Sporting breed Medium size 16-20 kg
Sussex Spaniel
A low, heavy-set spaniel that is mellow and affectionate but slow-maturing - a calm companion that still needs grooming and modest daily exercise.
Match with your household
See match detail → Quick overview
Medium
Size
16-20 kg · 33-38 cm
Moderate
Exercise needs
Moderate; daily walks are enough
Moderate
Alone-time tolerance
Tolerates normal routines well
Moderate
Training
Willing but can be stubborn
High
Coat care
Feathered coat needs regular brushing
Good
Fit with kids
Gentle and good with children
Good
Other pets
Generally sociable with other pets
Moderate
Health burden
Dental Disease, Hip Dysplasia, Chronic Ear Infections
The Sussex Spaniel typically weighs 16-20 kg, stands 33-38 cm, and lives 11-13 years.
Consider this breed if…
you want a calm, affectionate, low-key companion,
moderate daily walks fit your lifestyle better than sport,
you can keep up with regular brushing of a feathered coat,
you are patient with a slow-maturing, sometimes stubborn dog.
Do not consider this breed if…
you want a high-energy running or agility partner,
you cannot commit to regular coat care and ear cleaning,
you need a quick, biddable dog that trains instantly,
you want a common breed that is easy to find locally.
A typical day with a Sussex Spaniel
- 7:00 · MorningRelaxed 30-40 min walk with some sniffing
- 9:30 · MidmorningNaps and lounges around the house
- 13:00 · NoonShort stroll or a bit of training
- 16:30 · AfternoonGentle play or family time
- 18:30 · EveningSecond easy walk
- 21:00 · NightSettles as a calm, cuddly housemate
Family and environment
Kids Good
Gentle and affectionate with considerate children.
Dogs Good
Generally sociable with other dogs.
Cats Good
Usually fine, especially when raised together.
Apartment Conditional
Workable given its calm nature and modest exercise needs.
House with a yard Suitable
A comfortable home suits this laid-back spaniel.
City Conditional
Adapts well to town life with regular walks.
Countryside Ideal
Enjoys sniffing and pottering in the outdoors.
Health data provided by RealVetCost Overall health burden Moderate
Detailed health data - inheritance, prevalence, course, and typical treatment costs - lives in a separate expert database. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice - confirm any decision with your vet.
View the full health profileTop health concerns
Dental Disease Very common; routine brushing and cleanings help
Hip Dysplasia Screen breeding stock; signs often from 1-2 years
Chronic Ear Infections Long, low ears need regular checking and cleaning
Progressive Retinal Atrophy Inherited; DNA test available
Similar breeds - by reason
Not visually similar - similar in what they mean for you.
Another heavy-set, mellow, slow-moving spaniel
Clumber Spaniel
A heavy, mellow gundog that is calmer than most spaniels - affectionate and good with families, but a drooler that gains weight easily.
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Close relative with a similar calm nature
Field Spaniel
A calm, affectionate spaniel that suits a family wanting a moderate gundog, though the coat and ears need routine care.
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More common, more active spaniel alternative
Cocker Spaniel
A soft, people-oriented companion spaniel wearing a show coat that demands professional-level grooming.
View profile →Frequently asked questions
How much does a Sussex Spaniel cost?
The Sussex Spaniel is one of the rarer spaniels, with only a small number of litters each year, so expect a waitlist and puppies commonly running about $1,500-$2,500 in the US. The purchase price is just the start. Over an 11-13 year life, food, grooming, routine vet care, and treating age-related issues typically add several thousand dollars, so budget for the full lifetime cost.
Are Sussex Spaniels good family dogs?
Yes. They are known for being calm, affectionate, and gentle, which makes them good companions for families with considerate children. They are more laid-back than most spaniels and enjoy being part of the household. They still need daily walks, regular grooming, and patient training.
How much exercise does a Sussex Spaniel need?
Less than many sporting breeds. A couple of moderate daily walks with some sniffing time usually keep it happy. It is prone to putting on weight, though, so consistent exercise and careful feeding matter to keep it healthy. It is not a candidate for endurance running or high-intensity sport.
Are Sussex Spaniels easy to train?
They are willing but can be stubborn and slow to mature, so training takes patience and consistency. Positive, reward-based methods work best. Do not expect the fast, eager responsiveness of some other spaniels; the trade-off is a calmer, more easygoing dog once it settles into adulthood.