Definition

Noun: A medium-sized breed of gun dog, characterized by a compact build, floppy ears, and a typically black-and-white coat (though liver and white is also common). It is known for its energy, intelligence, and proficiency in flushing, or "springing," game from cover.

Usage

The term "English Springer Spaniel" is used as a singular noun to refer to an individual dog of this breed or to the breed as a whole. It is typically capitalized as it is a proper noun referring to a specific breed name.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The English Springer Spaniel eagerly retrieved the duck from the water.
  • She decided to adopt an English Springer Spaniel because of the breed's friendly nature and high energy.
  • English Springer Spaniels are often used as working dogs in field trials.

Advanced Usage

• "Springer" as a Short Form: In informal contexts, especially among hunters and dog enthusiasts, the breed is often referred to simply as a "Springer."
  • My Springer is an excellent bird dog.

Variants and Related Words

• Springer Spaniel: A common shortened form of the breed name.
• Field-bred Springer Spaniel: Refers to lines bred specifically for hunting and field work, often with slightly different physical traits than "show-bred" lines.
• Show-bred Springer Spaniel: Refers to lines bred for conformation dog shows.

Synonyms

• Springer: (Informal) A common shorthand for the breed.
• Springer Spaniel: A standard abbreviated name.

Related Phrases

• Flushing dog: Describes the primary hunting role of the English Springer Spaniel, which is to flush (spring) game birds from their hiding places.
• Gun dog: A category of dog breeds to which the English Springer Spaniel belongs, trained to assist hunters.

Noun

1. a breed having typically a black-and-white coat