The Sussex Spaniel is one of the oldest
breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
The Sussex is also one of the oldest spaniel breeds and one of the rarer
spaniels in the United States. The Sussex spaniel was first used as a gun dog in
the early eighteen century as a field dog. During the early 1880’s, the
reputation of the Sussex spaniel as an excellent field companion was well known
on the estates of England. The breed originated in Sussex County England and was
an invaluable flushing and retrieving spaniel in the densely forested hillsides
of the England. The short legs, long low massive body made the Sussex spaniel
ideal for working through the dense underbrush. The Sussex spaniel is a long low
dog of massive appearance with a tail that never seems to stop. The Sussex has a
somber and serious expression but the rich golden liver color of the coat always
attracts attention especially shimmering in the sunlight. The Sussex spaniel has
been given the nickname of “the merry little spaniel” because of the continual
tail action he possesses particularly when working.
In the United States, the Sussex spaniel
has never gained much attention working in the field. Due to his massive body
and short legs, he cannot keep up with the speed of some of the more popular
flushing and retrieving spaniels. However, because of his “merry” attitude and
incredible loving personality, the Sussex Spaniel has gained a dedicated and
devoted following.
Living with a Sussex is unlike living
with most sporting dogs. Due to the more mellow nature and more dominant
temperament, the Sussex is more of a “working” dog than a “sporting” dog in his
personality. Thus, the devotion and attention one receives when working
alongside of a “working dog” is felt with the Sussex spaniel. Hunting alongside
of a Sussex is an incredible experience as long as one is not out to win the
race! The Sussex is very methodical in his approach and very detailed in his
delivery to his hunter companion. The Sussex also excels at living in the home
as a companion with his mellow attitude and decreased energy level compared to
most of the sporting breeds of dogs. The Sussex is a great all
