Sussex Spaniel
The slow, golden gentleman of the hedgerows — rare, low-slung, and quietly cheerful.
Vital stats
| Size | Small-medium · 38–41 cm |
| Weight | 16–20 kg |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 years |
| Energy | Moderate — 40–60 min/day |
| Shedding | Moderate, year-round |
| Coat | Wavy double coat · golden liver only |
| Group | Sporting · FCI №127 / AKC |
Breed traits
Friendliness
Care
Mind
Temperament
Bred to work dense Sussex cover at a walking pace, giving tongue so hunters could follow the sound, this spaniel is unhurried where its cousins are frantic. At home that translates to a placid, sociable companion with a surprisingly deep voice, happiest pottering behind you from room to room.
Habits & quirks
Gives tongue
Uniquely for a spaniel, the Sussex was bred to bay on scent — and still offers commentary.
The stately potter
Moves through life at hedgerow pace; hurrying is for other breeds.
Frowning on purpose
The heavy brows give a permanently thoughtful, slightly disapproving expression.
Shadow at knee height
Long and low, it follows you everywhere — usually half a step behind.
Care
| Ears | The long, heavy ears trap moisture — check and clean them weekly to prevent infections. |
| Feeding | A slow-paced breed gains weight easily; measure meals and go steady with treats. |
| Exercise | Two moderate walks a day with sniffing time suit it better than hard running. |
| Grooming | Brush the wavy coat a couple of times a week and trim the feathering to keep it tidy. |
Common questions
Are Sussex Spaniels rare?
Very — the breed nearly vanished after WWII and remains one of the least-registered AKC breeds. Expect a waiting list from the small band of dedicated breeders.
Are Sussex Spaniels good family dogs?
Yes — they're gentle, steady and affectionate with children. Their calmer pace makes them easier to live with than many spaniels, though they still like a daily outing.
Do Sussex Spaniels bark a lot?
They're more vocal than most spaniels — the breed was designed to bay while hunting. Training helps, but expect a dog with opinions and a deep voice.