04/09/2025
The Spaniel—A Born Hunting Machine! 🐾🎯
Did you know that field-bred Spaniels are hardwired to quarter, seek, and flush game? These dogs don’t need to be taught what they were born to do—they just need the right training and leadership to unlock their full potential.
🔹 But here’s the catch—it’s all about genetics. While show-bred Spaniels may have flowy coats and graceful gaits, they often lack the drive, endurance, and intensity needed to work all day afield. If you’re looking for a true upland hunting or competition dog, then a field-bred Spaniel is the only way to go!
At QK Dogs, we see a variety of working Spaniels, including:
✅ Springer Spaniels & English Cocker Spaniels – The most common, known for their high drive, endurance, and flushing power.
✅ Boykin Spaniels – The American original, bred for turkey, duck, and upland hunting.
✅ Clumber & Sussex Spaniels – The "gentleman’s hunting dogs"—slower, methodical, yet highly effective in the field.
✅ Other Spaniel Breeds – Welsh, Irish Water, Field, and American Water Spaniels, each with unique strengths.
🐕 The Difference Between Cockers & Springers
Originally, in England, if a Spaniel weighed under 32 lbs, it was called a Cocker; if over 32 lbs, it was a Springer. Over time, these became distinct breeds with specific hunting styles and genetics.
👉 Cockers – Pint-sized, full of drive, and favored down South as quail wagon dogs over pointing breeds.
👉 Springers – Larger, with powerful endurance, excelling in spaniel trials and thick cover hunting.
💡 Thinking About a Spaniel for Hunting? Do Your Research!
If you want a true hunting or competition dog, look for proven genetics, health certifications, and reputable breeders who prioritize workability, temperament, and biddability.
🔥 Have a Spaniel in the field? Drop a photo below and tell us what you hunt with them! 👇
Passionately Living Life Afield 🐾 Quinebaug Kennels is located in Canterbury, CT among the hills of Northeastern Connecticut.
