading to all sorts of flakes, sores, and even flea- or tick-borne disease.
• Allergies: Both environmental and edible triggers may be the culprit. Environmental allergies are triggered by contact with the offending substance, such as pollen, mold, dust mites, a tree or bush. Food allergies often manifest in the face, feet, and ears. These allergies may be developed over time. Your vet will likely recommend some sort of elimination diet to suss out the cause.