Sussex Spaniel Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Sussex Spaniel is a rare, rich golden-liver gundog, low and long, with a thoughtful expression and an unusual habit of giving tongue on a scent. It is steady and affectionate, and it appeals to those who want something a little different.

Origins and appearance

The breed is named for the English county of Sussex, where it was developed to work heavy, brambly cover at a methodical pace. Sussex Spaniels are low, sturdy and rectangular, with a broad head, a soft, wrinkled brow and long, silky ears. The coat is abundant, flat or slightly wavy and a distinctive golden liver that fades slightly at the tips.

Temperament

Sussex Spaniels are calm, friendly and devoted. They enjoy family life, often with a clownish streak, and are usually good with children and other dogs. They can be reserved with strangers. They have a serious side and may sulk if scolded. They bay or bark when they find a scent or want attention, and many dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need moderate daily exercise, such as a steady walk of about an hour and some play. They are not fast, but they have good stamina and love sniffing and following a trail. They enjoy a garden and swimming. Avoid hard exercise in heat, and keep puppies from over-exercising.

Training

They are intelligent but can be slow to mature and independent. Use treats, patience and short, varied sessions. Gentle methods work best. Early socialization helps with reserve. House training can take time. They are not always quick to respond to recall, because the nose leads.

Coat and grooming

The profuse coat needs brushing several times a week, with special attention to the ears and legs, plus a trim of the feet and feathering. See cocker spaniel grooming guide. Clean the ears weekly and trim nails. They shed moderately.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Heart conditions, such as pulmonic stenosis
• Obesity. See dog obesity risks
• Intervertebral disc disease. See intervertebral disc disease in dogs
• Hypothyroidism
• Eye problems

Living with a Sussex Spaniel

They suit a house with a garden or active apartment dwellers. Their voice may bother close neighbors. They love company and routine.

A typical day

A Sussex enjoys a comfortable routine: a morning walk, a snooze while the family works, a play or scent session in the afternoon and a calm evening. They are often content to follow you around the house. Because they can gain weight easily, keep meals measured and treats small.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are sturdy, playful and slow-maturing. Begin socialization, ear and coat handling and basic training. Avoid heavy exercise and stairs while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for grooming, ear care and vet care. Insurance may help. See dog pet insurance guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cool weather but need shade in heat. They travel well and enjoy outdoor trips at a gentle pace.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include overfeeding, skipping ear care, long absences and trusting off-leash recall.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about heart and hip testing, the parents' temperaments and the breeder's approach to socialization. Waiting lists are common because litters are scarce.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Sussex suits patient owners who want a rare, calm, golden spaniel and accept some stubbornness. It may not suit those wanting a fast athlete. For a better-known spaniel, see the Clumber Spaniel.

The takeaway

Sussex Spaniels are golden, loyal and vocal, and they need weight control, ear care and company.