English Springer Spaniel Exercise Needs: How Much, What Kind, by Age

Springers are working sporting dogs — flushers built for sustained field work. Pet Springers need substantial daily output.

Daily exercise guide

Age	Total daily	Intensity
Puppy 8-16 weeks	5 min × age, twice daily	Low
Puppy 4-12 months	30-60 min	Low-moderate
Adult (pet)	90 min	Moderate-high
Adult (working)	2+ hours	High
Senior	60-75 min	Moderate

What makes Springer exercise different

Working drive remains in pets. Match volume to actual workload; don’t under-exercise.

Ear care post-swim. Floppy ears + water = infection trigger. Dry thoroughly.

Allergy / ear cycle. Recurring ear infections often allergy-driven (see Springer Feeding).

Joint protection. Hip dysplasia common; lean weight + appropriate puppy formula.

Best activities

• Long sniff walks.
• Fetch on grass.
• Swimming (with ear care).
• Tracking, scent work.
• Hunting / field trials if access.
• Hiking.

Activities to avoid

• Hot midday walks.
• High-impact agility under 12 months.
• Long swim sessions without ear drying.

Sample weekly schedule

• Daily: 45-60 min walk + 30-min play / fetch / training
• Weekend: longer hike or swim with ear care

What to track in Flok

• Exercise minutes.
• Ear flare-ups.
• Joint stiffness.
• Weight monthly.

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FAQ

Working vs pet Springer exercise needs?

Working: 2+ hr/day with field work. Pet: 90 min/day with mixed activities.

Does my Springer need to swim?

Beneficial but not required. If you do, dry ears thoroughly.

Hunting introduction age?

Field training can start gentle in puppyhood; full work after 12-14 months.

Sources

• AVMA Exercise Guidance
• English Springer Spaniel Field Trial Association
• AKC — English Springer Spaniel

Related

• English Springer Spaniel Feeding
• English Springer Vaccination Schedule
• Cocker Spaniel Exercise
• Golden Retriever Exercise
• German Shorthaired Pointer Exercise

General guide. Last reviewed: 2026-04-28.