Seven Jobs for Springer Spaniel Working Dogs

When you mention springer spaniel working dogs, many people think of the traditional definition of a working dog as one which is used in the field - that is, for flushing and retrieving game. Springer spaniels are probably the most versatile of breeds for this task, as they can work very well across water. Certainly, labs can work in water too, but I believe the springer is best in this respect. However, this breed works in many other ways too, not just in the field - they even work in wildlife protection.

Rescue Dogs

Traditionally, many organisations (especially police forces) have used German Shepherd dogs for searching. However, this breed can make rescued people apprehensive. So, springer spaniels are now being trained for this purpose.

Explosives Search

Springer spaniels are used extensively as sniffer dogs in security operations - on the front line; also for pre-event security searching - for example where senior politicians will be in attendance.

Drug Searches

At harbours and airports particularly, springer spaniel sniffer dogs are widely used for detecting illegal drugs. The air cargo traffic has been increasing at a high rate, particularly high value/low volume cargoes - and drugs fit well; air freight also removes the need to dupe genuine travellers to carry it, which increases risk. Whether it is people and their luggage, or freight, the springers can sniff it all.

Dead Body Search

Good sniffer dogs can detect normal human scent easilyat a hundred metres and more (depending on wind speed and direction), but they can also detect the gases escaping from decomposing flesh undergorund.

Underwater Bodies

In Scotland, a springer spaniel is used to locate dead bodies underwater. Apparently, the decomposition gases can be detected on the surface of the river by the springer spaniel, Barra.

Wildlife Protection

In Australia, the New South Wales Parks Department has a springer spaniel sniffer dog which has been trained to detect Small Penguins. The breed of penguin is under threat as the number of breeding pairs has fallen, and the dog, named 'Eco', is used to locate and track the penguins so that an accurate count of their population can be kept.

Preservation of Ancient Temples

In South Korea, ancient monuments - many of which are made of timber - are threatened by termite attack. Three springer spaniel sniffer dogs are used to detect termite nests and potential infestation.

Why Are Springer Spaniels Used as Sniffer Dogs?

Springers have one of the best 'sense of smell' of any breed, able to detect one billionth of a gram of explosives or drugs. With a very high workrate they cover ground very quickly. They are compact in size they quickly get into nooks and crannies in ships and planes that would be inaccessible to larger breeds. Compare a springer to a bloodhound!

It's amazing isn't it, what these marvellous dogs are used for. And when you see the films of them in action, it's clear they love their work!

Phil has owned springer spaniels for many years - both Welsh and English, and is a devoted fan of the breed. Watch a video of these great working dogs and get much more springer spaniel news and info at => www.springerspanieladvice.com