Spaniel Survival Guide

Spaniels are some of the most popular dog breeds, fulfilling working and companion roles in society. While spaniels are typically sociable, outgoing, optimistic and friendly, they have retained many traits reflective of their working gundog origins, such as hunting, retrieving, speed and stamina. These remain essential for working Spaniels, but for Spaniels and their caregivers who find themselves in a more domestic situation, these traits can sometimes prove challenging. This book is an essential guide for anyone who lives with or is thinking about living with spaniels and wants to understand them more. Written by a canine scientist with decades of experience with cocker spaniels, this book explores the origin, care, management and training of spaniels. It considers how to develop a responsive and supportive relationship with your spaniel, and examines practical and fair training approaches to support health, welfare and behaviour in a clear and accessible way.

Dr Jacqueline Boyd lectures, coaches and consults on all aspects of canine science to students and canine caregivers. She is a member of The Association of Pet Dog Trainers and a registered Animal Training Instructor with the Animal Behaviour and Training Council. Training her six cocker spaniels in a range of canine activities, including agility, canine freestyle and gundog work, for over twenty years has given her a robust understanding of the practical realities of life with spaniels. The importance of effective, kind and fair management and training to support health and wellbeing, as well as ensuring a great relationship with their family, is integral to Jacqueline's work and training philosophy.