Quick Answer:
Springer Spaniels need professional grooming every 6-8 weeks, costing $45-$75 per session. Their double coat features distinctive feathering on the ears, chest, legs, and belly that requires brushing 3-4 times per week. The ears need special attention as they are prone to matting and infections.
Springer Spaniel Coat Overview
The English Springer Spaniel has a medium-length double coat with a flat or wavy outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat. Their most distinctive feature is the feathering — longer hair that grows on the ears, chest, legs, and belly. This feathering gives the breed its elegant appearance but is also where most grooming challenges arise.
Springers typically weigh 40-50 pounds and come in liver and white or black and white. Field-bred Springers tend to have less coat than show-bred dogs, making them somewhat easier to maintain. Regardless of type, all Springers need consistent grooming to keep their coat healthy and tangle-free.
Their grooming needs are similar to the Cocker Spaniel, though Springers are larger and typically have slightly less profuse feathering.
| Area | Coat Type | Brushing Frequency | Mat Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body | Flat/wavy double coat | 2-3x per week | Low |
| Ears | Long feathering | Every other day | Very high |
| Legs & Belly | Feathering | 3-4x per week | High |
| Chest | Feathering | 3-4x per week | Moderate |
Step-by-Step Home Grooming Routine
Step 1: Brushing the Feathering
Start with the feathered areas as these are most prone to matting. Use a slicker brush on the ear feathering, working from the tips toward the base. Then use a metal comb to check for any remaining tangles. Move to the leg feathering, belly, and chest. Springer ears are magnets for burrs, seeds, and debris — check them after every outdoor adventure.
Step 2: Body Coat Brushing
Brush the body coat with a bristle brush or a pin brush to remove loose undercoat and distribute natural oils. During shedding season, use an undercoat rake to remove excess undercoat. Brush in the direction of hair growth, paying attention to where the body coat meets the feathering.
Regular brushing of the feathered areas prevents painful matting in Springer Spaniels
Step 3: Bathing
Bathe every 4-6 weeks using a quality dog shampoo. Always brush out all tangles before bathing — water tightens mats and makes them nearly impossible to remove. Work shampoo into the dense undercoat and feathering thoroughly. Rinse completely and follow with a conditioner on the feathered areas to reduce future tangling.
Step 4: Trimming and Tidying
Between professional grooms, you can tidy up with thinning shears. Trim excess hair from between the paw pads to prevent debris collection and slipping on hard floors. Neaten the ear edges and trim any scraggly feathering that is collecting dirt. Avoid cutting the feathering too short as it is part of the breed's character.
Step 5: Nails, Ears, and Teeth
Trim nails every 2-3 weeks. Springer Spaniel ears are long and heavy, reducing air circulation inside the ear canal. Clean ears weekly with a vet-approved solution and dry thoroughly. This breed is highly prone to ear infections, so ear hygiene is critical. Brush teeth 2-3 times per week.
Springer Spaniel Grooming Cost
| Service | Cost Range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Full groom (bath, trim & tidy) | $45-$75 | Every 6-8 weeks |
| Hand-stripping session | $65-$100 | 2-3x per year |
| Bath & brush only | $35-$55 | Between full grooms |
| Nail trim | $10-$18 | Every 2-3 weeks |
Expect to spend $360-$650 per year on professional Springer Spaniel grooming. Show-line Springers with heavier coats cost more due to additional time. For more details, see our dog grooming cost guide.
When to See a Professional Groomer
- Every 6-8 weeks for trimming: Professional shaping of the coat and feathering keeps your Springer looking neat
- Hand-stripping: For show dogs or owners who prefer a natural coat texture
- Ear problems: A groomer can thoroughly clean ears and trim excess ear hair
- Matted feathering: Severe mats in the ears or legs should be handled professionally
- Seasonal coat blow: A professional de-shed treatment during heavy shedding seasons saves time at home
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How often should a Springer Spaniel be groomed?▼
Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is recommended. At home, brush feathered areas 3-4 times per week and the body coat 2-3 times per week.
How much does Springer Spaniel grooming cost?▼
A full groom costs $45-$75 per session. Hand-stripping costs $65-$100. Annual grooming costs range from $360-$650.
Should a Springer Spaniel be hand-stripped or clipped?▼
Show Springers are hand-stripped, while pet Springers can be clipped for easier maintenance. Clipping softens the coat over time but is more affordable and practical for most owners.
How do you prevent matting in Springer Spaniel ears?▼
Brush ear feathering every other day with a slicker brush and metal comb. Use detangling spray on stubborn tangles and check ears after outdoor activities for burrs and debris.
Do Springer Spaniels shed a lot?▼
Springers are moderate shedders year-round with heavier shedding in spring and fall. Regular brushing and professional de-shedding treatments help manage the seasonal coat blow.
The Bottom Line
Springer Spaniels need professional grooming every 6-8 weeks, costing $45-$75 per session. Their beautiful feathered coat requires consistent home maintenance, especially on the ears, legs, and belly. Regular ear care is essential as this breed is prone to ear infections due to their long, heavy ear flaps.
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