Whilst spaniel dogs are considered medium size overall versus other dog breeds (line up a spaniel with a great dane and you’ll see what we mean!) below is an overview of the larger spaniel dog breeds. We also have an additional guide If you’re interested in understanding the smaller spaniel dog breeds. Spaniel dogs are an incredibly popular breed in many countries including UK, US and Australia and many more.

Many owners are drawn to larger spaniels for several reasons:

• Intelligent and trainable – Larger spaniel breeds are known for their quick learning abilities and eagerness to please, making them highly responsive to training.
• Affectionate and loyal – These dogs are renowned for their affectionate nature and strong loyalty to their families. Larger spaniels often form close bonds and are excellent companions, fitting well into active family life.
• Active – Larger spaniels, such as Springers, typically have higher energy levels and require more daily exercise and regular walks compared to their smaller counterparts.

For more information on the various spaniel breeds (including the most popular spaniel breed – english cocker spaniel), including details on size, colours, temperament, health considerations, and more, please refer to our breeds information section, which covers all 12+ spaniel dog breeds as well as additional spaniel mixed and cross breeds.

Clumber Spaniel

The Clumber Spaniel is the largest among the AKC flushing spaniels. Renowned for its dignified and mellow temperament, this breed has historically been a favoured hunting companion of royalty. Their unique charm and capabilities have earned them admiration over the years. In 2022, the Kennel Club recorded 232 Clumber Spaniel registrations in the UK, highlighting the breed’s lasting popularity. The American Kennel Club ranks the Clumber Spaniel 139th out of 200 recognised breeds.

• Size: The Clumber Spaniel is a large and strong breed, despite its shorter legs.
• Weight: 25-38.5 kg (approx. 55-85 pounds).
• Height: 45-50 cm (approx. 17.7-19.7 inches).
• Lifespan: 10-12 years.
• Types: The Clumber Spaniel is the heaviest of the spaniel family and was used to flush game from heavy cover. Its origins are linked to Clumber Park in Nottingham, home of the Dukes of Newcastle

Check out our extended article on the Clumber Spaniel Dog Breed

Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is one of the UK’s most popular dog breeds, ranking just behind the Cocker Spaniel in popularity and enjoying a strong international reputation as an exceptional gun dog. In 2022, the Kennel Club recorded approximately 9,000 English Springer Spaniel registrations in the UK, making it the second most registered breed after the Labrador Retriever. Meanwhile, the American Kennel Club ranked the breed 26th out of 287 dog breeds in the United States for the same year.

• Size: medium
• Weight: 18-25kg
• Height: up to 56cm
• Lifespan: 10-14 years
• Types: working and show varieties

Check out our extended article on the Springer Spaniel Dog Breed

boykin spaniel

The Boykin Spaniel, with its distinctive liver-brown coat, is more than just a striking companion—it’s a breed rooted in South Carolina’s hunting traditions and has seen a notable rise in popularity. Originally bred in the early 1900s to retrieve wild turkeys and waterfowl from the swamps, the Boykin Spaniel was developed for versatility, excelling both in the field and as a family pet. Its reputation as a capable and adaptable dog helped it gain recognition from the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2009.

In recent years, the Boykin Spaniel’s popularity has surged. According to AKC registration statistics, it climbed from 108th in 2014 to 65th in 2024 among all recognized breeds, reflecting its growing appeal among dog enthusiasts nationwide. For comparison, the Labrador Retriever, a perennial favourite, was ranked as the second most popular breed in both 2022 and 2024, maintaining its status as a top choice for American families.

• Size: Medium size breed
• Weight: Males 14-18 kg (approx.30 to 40 pounds), females weighing between 11-16 kg (approx 25 to 35 pounds)
• Height: Males 41-46 cm (approx 16 to 18 inches), females typically being 36-41 cm (approx 14 to 16 inches).
• Lifespan: 10 to 15 years.
• Types: The Boykin Spaniel is a medium-sized sporting dog breed native to South Carolina. It is known for its floppy ears, sturdy body, and liver-brown fur on its wavy, waterproof double coat.

Check out our extended article on the Boykin Spaniel Dog Breed