The Sussex Spaniel is one of the earliest developed spaniel breeds and one of the rarest. Built to be a slow-steady endurance hunter, it has a long, low and sturdy frame, similar to the Clumber Spaniel.
No more than 38 cm tall, Sussex Spaniels are never-the-less strong and heavy-boned. Their medium-length coat is thick and can be wavy, with feathering and is of a rich golden liver. They have the classic spaniel head with long wavy ears and kind trusting eyes, and at odds with their cheerful nature, they have a delightful frowning expression. Sussex Spaniels are calm, even-tempered dogs, who exhibit occasional clownish behaviour. Their fun yet placid nature makes them excellent family pets and they will get on well with children, other dogs and household pets. Plenty of walks are required to keep this breed happy and healthy. Given the right amount of activity, this breed is very happy to lounge around at home in the company of its family.
History
The Sussex Spaniel is one of the earliest developed land spaniels. Bred in Sussex in 1792 by Augustus Fuller of Rosehill Park, near Hastings in Sussex as a spaniel that could work in the dense undergrowth of his local terrain, which was low to the ground and powerfully built with a thick protective skin.
