MyDogBreeds
Both Smithfield and English Springer Spaniel are originated from United Kingdom. Both Smithfield and English Springer Spaniel are having almost same height. Both Smithfield and English Springer Spaniel are of same weight. Both Smithfield and English Springer Spaniel has same life span. Both Smithfield and English Springer Spaniel has almost same litter size. Smithfield requires Moderate maintenance. But English Springer Spaniel requires Low maintenance
The Smithfield is also known as the Smithfield, Smithy or Tasmanian Smithfield and is a herding dog found in Australia but originating in the UK. There is also the possibility that there was an Australian dog bred at a place known as Smithfield, near Texas which is just inside the Queensland border.
It is thought by some that the Smithfield is extinct. The dog was first introduced to the Land Down Under in colonial times.
The Smithfield isn’t recognised by the Canine Councils, but in 1862 the first Dog Show was held in Australia.
The English Springer Spaniel is one of many gun dog breeds that flush and retrieve. They descended from the Shropshire Spaniels and Norfolk Spaniels. The English Springer Spaniel is somewhat similar to the Welsh Springer Spaniel and believe it or not they are also closely related to the English Cocker Spaniel. In the last century the cockers and springers came from the same parents. The larger dogs flushed game and made game “spring” from the brush while the smaller dogs – the “cockers” would hunt woodcock. Eventually through specific breeding, the UKC of England recognized the “springers” as a separate breed.
Sydenham Edwards, in 1801, proposed that the spaniels be divided into the Springing or Hawking Spaniel and the Cocking or Cocker Spaniel. From this point on there was a flourish in the development of spaniel breeds in the 19th century. They were usually named for the county in which they were founded or after the individual who developed them. In 1902, the English Springer Spaniel was officially recognized as its own breed by the UKC. It was not until 1910 that the AKC recognized them as well.
The Smithfield is a medium to large sized dog, strong and square-bodied with a wedge shaped head. Many people liken his looks to a Bearded Collie.
He has a rough, medium length coat. The coat has different colors such as white, black, grey or reddish brown. The coat is shaggy and in fact they are often clipped to give them a groomed look and to prevent grass and burrs clinging to the coat.
The tail of the dog can either be a natural bobtail or it could have a longer tail. When the tail is long it is carried low with an upward turn at the tip. The ears are mostly floppy and held close to the head.
He stands at between 46 to 53cm in height and weighs between 16 and 25kg. A bright, alert expression is a distinctive feature of the Smithfield.
The Smithfield is an active, robust dog and they have well balanced, stable personalities. They are often described as being laid-back.
You won’t find any signs of shyness or aggression with these dogs and they are known to be gentle and calm. They are self confident and well adjusted and also hard working.
They are devoted and loving to their human family and are also intelligent. When they’ve been trained and socialized they make splendid family pets, wonderful with children, just loving to run and play. These are dogs you can rely on to be consistent in nature.
Among spaniels the English Springer is medium size and well compacted. Both the working dog and the show dog sport moderately long coats and a friendly tail. They both wear a gentle expression in their eyes. But there the commonality stops as the difference between the working English Springer Spaniel and the show line is greater in this breed than in any other. The gene pools have become almost separate over the last 70 years. If you put a field dog in the show ring they would not be able to compete. If you put a show line English Springer in the field, they would not have the stamina or speed for field trials.
The field line has a coarser coat and less pendulous ears. They may dock a few inches off the tail, and they are much scruffier than the show dogs. On the other hand, the show dogs have dewlaps, pendant ears and dangling flews. They are heavier and thicker than the field dog. They have long muzzles, not so prominent eyes and docked tails. The English Springer Spaniel stands tall and proud, coming from an ancient line of Spaniels
Those who have owned a Smithfield love them and say that once you’ve owned one, you’ll want another.
These easy going dogs have all the characteristics necessary to ensure a good pet, playmate and companion. They are devoted to their human family, and given the chance will become a very special 4-legged member of any family who appreciates the friendship a such a dog offers.
The English Springer Spaniel is a friendly dog who loves to please his people. They are great family dogs, easy-going and affectionate. In addition, they are attentive and alert which makes them such great hunting dogs. With exceptional speed and stamina, he needs activity to stimulate his body and brain. He is very intelligent. That intelligence can lead to stubbornness as well. He’d great with kids and good with other pets with perhaps the exception of cats. The breed is in love with water and will get in at any time.
These dogs enjoy exceptional good health and can reach between 10 and 14 years of age.
You have to be careful with your pet however, because there are quite a few common dog illnesses that can plague your pet, and we look at a few -
This is caused by a contagious virus. Infected dogs develop symptoms such as runny eyes, fever, coughing, vomiting and even seizures. Unfortunately this disease is often fatal. There is luckily a vaccine against it and it is highly recommended for your pet.
Also a very contagious disease which attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing fever, vomiting and diarrhea. It is often spread by contaminated stools and feeding utensils of dogs. Many dogs die from parvo but there is also a vaccine against it.
This is terrible for your pet and is a huge risk for dogs during Summer. Never leave your pet in a car unattended, especially on a hot day. Remember that stub-nosed dogs such as Boxers, Pugs, Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are more prone to respiratory problems and heat can be deadly for them.
Not an uncommon issue for most medium to smaller sized dogs. It can lead to lameness or arthritis.
Loss of vision due to a deterioration of the retina.
Clubs form in the retinal tissue and can lead to blindness.
The twisting or distention of the stomach that effects dogs with deep chests and can lead to death if not treated immediately.
The Smithfield has plenty of energy and loves nothing more than lots of games with the children. He will also look forward to a walk every day as well as other activities.
When it comes to grooming, you can save money by grooming your dog at home. Whether you have your pet’s hair cut or you leave it as is, get into the habit of brushing the fur at least twice a week. You can speak to your vet or groomer and get advice on what comb of brush to use on your Smithfield.
It you want to cut your pet’s hair, it is important to use the right equipment so you don't accidentally injure him. Certainly if you feel unsure about shaving your dog at home, leave this grooming aspect to the experts.
Check your pet’s eyes. They must be clear and bright. Check inside his mouth for bad teeth. Check inside his ears to make sure they aren’t red with infection.
Your Smithfield is relying on you to provide him with good food. For convenience, it is always a good idea to have a packet of the best dry kibble there is. Check out the label and make sure to buy one that has a good balance of vitamins and minerals.
Give him some tasty homemade food too. Remember to keep it plain and simple. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots are nutritious and tasty. This food can all be chopped up and small portions added to the dry kibble twice a week as a treat.
You’ll never have to worry about digestion problems with your dog. A little bit of raw meat can also go a long way to ensuring his skin stays healthy and free of skin infections. Ensure that he has a constant supply of fresh, cool water.
The English Springer Spaniel can gain weight easily and obesity is one of the biggest health issues for this breed. Feed them a high quality dry dog food. Working dogs need more energy and more calories than the inactive dog. An active member of the breed should have around 1353 calories every day in at least 2 meals if not 3. Do not feed a large meal before or after strenuous exercise as this can cause bloat.
In addition to the health issues listed above the English Springer Spaniel is also prone to:
This is a genetic condition where the body cannot use the carbohydrates it takes in and convert it to energy. This is identified as a blood disorder.
Causes seizures but can be treated with medications.
With longer , droopy ears, infection is always a possibility. Clean them regularly and keep them dry.
The working English Springer Spaniel is a very energetic dog requiring daily exercise and loving to play. They love walks and hikes. They can excel in competitions such as rally, agility, tracking, field and obedience.