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The Sussex Spaniel: A Rare Gem Among Spaniels

Side view of Sussex Spaniel Dog playing on grass field on sunny day

 

Introduction

In the rich tapestry of dog breeds that have graced our world, the Sussex Spaniel stands as a rare and cherished gem, known for its distinctive appearance and charming personality. This breed, though relatively unknown to many, has a fascinating history, unique characteristics, and a striking appearance that sets it apart from other spaniels. In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the world of Sussex Spaniels, uncovering their rich history, breed group, size, coat, colour, and appearance. Additionally, we will address the intriguing questions of why Sussex Spaniels are so rare and what sets them apart from their close relatives, the Clumber Spaniels.


Breed History

The Sussex Spaniel, as the name suggests, hails from the county of Sussex in England. Its origins can be traced back to the early 19th century when it was developed as a specialised spaniel for hunting game birds, particularly pheasants. This breed is believed to have descended from the now-extinct Field Spaniel, which was crossed with the Bloodhound, Clumber Spaniel, and possibly the Sussex Retriever to achieve its distinctive traits.

The breed's development was primarily influenced by a dedicated enthusiast named Augustus Elliott Fuller, who is often credited with shaping the modern Sussex Spaniel. Fuller's breeding efforts were focused on producing a spaniel that could work effectively in the dense under-brush and marshes of Sussex, making them exceptional retrievers. His careful breeding efforts led to the establishment of the Sussex Spaniel breed as we know it today.


Also Known As

The Sussex Spaniel is also known as the Sussex by lovers of the breed.


Breed Group and Size

The Sussex Spaniel belongs to the gun-dog group, specifically the spaniel subgroup. Gun-dogs are known for their hunting and retrieving abilities, making them valuable companions for hunters. Sussex Spaniels, in particular, are classified as a "flushing spaniel," meaning they were trained to locate game birds and flush them out of their hiding spots for hunters.

In terms of size, Sussex Spaniels are compact and robust dogs. On average, they stand about 34 to 39 cm tall at the shoulder and weigh between 16 to 20 kg. This size allows them to navigate dense terrain effectively while being sturdy enough to retrieve game.


Breed Coat, Colour, and Appearance

One of the most distinctive features of the Sussex Spaniel is its luxurious coat. They have a dense, silky, and slightly wavy coat that is feathered on their ears and tails. The coat is typically glossy and can come in various shades of golden liver, with a rich mahogany hue being the most desirable. The breed's trademark coat colour is often described as "sunset gold," which adds to its unique charm.

The Sussex Spaniel's appearance is characterised by a compact body with a moderately long back and a slightly rounded skull. They have expressive eyes that are dark brown and convey a gentle and intelligent expression. Their ears are low-set, pendulous, and feathered, adding to their endearing appearance. Their tail is set moderately high and is carried horizontally or slightly elevated, creating a distinctive silhouette.


Why are Sussex Spaniels so rare?

One of the most pressing questions surrounding the Sussex Spaniel is why this charming breed is considered so rare. The answer lies in a combination of factors:

  • Historical Decline: Sussex Spaniels, like many other breeds, saw a decline in popularity during the two World Wars. The scarcity of resources and a shift in hunting practises led to a reduced demand for these dogs.
  • Small Breeding Pools: The Sussex Spaniel's limited gene pool is a significant factor. Breeders need to carefully manage breeding programmes to maintain the breed's unique characteristics, which can be challenging due to their rarity.
  • Specialised Purpose: Sussex Spaniels were bred for specific hunting purposes, and as hunting practises evolved, their specialised skills became less in demand.
  • Lack of Recognition: The Sussex Spaniel remains relatively obscure compared to other spaniel breeds. Lack of recognition by major kennel clubs can limit their exposure and breeding efforts.


What is the difference between a Sussex Spaniel and a Clumber Spaniel?

The Sussex Spaniel and Clumber Spaniel are two closely related breeds that often lead to confusion. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences:

  • Size: Sussex Spaniels are generally smaller, with a height range of 34 to 39 cm, whereas Clumber Spaniels are larger, standing between 43 to 51 cm tall.
  • Coat Colour: Sussex Spaniels are primarily known for their golden liver coat with a mahogany tint, while Clumber Spaniels have a predominantly white coat with lemon or orange markings.
  • Temperament: Both breeds are known for their calm and affectionate nature, but Clumber Spaniels tend to be a bit more reserved, while Sussex Spaniels are often described as more outgoing.
  • Purpose: Historically, Clumber Spaniels were used for flushing and retrieving game in dense forests, while Sussex Spaniels were favoured for hunting in the marshy terrain of Sussex.


Conclusion

The Sussex Spaniel may be a rare breed, but it possesses a rich history, distinctive characteristics, and an undeniable charm that make it a cherished companion for those fortunate enough to discover it. While their rarity may be a hurdle, it is also a testament to their uniqueness and the dedication of breed enthusiasts who strive to preserve this remarkable breed. As we appreciate the Sussex Spaniel's elegance and heritage, we also acknowledge its close relative, the Clumber Spaniel, highlighting the subtle differences that set them apart in the world of spaniels. In doing so, we ensure that these breeds, each with its own exceptional qualities, continue to have their place in the tapestry of dog breeds for generations to come.


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