Understanding Health Considerations for the English Springer Spaniel

Quick answer

English Springer Spaniels are wonderful companions known for their energy and loyalty. Like all breeds, they have specific health tendencies that owners should be aware of. By performing regular home exams and tracking your dog's baseline health, you can identify changes early and seek appropriate veterinary care when necessary.

Phosphofructokinase Deficiency

This is well recognised in the breed. Phosphofructokinase is an enzyme that helps your dog process sugar for energy. When this enzyme is missing or deficient, the body struggles to fuel its muscles and red blood cells properly.

At home, you might notice your dog seems unusually lethargic or lacks the typical stamina expected of a Springer Spaniel. You may see pale or yellowish gums, which can indicate that red blood cells are breaking down prematurely. In some cases, the urine may appear dark or discolored. A veterinarian will typically perform blood tests to check for anemia and measure enzyme activity. If you notice your dog is suddenly unable to keep up with their usual activities or appears weak, this requires prompt evaluation to rule out metabolic issues.

Ventricular Septal Defect

This is a recognised tendency in the breed. A ventricular septal defect is a hole in the wall that separates the two lower chambers of the heart. This opening allows blood to flow between the chambers, which forces the heart to work harder than it should.

Owners often do not see obvious signs at home until the defect causes the heart to struggle. You might notice your dog breathing faster than normal while resting or appearing to tire very quickly during exercise. Your veterinarian will listen for a heart murmur during routine physical exams. If a murmur is detected, an ultrasound of the heart, known as an echocardiogram, is the standard test to confirm the presence and size of the defect. It is important not to wait if you notice your dog struggling to catch their breath or exhibiting a persistent cough.

Third-Degree Atrioventricular Block

This is a recognised tendency in the breed. The heart relies on an electrical signal to coordinate its beats. In this condition, the signals from the upper chambers of the heart fail to reach the lower chambers, leading to a very slow or irregular heartbeat. The breed is also predisposed to developing persistent atrial standstill, where the upper chambers of the heart stop contracting effectively.

At home, you might observe your dog appearing unusually sluggish, dizzy, or even experiencing fainting spells. Because the heart rate is often dangerously low, the dog may simply lack the energy to move around as they usually do. A vet will perform an electrocardiogram to map the electrical activity of the heart. This test reveals the disconnect between the chambers and confirms the diagnosis. Because this condition directly impacts the heart's ability to pump blood to the brain, any sign of fainting or extreme weakness must be addressed without delay.