Sussex Spaniel Breed Description

An Owner's Sussex Spaniel Description
Clay, red clay, molded into something no one could have imagined. Clay transformed from uncontrolled energy into a calming force each time I hold him close. Sometimes anxiety comes in on me with such a rush, with no warning. I'll be feeling good one minute, but my mind turns into an internal windstorm of chaos the next moment. Then I look to Clay to help me find the peace I've lost.

My beloved Spaniel, Clay; before him, there were times I thought I would have to live on one medication or another - or dozens of them - forever. Panic attacks, loneliness, insecurities, anxiety and damaged nerves were the things I had to suffer through every day, unless I was willing to live in the stupor the medications produced to keep them at bay.

Then a dear friend of mine brought me a red puppy and said, "From now on, this will be your medicine." I don't suppose I responded with glee, but Clay looked up at me with those big hazel eyes and I thought to myself, what could it hurt? Thanks to some obedience and therapy training, Clay rapidly learned to recognize the signs in me that would precede anxiety and panic attacks. His whole demeanor would change and he would transform himself into this wonderful caregiver. He knew how to transfer his calm heart into my very being and all thoughts of despair would go away just as quickly as they came on.

Well, Clay isn't a pup anymore; he has grown old, just as I have. But his ability to watch over me hasn't diminished even a little bit. My emotional and psychological problems are not nearly as bad as they once were, but Clay never lets his guard down. He is just as ready to help me feel better as he ever was. And even when I'm not in a crisis, just having him around makes the sun shine for me, no matter what the weather really is inside or out.

 

Introduction

This breed is native to England where it was used for hunting and as a family companion. It has great retrieving ability and can be trained easily. Medium-sized, this spaniel can weigh up to 45 lbs. The Sussex has a medium long, shaggy coat. This well mannered dog is great for family companionship or as a hunter's dog.

Colors

There is only one acceptable tint for the Sussex spaniel, which is considered the mark of a pure breed. It is a rich golden red color with a tinge of gold at the tips. If there are any whites on it, then it is not a real Sussex spaniel.

Living Area

Sussex Spaniels can adapt to both the indoors and the outdoors. And they can very well live in apartments as well. However, they are characteristically active dogs, and they should be given sufficient exercise as they tend to gain weight fairly quickly. As one of the spaniel breeds, they feel more comfortable when they are in the outdoors, but they can be equally happy inside the house. Sussex spaniels can also live in a doghouse located in the garden or backyard, but it is essential to ensure that they have a temperate place to sleep. Even an undersized backyard will do, with a little space for them to walk about.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, NKC, NZKC, ACR

Pets4You offers listings of Sussex Spaniel breeders with puppies for sale.