Ears
Due to the design of the Spinger's ear, they can easily become infected usually through being in and out of the water all of the time and the ear being unable to dry out properly. Signs to look out for are constant shaking of head and scratching of the ear, also head tilted to one side. Also check for a nasty smell inside the ear. Go to your vet for treatment
Anal Glands
Very common problem with most dogs, but seemingly more so in Springers. The anal glands become blocked and the dog will drag his bottom along the floor or bite at his rear end. This can be very irritating for the dog and if ignored can form an abscess. You can empty these glands yourself, by taking a large piece of cotton wool under the dogs tail. Gently squeezing the dog's bottom upward and together, but then not always easy, so ideally this is far better to be performed by a Veterinary Surgeon who obviously has the correct technique. Also, make sure your dog has plenty of fibre in his diet to help prevent the problem.
Hip Dysplasia
Sometimes considered to be of a hereditary nature, so if this is diagnosed it is advisable not to breed from the affected dog. This complaint can also be caused from over exercising puppies when their bones are not fully developed. If you see any form of lameness or peculiarities see your vet immediately for an x-ray.
Coprophagy
This is a condition where your dog eats his own poo! Not always easy to correct, but many people say give the dog more charcoal biscuits in his diet, also mix pineapple rings into his food, as often when the dog poos he still sees it as food due to not being properly digested and therefore the pineapple being very acidic, may well put him off!!
Grass Seeds
Always check in-between your dog's toes for grass seeds, also around the ears. These seeds, if left undetected can sometimes burrow into the skin and cause many problems.
Ticks
These can be caught if your dog has been in any fields where sheep may have been at some time. They attach themselves to a dog, anywhere on the body and suck at the blood. They become quite large. Do not pull them off as it is easy to leave the tick's head still burrowing into the dog's skin, which can lead to serious infection. Spray a good flea spray directly onto the tick and leave. The tick will eventually shrivel up as the spray will eventually kill and will then fall off the dogs coat. These ticks can also attach themselves to a dog, whilst he runs through bracken.
Stings
Usually caused by wasps and bees. If you are aware if where the dog has been stung, apply a saline solution or antihistamine cream. Some dogs have a bad reaction to stings and the area can swell up virtually immediately. If this does occur, go to your vet immediately, particularly if the sting is in the mouth or throat.
Poisoning
As with most Spingers, they will eat any thing, no matter how disgusting! Sometimes, however, it can cause problems. If you suspect something sinister, encourage him to vomit by given him a strong solution of salt and water - go to your vet immediately. Always make sure your dog has his annual boosters and that the dog is wormed every 4 months (Drontal Plus) being a good worming tablet, available from your Veterinary Surgeon. As with all these "Common Ailments" if you are concerned about your dogs health, do not hesitate to seek professional advice immediately from your vet.
Behavioural Problems
There can be many different ways a dog shows behavioural problems. Most can be overcome with advice and patience on your part. Sometimes found in Rescue Dogs, where their previous routine has been disrupted, you must realise each dog needs time to adjust to their new environment and need to feel loved and secure. Some problems can be sorted out within a few days, others may take a little longer. Whatever your problem please telephone 01257 464130 and we will help in whatever way we can.
Exercise
Most Springers need love and plenty of exercise. You can take your dog on a very long walk, where he is running like crazy. Come home and your dog settles down for a nap, but shake his lead and he will jump up and be ready to do it all again. Nevertheless, always be aware of your dog's age and adjust his exercise accordingly. The same also applies to a puppy's exercise - Don't over exercise as this may lead to problems further on.
Grooming
Regular grooming is essential. Always make sure the ears are combed regularly to prevent "mats" occurring, particularly underneath the ear. This area is prone to knots. If your dog has long feathery hair, make sure they are brushed regularly enabling you to get rid of any "debris they may pick up on their walk. Regularly grooming will make your dogs coat look shiny and good and most importantly they will feel good. A good tip for a shiny healthy coat and very good for their joints is Cod Liver Oil. A teaspoon full on their meal daily.