Spaniels are affectionate, energetic, and highly intelligent dogs. Their behaviour is shaped by centuries of breeding, close human partnership, and a strong desire to work. While these traits make spaniels excellent companions, they can also lead to behavioural challenges if their needs are misunderstood.
This guide explains why spaniels behave the way they do, how behaviour develops over time, and how owners can manage common issues in a calm, practical way. It focuses on understanding first, rather than correction, and provides a framework for addressing behaviour in everyday life.
The Difference Between Behaviour and Training
Behaviour and training are closely linked, but they are not the same.
- Behaviour refers to how a dog responds to the world around them
- Training refers to the skills and cues we teach to guide behaviour
Many behaviour problems cannot be solved with commands alone. A spaniel that jumps up, barks excessively, or struggles to settle is often responding to emotion, environment, or unmet needs rather than ignoring training.
Understanding behaviour allows training to work more effectively.
Why Spaniels Behave Differently to Other Breeds
Spaniels were bred to:
- Work at close range
- Use their nose constantly
- Move with speed and enthusiasm
- Respond quickly to changing situations
These traits influence behaviour in daily life.
Common breed-related tendencies include:
- High excitement in stimulating environments
- Strong reactions to scent and movement
- Difficulty switching off
- Sensitivity to handler mood and tone
These behaviours are natural, but they must be managed to prevent frustration for both dog and owner.
How Spaniel Behaviour Develops
Behaviour changes throughout a spaniel’s life. Understanding these stages helps prevent unrealistic expectations.
Puppy Behaviour
Spaniel puppies are curious, energetic, and easily over-stimulated.
Common puppy behaviours include:
- Mouthing and chewing
- Short attention spans
- Over-excitement during play
- Frequent nipping when tired
These behaviours are normal and usually improve with structure, rest, and consistent routines.
Adolescent Behaviour
Adolescence is often the most challenging stage.
During this phase, spaniels may:
- Ignore familiar cues
- Become more independent
- React more strongly to distractions
- Appear restless or impulsive
This is not stubbornness. It is a developmental phase that requires patience, calm management, and clear boundaries.
Adult Behaviour
Adult spaniels are generally more settled, but behaviour depends heavily on how well their needs are met.
An adult spaniel may show:
- Calm, focused behaviour when stimulated appropriately
- Frustration or restlessness if under-stimulated
- Over-excitement if routines are inconsistent
Behaviour at this stage reflects the foundations laid earlier in life.
Common Behavioural Challenges in Spaniels
Certain behaviour issues are particularly common in spaniels due to their temperament and instincts.
Over-Excitement
Over-excitement is one of the most frequent concerns.
It may appear as:
- Jumping up
- Spinning
- Vocalising
- Difficulty settling
Over-excitement is often caused by anticipation, frustration, or lack of impulse control rather than “bad behaviour”.
Difficulty Settling
Many spaniels struggle to switch off indoors.
Signs include:
- Pacing
- Constant following
- Inability to relax
- Seeking attention repeatedly
Teaching calmness is a behavioural process, not just a training exercise.
Barking and Vocalisation
Spaniels may bark due to:
- Excitement
- Alerting behaviour
- Frustration
- Anxiety
Understanding the reason for barking is essential before attempting to reduce it.
Chewing and Destructive Behaviour
Destructive behaviour often occurs when:
- Mental stimulation is lacking
- A dog is left alone without preparation
- Anxiety is present
Chewing is a natural behaviour, but it must be directed appropriately.
Reactivity to People or Dogs
Some spaniels become reactive due to:
- Over-arousal
- Lack of early socialisation
- Negative experiences
- Frustration on the lead
Reactivity is an emotional response and requires careful management rather than correction.
The Role of Mental Stimulation in Behaviour
Physical exercise alone is rarely enough for spaniels.
Mental stimulation helps:
- Reduce frustration
- Improve focus
- Encourage calm behaviour
- Prevent destructive habits
Effective mental outlets include:
- Scent-based activities
- Structured play
- Problem-solving tasks
- Gundog-style exercises
Meeting mental needs is one of the most effective ways to improve behaviour.
How Environment Influences Behaviour
A spaniel’s behaviour is shaped by their surroundings.
Environmental factors include:
- Noise levels
- Routine consistency
- Access to rest
- Household activity
- Outdoor stimulation
Small changes to environment often produce noticeable improvements in behaviour.
Managing Behaviour Without Punishment
Punishment often suppresses behaviour without addressing the cause.
A behaviour-led approach focuses on:
- Prevention
- Redirection
- Teaching alternative behaviours
- Reducing stress and arousal
This approach builds trust and produces more reliable long-term results.
When Behaviour and Training Overlap
Training supports behaviour by:
- Improving communication
- Providing structure
- Reducing confusion
However, behaviour must be addressed alongside training, not replaced by it.
For structured skill development, see:
→ /spaniel-training/
When to Seek Behavioural Support
Professional help may be needed if:
- Behaviour is escalating
- Anxiety is involved
- Aggression is present
- Safety is at risk
A qualified behaviourist should assess the underlying cause rather than offering generic solutions.
Building a Behaviour-Friendly Routine
Spaniels thrive on predictability.
A good routine includes:
- Regular exercise
- Mental stimulation
- Rest periods
- Calm handling
- Clear expectations
Consistency reduces stress and improves behaviour naturally.
Final Thoughts on Spaniel Behaviour
Spaniel behaviour is best understood, not corrected. When owners recognise the emotional and instinctive drivers behind behaviour, problems become easier to manage and often resolve themselves.
With the right environment, appropriate stimulation, and calm guidance, spaniels develop into balanced, responsive companions. Behaviour is not something to “fix”, but something to shape through understanding and structure.
This guide provides the foundation. From here, each specific behaviour can be explored in more detail to create a calm, well-adjusted spaniel.