To determine if a Springer Spaniel is purebred, you can observe several key physical characteristics. These include their coat, forequarters, hindquarters, and neck. Purebred Springer Spaniels should have a coat of even color, without mismarkings, and of a moderate, short length. Their forequarters should have a straight alignment, with the elbows positioned below the shoulders and close to the body. The hindquarters should be strong and well-boned. Finally, their neck should be of moderate length, smoothly joining the shoulders, and the rib cage should extend into the body.
Coat
The coat is one of the methods to identify a purebred Springer Spaniel. Purebred Springers have distinct coat colors, typically black, white, or liver, in a tricolor pattern, or with black or liver markings on a white background, or a mix of black and liver. The coat is generally of moderate length, usually falling above the knees.
Forequarters
A purebred Springer Spaniel has well-defined shoulders that are closely joined to the body. The upper arm and shoulder blade should form a near-90 degree angle. The elbows should be situated directly below the shoulders, close to the body. When the Springer moves, the forequarters should appear to be perpendicular to the ground.
Hindquarters
As a typical gundog, the Springer Spaniel's hindquarters should be very powerful when in motion. You can observe the strength of their knee joints; the stronger they are, the more likely the dog is a purebred. The hindquarters should be well-boned and solid.
Neck
The Springer’s neck is of moderate length, and when the head is held up, the neck should connect smoothly to the shoulders. The backline should be straight, and the chest should extend down to the elbow. Additionally, the rib cage is quite long, extending towards the middle of the body.
How Much Does a Springer Spaniel Cost?
Pet-level Springer Spaniels, typically kept as family pets, generally do not require high standards for bloodlines or appearance. Consequently, their prices are usually more affordable. Currently, the market price for a pet-level Springer puppy starts at around 1500 RMB. Although you might find puppies priced below 1000 RMB, their appearance and quality may be inferior, and it is not recommended to purchase them.
Springer Spaniel puppies with superior bloodlines tend to inherit better genes from their parents, often resulting in a better appearance and more stable temperament, making them better able to adapt to diverse environments and interact well with people. Therefore, bloodline puppies usually command a higher price. If you want to buy a purebred Springer Spaniel, it’s advisable to purchase from professional and reputable breeders. This ensures both bloodline and quality assurance. In such cases, a Springer Spaniel puppy will typically cost over 3500 RMB. Purebred Springer Spaniel puppies may cost several hundred RMB more than their mixed-breed counterparts.