How to Groom a Sussex Spaniel

Sussex Spaniels are large, sturdy dogs with a calm disposition. They are passionate about the hunt and sometimes bay when hunting. They are the only spaniel that is known to do this. Sussex Spaniels have a coat that is either flat or a bit wavy and is golden-liver colored. Much of the lower body is feathered on this breed. They need a full grooming every 8 to 12 weeks.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Slicker brush
• Pin brush
• Steel comb
• Scissors

1. Brush the thick coat with slicker brushes, pin brushes and steel combs. Brush regularly to prevent tangling of the fine coat.

2. Trim stay hairs on the feet and between the pads of the feet with scissors. Trim hairs below the ears, which can grow excessively long. Leave the small tufts of hair which grow between the toes.

3. Check the ears regularly and clean them to prevent wax buildup. If you don't monitor the condition of the ears, an ear infection or inflammation can develop. Pluck any long hairs you find growing in the ear canals.

4. Check the teeth regularly when your Sussex Spaniel is a puppy to ensure that new teeth aren't pushing older ones out of the way, since this can result in crooked and unhealthy teeth.

Tips & Warnings

• The Sussex Spaniel has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.
• Created in Sussex, England, this breed was most likely the result of crossbreeding between different spaniel and hound breeds.
• Never shave the throat of a show dog.
• Sussex Spaniels are susceptible to ear infections. They also tend to gain weight quickly so don't overfeed them. Other fairly common afflictions which affect this breed are intervertebral disc syndrome, otitis exerna, heart murmur and enlarged heart.