Sussex Spaniel — breed guide
A low, long, golden-liver spaniel bred to bay while working heavy cover — one of the rarest British gundogs.
At a glance
- Group
- sporting
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 16–20 kg (35–44 lb)
- Life span
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Flat or slightly wavy golden-liver coat
Living with a Sussex Spaniel
- Moderate energy — a proper walk every day.
- Regular grooming — brushing a few times a week.
- Moderate shedding.
- Trainable with consistency.
- Barks readily.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Typically lives happily with a cat.
- Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Average cold tolerance.
Temperament
Calm · Cheerful · Stubborn · Baying
Health to watch
- Hip dysplasia
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Pulmonic stenosis
- Hypothyroidism
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Sussex Spaniel good with kids?
Generally yes. Sussex Spaniels are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Sussex Spaniel good with cats?
Usually yes. Sussex Spaniels typically settle well with a resident cat — introduce them slowly and give the cat a high perch and a way out of the room.
How much exercise does a Sussex Spaniel need?
A real walk every day, around 30–60 minutes.
Can a Sussex Spaniel handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a Sussex Spaniel's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.