How to Teach a English Springer Spaniel Tricks
English Springer Spaniels are highly trainable, eager-to-please dogs with the energy and intelligence to master advanced tricks quickly. Their friendly, obedient nature makes them ideal candidates for fun trick training—from simple foundations like shake to complex chains. However, their enthusiasm and tendency to jump require patient, consistent positive reinforcement. This guide harnesses their natural eagerness while channeling their 4/5 energy level into productive training sessions. With their strong recall challenges (scent-driven instincts) and over-attachment tendencies, training sessions become bonding time that strengthens your relationship. By building tricks progressively and rewarding generously, you'll keep your Springer mentally stimulated and physically satisfied, reducing unwanted barking and excitable behavior.
Step-by-step
- 1
Build a Strong Foundation with Sit and Down
Start with reliable sit and down commands using high-value treats. English Springer Spaniels respond exceptionally well to food rewards and your enthusiasm. Practice for 5–10 minute sessions, 2–3 times daily, ensuring your Springer masters these before progressing to complex tricks.
- 2
Teach Shake as Your First Trick
With your dog sitting, hold a treat near their chest and wait for them to paw at your hand—this comes naturally to Springers. The instant their paw touches your hand, mark with 'yes!' and reward immediately. Repeat daily, gradually introducing the verbal cue 'shake' until they respond on command.
- 3
Progress to Roll Over with Patience
Once shake is solid, teach roll over by luring your dog onto their side with a treat, then gently over their hip. Break this into stages: lying down, turning to the side, then completing the roll. Celebrate small progress to keep your energetic Springer motivated and prevent frustration.
- 4
Chain Tricks Together for Advanced Sequences
Combine learned tricks—e.g., sit → shake → down → roll over—using a consistent hand signal or verbal cue. Train chains in short, energetic sessions to match your Springer's high energy level. Start with two tricks linked, then gradually add more as confidence builds.
- 5
Manage Jumping and Excitability During Training
Reward calm behavior generously to counter your Springer's jumping tendency. If your dog jumps during training, turn away and wait for all four paws on the ground before engaging. This teaches that calm behavior earns attention and rewards—critical for over-attached dogs prone to excitable behavior.
- 6
Establish Consistent Training Routines
Train during part of your daily 75-minute exercise routine to channel energy productively. Use the same location, time, and rewards to build reliable habits. Consistency appeals to your Springer's obedient temperament and helps counteract recall challenges by reinforcing focus on you.
Pro tips
- Use scent-driven motivation: Hide treats in your closed fist and let your Springer's nose find them, then reward opening—this harnesses their natural retrieving instinct and keeps their focus locked on you during training.
- Keep sessions energetic and fun to match their 4/5 energy level; monotone repetition bores Springers and increases jumping and barking. Use high-pitched praise, quick treats, and playful hand signals to maintain engagement.
- Practice trick chains during periods when your dog's recall challenges are lowest—immediately after exercise when they're calm and mentally settling. Avoid chaining tricks when they're amped up or scent-driven.
Frequently asked questions
My English Springer Spaniel gets distracted by scents during training. How do I improve focus?+
Use higher-value treats (cheese, chicken) that compete with environmental scents, and train indoors or in quiet spaces initially. Build duration gradually—short 5-minute sessions teach focus better than long ones. Practice on a leash to prevent wandering, and reward heavily when your Springer chooses to look at you over following a scent.
How often should I train, and how long should sessions be?+
Aim for 2–3 sessions of 5–10 minutes daily, aligned with your Springer's 75-minute exercise needs. Short, frequent sessions suit their high energy and prevent boredom. Always end on a positive note with a trick they know well to build confidence and enthusiasm.
My dog jumps excitedly when I get the treats out. What should I do?+
Don't reward jumping; instead, ignore it by turning away until all four paws are on the ground, then reward calm behavior. This is especially important for over-attached Springers seeking attention. Be patient—consistency teaches that calmness, not jumping, earns your focus and rewards.
Can I train tricks if my Springer hasn't exercised yet?+
Springers with pent-up energy become unfocused and jumpy. Always exercise your dog first—a 30-minute walk or run helps them settle mentally. Training after exercise yields better concentration and makes positive reinforcement more effective. A tired Springer is a trainable Springer.